Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, small business is imperative to the Northern economy. Mr. Speaker, this is Business Development Week and across Canada people are highlighting the contribution that businesses make to our country. Mr. Speaker, independent businesses enhance our community's character, quality and the value of services available to residents.
The government distributed a total of $21.5 million in grants and contributions in 2014-2015, almost 20 per cent of that funding went to business and manufacturing support and 17 per cent to business support agencies.
Mr. Speaker, even our smallest communities have local business ventures. Take Kakisa, for example, where Noda Enterprises manages the local store, hotel, gas station, and campground. These services are much needed in the hamlet and offer essentials to residents and visitors. As a territory, we must ensure we support the small business sector and encourage Northern entrepreneurs who have the tenacity and courage to launch an independent business or take on a franchise.
Support the entrepreneurs in economic development contributions, the Business Development and Investment Corporation, and sector-specific funding for ventures that develop the arts, agriculture, tourism and fisheries are examples of some of the ways that GNWT offer support to small businesses.
But how well do these programs work? Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to say that funding was distributed in all 33 communities, proving that there's an interest and uptake. SEED funding was distributed across all sectors from mining, oil and gas, to fine and performing arts. But how do we ensure funding is being used as intended and in ways that gives us the most bang for our buck?
Mr. Speaker, we're duplicating efforts, we're paying staff to deliver workshops using funds that could be allocated to businesses that offer basically the same service. But how do we measure the effectiveness of our investments? Are we getting adequate feedback from entrepreneurs and small business owners to target funding and other resources?
Mr. Speaker, we have some good programs, we have some great entrepreneurs and the NWT offers some of the best opportunities. How are we making the most of that potential? Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.
Masi. Members’ statements. Member for Yellowknife Centre.
