Toronto, March 23, 2023 – On behalf of our 38,000 small- and medium-sized business members in all sectors across the province, we are encouraged that today’s budget continues the Ontario government’s consistent ‘do no harm’ approach to small business policy. The government clearly understands that not adding any unexpected costs or administrative burdens is critical to helping small businesses get back on their feet and grow.
We appreciate the continued commitment to reduce red tape, address labour shortages and skills development through increased investments in training and micro-credentialing, as well as help manufacturers invest in their businesses. We look forward to reviewing the budget and receiving more details on the programs from government.
We’re glad to see that the government is on the path to balanced budgets. Moving forward, we urge the government to introduce pro-active supports for small businesses, including improving access to the Small Business Tax Rate and Employer Health Tax exemption, and introducing a comprehensive construction mitigation program to complement its ambitious building plans.
It’s important for government to consider that many small businesses in Ontario are still struggling. Over half are experiencing below normal sales and their average COVID-related debt is over $100,000. In addition, small businesses – just like people – are still faced with inflationary cost pressures.
We look forward to continuing our work with the Ontario government on actions to help small businesses succeed.
-Ryan Mallough, Vice President, Legislative Affairs (Ontario)
-Julie Kwiecinski, Director of Provincial Affairs (Ontario)
-Riley Locke, Policy Analyst (Ontario)
For media inquiries or interviews, please contact:
Dariya Baiguzhiyeva, CFIB
647-464-2814
public.affairs@cfib.ca
About CFIB
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members across every industry and region, including 38,000 in Ontario. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca.
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