January 12, 2016, FREDERICTON (GNB) – Premier Brian Gallant spoke to a number of bankers in Fredericton today to discuss conditions for New Brunswick businesses to gain access to capital.

“The old days of government automatically giving money to businesses are done,” said Gallant. “We need the private sector to step up to help our entrepreneurs access capital. We need the private sector to help all businesses including start-ups, small businesses, and rural businesses access capital.”

At the summit, Gallant spoke about the importance of helping different groups with access to capital.

Gallant said the government is focused upon creating the right environment for economic growth by investing in developing a skilled workforce, infrastructure and innovation.

In addition, the province has lowered the small business tax and will continue to do so until it is the lowest of any province east of Manitoba, and has increased the Small Business Investor Tax Credit to create capital for small businesses and start-ups.

This meeting was one of a series of Opportunities Summits that are taking place around the province to identify new prospects for creating jobs and economic growth. The opportunities identified will be reviewed and evaluated for development as part of an economic action plan for the province.

Banks urged to increase access to capital

MEDIA CONTACT(S):

Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn, communications specialist, Opportunities NB, 506-453-5980.