November 17, 2014 – Ottawa – Global Entrepreneurship Week runs from November 17 to 23.

Global Entrepreneurship Week celebrates the commitment of entrepreneurs and their immense contributions to our well-being, wealth and long-term prosperity. It is also an opportunity for young and aspiring entrepreneurs to connect with the tools and resources they need to bring their fresh ideas to market.

This year’s celebrations, which are being hosted by Futurpreneur Canada, include an array of creative events across the country designed to engage all audiences in entrepreneurial activities, including networking events, panel discussions and interactive workshops. Futurpreneur Canada is a Canadian non-profit organization that provides mentoring and support to aspiring business owners between 18 and 39 years of age.

YPSWA joins Futurpreneurs in celebrating the Global Entrepreneurship Week in separate but parallel events.

Canada recognizes the importance of entrepreneurs to Canada’s prosperity and has taken significant steps to help them grow their businesses and remain globally prosperous and competitive. For example, Canada has reduced taxes, eliminated unnecessary regulatory burdens and red tape, and advanced the Venture Capital Action Plan by providing $60 million over five years to expand the services of business incubators and accelerators.

Canada has also established new Entrepreneur Awards to recognize excellence in this area of business, invested $18 million over two years through the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (now known as Futurpreneur Canada) to build on their success in helping young entrepreneurs succeed, and launched a new Start-Up Visa Program to attract innovative and ambitious international entrepreneurs to Canada.

Canadian Economic Action Plan 2014 further strengthens Canada’s efforts by providing additional support for entrepreneurs. This includes supporting internships in small businesses, increasing mentorship among women entrepreneurs, and attracting immigrants who can provide capital for at-risk investments in Canadian companies. Canada is also increasing access to international markets, including through the Canada-European Union Trade Agreement and the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement.

“To those organizing Global Entrepreneurship Week in Canada events this year, I wish you every success and thank you for shining a light on the opportunities and challenges that our entrepreneurs face on a daily basis. I would also like to thank all Canadian entrepreneurs for using their imagination, drive and know-how to help ensure Canada remains one of the most prosperous countries in the world, said Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper in his address of the Global E Entrepreneurship Week.”