Minister of State Bernier Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week 2013

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 18, 2013) - The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism) (Agriculture), made the following statement to mark the start of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2013, which takes place from November 18 to 24:

"Global Entrepreneurship Week is an international celebration of entrepreneurs who through courage, hard work and determination seize hold of a market opportunity to create jobs and growth in our communities. This week recognizes the remarkable spirit of entrepreneurs of all ages and encourages local, university and business communities that support entrepreneurs to celebrate the contributions that these unsung heroes make each and every day while expanding the culture of entrepreneurship.

"With 7 in 10 private sector jobs in Canada created by small business entrepreneurs, our government recognizes that they are the engines that drive our economic growth. That is why we are working to empower entrepreneurs through our low-tax plan for jobs and growth, putting in place the right conditions for them to succeed.

"Most recently, our government signed the Canada-European Union trade deal, a historic agreement-in-principle that will grant Canadian entrepreneurs access to half a billion new customers and will create thousands of jobs across the country. Additionally, the Speech from the Throne indicated that we will look at providing more tax relief for small business entrepreneurs once the budget is balanced in 2015.

"Economic Action Plan 2013 builds on these actions by expanding and extending the Hiring Credit for Small Business, making it easier for entrepreneurs to create jobs. The plan has also increased the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption, which helps to better ensure their financial security for retirement. Also, our government's Red Tape Reduction Action Plan is reducing barriers to doing business while making the regulatory system easier and more predictable.

"The Canada Youth Business Foundation, the official host of Global Entrepreneurship Week in Canada, continues to do remarkable work helping, guiding and inspiring our next generation of business leaders.

"I invite all Canadians to join me this week in celebrating those who embrace innovation, imagination and creativity through entrepreneurship."