The Canadian Federation of Independent Business believes that 2011 is to be the 'Year of the entrepreneur'.
Small and medium-sized businesses are being challenged to drive the economic recovery by spurring innovation and job growth now that Ottawa is turning off the taps on stimulus funding.
Rob Moore, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism, called on the sector to do its part by designating 2011 the “Year of the Entrepreneur,” stressing the recovery is at a critical juncture.
While eager to praise entrepreneurs as the economy’s unsung heroes, Mr. Moore did not unveil any new programs or initiatives to assist them with either innovation or job creation at Tuesday’s event. Moreover, both he and Ted Menzies, Minister of State for Finance, declined to comment on what new measures smaller businesses could expect in the spring budget.
That prompted some business owners to dismiss the designation as a “fancy title” that lacks teeth, arguing Ottawa must do more to ensure entrepreneurs’ success – especially if they are being charged with propelling economic growth.
“That is what 2011 is going to be about. It’s the time when innovation and continued job creation are moving to the forefront and the private sector steps up to lead the charge,” Mr. Moore said during a media event at Ryerson University in Toronto.
See what else The Canadian Federation of Independent Business has to say at The Globe and Mail.
