One of the great things about living in an inner city neighbourhood is the abundance of things that can catch your attention and spark your curiousity. They’re the eclectic shops, eateries and office doors of local businesses that line the streets and reflect Calgary’s entrepreneurial spirit.

According to the Calgary Chamber, “small businesses currently account for 95 percent of all business activity in the province.” A small business can vary in size but typically have less than 50 employees in total and are privately owned. In 1979, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) “organized a week of activities for entrepreneurs” which has evolved years later into Small Business Week.

This annual series of events and workshops are dedicated to supporting and connecting small business owners. This year’s Small Business Week, October 15th – 19th will be no exception. The Small Business Week Awards are the main event, recognizing the year’s most distinguished small businesses. A panel of judges carefully select top nominees from the many nominations made by the general public. Calgarians vote again, nominating award recipients in their respective category.

2012 Award Categories include:

- Environmental Stewardship Award

- Customer Service Excellence Award

- Community Involvement Award

- Innovation Award

- Breakout Business Award

- RBC Small Business of the Year Award

To learn more about Small Business Week, check out:

http://www.smallbusinessweekcalgary.com/

Discuss on Twitter:

#SBWYYC