Small Businesses Growing

A number of small businesses are growing in Cape Breton with help from the Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

"Small businesses and organizations are the heartbeat of communities," said Manning MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "Their success is of paramount importance to the economic growth of Nova Scotia's communities and the province as a whole. And here in Cape Breton, there are lots of examples of entrepreneurship at work."

Northern Yacht Club in North Sydney is using a $15,000 loan to renovate. The improved space will be leased to create new revenues for the club and better visitor services.

Ken's Auto Therapy Ltd., a car repair business in Sydney that specializes in European models, is using a $25,000 loan to finance a new facility.

In Glace Bay, Butch's Handyman Service will establish a commercial and residential building repair and snow removal business with a $5,100 startup loan.

And fans of Sydney performer Shauna Lee McKillop will soon be able to enjoy her first CD. A $6,000 loan is helping Shauna finance her first commercial recording.

"Our department's Business Service Centre in Sydney is very active and that reflects the entrepreneurial energy that we've got in this area," said Mr. MacDonald. "When there's a good business idea, our staff is there to support it."

Economic Development and Tourism's Business Service Centres help Nova Scotia companies and entrepreneurs with business planning, access to export training, and development with financial assistance. The department supports projects that grow from local initiative and build on the strengths of communities, creating jobs and increasing exports in the process.