"CFDCs act as catalysts for economic and business development by offering communities and businesses essential guidance and services," says Mr. Speller. "With the support of the Government of Canada, the Norfolk District Business Development Corporation can continue to stimulate the local economy." The  Norfolk CFDC is one of 58 Community Futures Development Corporations in rural Ontario funded by Industry Canada’s Community Futures Program. It delivers a wide variety of programs and services to support community economic development and small business growth.

This week, Canada is saluting the important contribution small and medium-sized businesses make to our economy with the celebration of Small Business Week (October 19-25), an initiative of the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). On October 24, rural Ontario communities will give special recognition to Community Futures Development Corporations and the valuable services they offer local entrepreneurs and business owners with the celebration of CFDC Day.

In the last five years, Ontario CFDCs, through their investment and business counselling activities, invested more than $185 million to help the small business sector create or maintain 22,401 jobs. Last year, the Norfolk CFDC invested $1.6 million and assisted in creating 202 jobs, contributing to an enhanced business community.

"The Government of Canada believes that the residents of Norfolk County can best identify their own economic and business priorities," says Mr. Mitchell. "This funding will enable the Norfolk CFDC to build upon the strengths of the regional economy and create jobs."

"We are eager to continue assisting local entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized businesses in accessing the capital, information and resources they need to be successful," says Ken Sheppard, president of the Norfolk County CFDC. "Our organization is pleased to play a key role in the future prosperity of the region."

Through this initiative the Government of Canada is acting on its commitment to support economic growth and diversification in rural communities.

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This news release is also available on the Internet at: http://fednor.ic.gc.ca