"An increasingly diversified and mature economy is taking shape in all regions of the province," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development (INTRD). "Activity is not confined to a single area or industry but spans traditional resource-driven industries and knowledge-based industry sectors. Much of this activity is driven by small business in such sectors as ocean technology, agriculture, life sciences, tourism, and information and communications technologies."

Small Business Week runs from October 20 to 24 and promotes small business development, entrepreneurship and awareness of the vital role small business plays in the economic growth of the province.

"Small businesses are the foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador�s economy," said the Honourable Paul Oram, Minister of Business. "Our province is in an enviable era in which business confidence is high and creativity is thriving. The Provincial Government is committed to making this a better place for small businesses to operate and succeed, by ensuring that regulations are efficient and business-friendly; by making services and information more accessible and reducing the paperwork burden for small businesses; and by putting programs in place that encourage entrepreneurial drive. This week, and throughout the year, we applaud small businesses for their hard work, their determination and their important contribution to our province."

The theme of this year�s Small Business Week, A world without boundaries, open to new markets, complements the Provincial Government�s agenda for small business growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. Recognizing that targeting opportunities beyond the province�s natural boundaries is key for success, many small businesses are actively participating in INTRD-led trade missions to such markets as Ireland, New England, Western Canada, Chicago, and the Southern United States.

"Exporting our products and services to global markets is essential to growing our provincial economy," said Minister Taylor. "Through a comprehensive suite of financial and non-financial programs we are enabling small businesses to become export-ready. We�re also helping our business community take advantage of new opportunities resulting from recently negotiated trade agreements."

INTRD offers programs that provide term loans and equity investments to businesses in strategic growth sectors, and initiatives that help community leaders identify and address challenges facing local businesses.

The Department of Business provides leadership for business development and growth in Newfoundland and Labrador through business attraction, marketing, advisory responsibility related to business support, and regulatory environmental reform.

Please visit www.gov.nl.ca/intrd/ for more information on available programs and services.

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