VICTORIA - The government of B.C. is presenting six communities with "B.C.'s Most Small Business Friendly Community" award, which recognizes local policies, projects and programs that support small business.

One community from six of B.C's eight economic regions was selected as a winner. This year's recipients are Kamloops, Nanaimo, Nelson, North Vancouver District, Prince George and Smithers.

Award evaluations are based on local measures that enhance small business competitiveness, recognize the contributions of small businesses to the community and promote climate action plans that support small business.

The award is issued by B.C.'s Small Business Round Table, which was formed in 2005. The round table is made up of small business leaders who represent regions, industries and associations throughout the province.

Quotes:

Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour-

"Small business employs over one million people in B.C., so it's important to recognize when municipalities make it easier for small businesses to thrive in their communities. It was difficult to choose only one winner from each region, and I want to thank all of the communities that presented submissions."

Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Small Business-

"These awards are a great way to recognize communities that go the extra mile to improve their business environment. Small business is a huge economic driver in this province, and the more successful each community is, the more successful the province is as a whole."

Quick Facts:

• Small business is defined as a business with fewer than 50 employees, or self employed without paid help.

• 98 per cent of B.C. businesses are classified as small businesses.

• Small business provides nearly 56 per cent of private-sector jobs, employing over one million people in B.C.

• B.C.'s small business community contributes 29 per cent of the province's Gross Domestic Product.

• B.C.'s Small Business Round Table is responsible for identifying key small business issues and opportunities, providing recommendations to enhance the small business climate in B.C., and promoting small business interests in the province.

Learn More:

For more information on B.C.'s Most Small Business Friendly Community award, visit: http://www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca/Awards/Documents/2012_SBRT_Award_Submissions.pdf

For more information on the Small Business Roundtable, visit: http://www.smallbusinessroundtable.ca/Pages/Default.aspx

The BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
778 679-5667