Statement from Minister Valdez recognizing Small Business Week
OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 20, 2026 /CNW/ — The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), made the following statement today in recognition of Small Business Week:
“Small businesses are the backbone of Canada’s economy. Across every region and sector, they create jobs, deliver essential goods and services, drive innovation and help sustain the communities Canadians call home.
“This Small Business Week, we recognize their contributions and the resilience they demonstrate every day. In a period of global uncertainty, our focus is on what we can control: strengthening our economy, helping businesses succeed and creating the conditions for them to grow.
“Our government is taking action to help small businesses navigate immediate pressures and prepare for the future. We are providing new and expanded support to help businesses manage cash flow, retain workers, invest in productivity and reach new markets. This includes an additional $1.5 billion for the Regional Tariff Response Initiative and $500 million in new liquidity support through the BDC’s Pivot to Grow Program, with eligibility expanded to reach more businesses.
“We are also helping businesses make the investments that will drive Canada’s long-term success. The new Productivity Mega Deduction will lower the cost of investing in equipment and other productive assets, helping businesses modernize, expand capacity and create good jobs. Alongside our efforts to reduce internal trade barriers, cut red tape, expand access to procurement and advanced technologies, and diversify export markets, we are working to make it easier for Canadian businesses to compete and grow.
“Building the strongest economy in the G7 requires the full and equal participation of all Canadians. Renewed support for the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, the Black Entrepreneurship Program and the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program is helping more entrepreneurs build and grow successful businesses. We are also strengthening support for workers and employers, recognizing that investing in people is essential to building productive, competitive businesses.
“Canada’s economic strength depends on the success of its small businesses. By supporting them today and creating the conditions for them to invest, innovate and expand tomorrow, we are building an economy that is more resilient, more competitive and better positioned for the future.
“This Small Business Week, I thank Canada’s entrepreneurs, business owners and workers for everything they contribute to our country. I encourage all Canadians to support the small businesses in their communities and help them continue to thrive.”
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