Government of Canada Showcases Services for SMEs in Windsor

WINDSOR, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 20, 2013) - Today, the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) participated in the information and networking event, Business, Government Services & You presented by Canada Business Ontario. Minister Goodyear discussed the Government of Canada's strong support for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and highlighted investments made through FedDev Ontario to the southern Ontario region.

Today's event brought together all three levels of government, including representatives from 19 government agencies and departments, with the objective of helping SMEs access the services they need to succeed and grow their businesses. Over a hundred SMEs participated in the event, which included a trade show and networking session, as well as four information seminars.

Managed by FedDev Ontario, Canada Business Ontario (CBO) provides SMEs in Ontario with reliable and useful business information from the federal and provincial governments. Business owners and those considering starting a business can obtain information on topics such as financing options, employee management, regulations and tax programs, government programs and services, permits and licences, importing and exporting requirements, and more. All services are provided at no cost.

"The Government of Canada understands that small businesses and entrepreneurs play a crucial role in job creation and Canada's competitiveness," said Minister Goodyear. "We have taken significant action to ensure that a sustainable fiscal situation and a competitive business tax system are in place to create an environment that encourages new investment, growth and job creation."

"The Windsor Essex Small Business Centre is pleased to partner together with CBO to bring this forum to our region, which pulls together a wide variety of government services and programs - conveniently in one location, making it easier for our local small business and entrepreneurs to access the information they need to operate and grow their businesses," said Sabrina DeMarco, Executive Director, Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development, Windsor Essex Small Business Centre. "Together, we are able provide the business community with relevant and timely business information, market research data and other tools they need to start and grow competitive and successful businesses in our region."

Created in 2009, FedDev Ontario supports the southern Ontario economy by building on the region's strengths and creating opportunities for jobs and economic growth. In Budget 2013, the Government of Canada demonstrated its continued commitment to workers, families and communities in southern Ontario with the renewal of FedDev Ontario. Economic Action Plan 2013 provides $920 million over five years for the Agency, starting on April 1, 2014. As part of the renewal, FedDev Ontario will be allocating $200 million over five years for a new Advanced Manufacturing Fund in Ontario. To learn more, please visit www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca or call 1-866-593-5505.

As outlined by the Prime Minister, the Government of Canada remains focused on what Canadians care most about: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and their personal financial security.

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IF THERE IS A DISCREPANCY BETWEEN ANY PRINTED VERSION AND THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS NEWS RELEASE, THE ELECTRONIC VERSION WILL PREVAIL.

This news release is available online at: www.feddevontario.gc.ca.