We did consult with committee and the direction we had was to focus on the small communities and there was no indication at that time that we should be giving all of our money to established businesses. In our view, we are providing funds to the people that we were asked to focus on, which was in the smaller communities, the smaller businesses. In 2008-2009 the SEED program expenditures totalled $1.8 million and the funds grew to $2.9 million which was distributed to 437 approved applicants. Of this, 48 percent went directly to entrepreneurs including business corporation proprietors and other forms of business and $1 million, or 34 percent, went to programs that support community economic development in strategic sector investments. I’d like to point out that this funding has proven popular for promoting community investment and trade, and $520,000, or 18 percent, was approved for community-based economic development which was comprised of traditional economy expenditures in the micro-business category as well as community event spending. This year, for example, or to date, the demand for SEED program assistance has been significant. We’ve approved 431 applicants for $3 million and 42 percent has gone to entrepreneurs. I don’t know how much higher the Member would like us to go in that area.
Bob McLeod on Committee Motion 29-16(4): Transportation, Highways – Geotechnical Assessments On Gravel Roads, Carried
In the Legislative Assembly on February 17th, 2010. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 29-16(4): Transportation, Highways – Geotechnical Assessments On Gravel Roads, Carried
Consideration in Committee of the Whole of Bills and Other Matters
February 16th, 2010
See context to find out what was said next.