OCTOBER 21-25, 2024

WHEREAS, Canadian entrepreneurs are the engine that drives our Country’s economy; and

WHEREAS, small and medium- sized businesses are the cornerstone of the Canadian economy. They account for 99.7% of all Canadian companies and employ more than 90% of private sector workers; and

WHEREAS, 96.9% of businesses within the Thunder Bay District are considered “Small Businesses”; and

WHEREAS, Small Business Week has been organized in communities across Canada since 1979; and

WHEREAS, Small Business Week is about creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to share success stories, talk to business experts, exchange innovative ideas and participate in events held across Canada; and

WHEREAS, this year the Small Business Week Committee (comprised of Community partners – Thunder Bay & District Entrepreneur Centre, Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission, The BDC, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Thunder Bay Ventures, Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, Lakehead University, Confederation College, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise, and Annishnawbe Business Professional Association has worked together to host a calendar of 10 events and activities to pay tribute to Thunder Bay and District entrepreneurs.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Ken Boshcoff, Mayor of the City of Thunder Bay, in recognition of this event do hereby proclaim the week of October 21-25, 2024 as Small Business Week. I request we observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. Let’s all celebrate entrepreneurship and its remarkable contribution to Thunder Bay and our country.