Small business owners are applauding a new provincial strategy designed to give them, among other things, a stronger voice in government.
The strategy, announced Tuesday by Premier Jim Prentice, includes giving small businesses easier access information, regulatory guidance, and entrepreneurship support.
The province has set up a website to give small businesses one-stop-shopping for information about available services.
Peter Verhesen, who owns an auto body shop in Calgary, said he hopes it means he’ll have more time concentrating on his business.
“It’s less time I need to spend away from my family, less time spent in the office researching or getting answers so I can generate revenue,” said Verhesen.
But Verhesen said he’d like to see progress on another front.
“Affordable housing for my employees is a concern.. that is something that I know is on the radar with every government. It’s a concern for me because it raises my costs and leaves fewer margins,” he said.
Verhesen agrees rent controls may not be the solution, but he believes the province and city had better find one soon.
Premier Prentice said the province will hold roundtable discussions with small business owners and entrepreneurs twice a year to identify concerns and potential solutions.
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