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Canada’s New Government Invests $287,500 In Support Of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses In Haldimand/West Lincoln

September 4, 2007

CALEDONIA, Ontario, September 4, 2007 — Haldimand–Norfolk MP, the Honourable Diane Finley, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for FedNor, today announced a federal contribution of $287,500 to the local Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) known as the Grand Erie Business Centre, in support of its ongoing operations for one year.

“This investment of $287,500 from Canada’s New Government will enable the Grand Erie Business Centre to contribute significantly to the prosperity of the region,” said Minister Finley.  “Our government recognizes that small and medium-sized businesses are vital to Canada’s economy, so it is essential we provide services to help foster business growth, job creation and diversification.”

Budget 2007, announced March 19th, introduced a number of key initiatives in support of the small business sector, including:

  • reducing the federal paper burden
  • reducing the tax compliance burden
  • reducing taxes on new business investment

The Grand Erie Business Centre provides services to support local economic development and small business growth, including:  access to capital; business services; community-based projects; and strategic community planning and socio-economic development.

Over the last year, the CFDC invested $1.2 million in small and medium-sized businesses in the region, resulting in the creation or maintenance of 58 full and part-time jobs, and contributing to an enhanced business community.

“This financial support helps us contribute to the growth of small and medium-sized businesses in our region,” said Kaye Spratt, Chair of Grand Erie Business Centre.  “We are pleased to continue helping local businesses and communities achieve their full potential.”

The Grand Erie Business Centre is one of 61 Community Futures Development Corporations in rural and Northern Ontario funded by FedNor’s Community Futures Program.

To find out more about Ontario CFDCs, visit:  http://cfdc-ontario.ic.gc.ca

 

For more information, please contact:

Erik Waddell
Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200

Robert Naud
Senior Communications Officer, FedNor
613-954-3691 or 1-877-333-6673