A local politician says small businesses play such an important role in rural Alberta’s economy. Central Peace-Notley M.L.A. Todd Loewen is using Small Business Week as an opportunity to thank the entrepreneurs who take the risk to create jobs in the Peace Region, as well as offer important products and services to residents.
“They (small businesses) are so important, especially to rural Alberta. Everywhere you look, we have small businesses; they are such important employers in the community and so valuable to the local economy.” Mentioned Loewen.
He also encourages people to shop locally; not only to support the economy but he believes there is an added benefit to shopping in town versus purchasing online. “When we purchase something from a store, we can visit the owner or manager face-to-face and work something out. When we buy online, that is not always an option. It’s great to do business with that we associate with on a regular basis; that we see at events, or maybe at the hockey rink.”
The Trending 55 Newsroom asked Loewen if there were any measures in the provincial budget, which will be unveiled in the legislature later today. Loewen did not tip his hand on details but did say there will be some items of interest to local entrepreneurs. “We need to get investment back (in Alberta) and the more we get back, the better it is for everyone. A lot of small businesses rely on large corporations for their work. We need to get our economy rolling and that will be the focus of the budget.
Alberta Finance Minister Travis Toews will present the province’s financial blueprint at 3:15 p.m.
– Kenny Trenton, Trending 55 Newsroom.
