October 21, 2016, FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers are encouraged to participate in Small Business Week by visiting local independent stores in their communities on Small Business Saturday, October 22.

“Small businesses are a vital part of our economy and our communities,” said Opportunities NB CEO Stephen Lund. “While it is important that we support our local businesses every day of the year, Small Business Saturday gives us the opportunity to show how much we value and admire local entrepreneurs.”

Small Business Saturday is supported by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.

“Behind the front door of every small business you will find stories of courage, determination and hard work,” said Louis-Philippe Gauthier, the federation’s director of provincial affairs. “Small Business Saturday is an opportunity for everyone to show how important these businesses are to our communities across the province.”

The federation represents 109,000 small business owners across the country, including 5,000 in New Brunswick. It advocates on behalf of small businesses to all levels of government and offers resources such as business counselling and discounts on essential services.

Opportunities NB is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. It provides support services for businesses across the province.

MEDIA CONTACT(S):

Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn, communications, Opportunities NB, 506-476-7596.

Louis-Philippe Gauthier, director of provincial affairs, Canadian Federation of Independent Business, 506-961-5706.