Small Business Week 2025
For over 45 years, BDC Small Business Week has been a national celebration of entrepreneurship. What began as a local initiative has grown into an event that now brings together more than 10,000 business owners each year from across Canada to exchange knowledge, build connections and recognize the achievements of entrepreneurs in every sector.
Entrepreneurs are more than business leaders—they are innovators and community builders. They create jobs, strengthen local economies and inspire the next generation to pursue bold ideas. Small Business Week provides an opportunity to reflect on these contributions while also preparing for the future.
This year’s theme is The economic revolution is here – get your business ready and it focuses on transformation. Shifting global markets, advances in artificial intelligence and a generational transfer of business ownership are reshaping the business landscape. These changes present both challenges and opportunities, and small businesses are demonstrating the adaptability and vision required to lead through this new era.
We invite you to join in recognizing the vital role small businesses play in shaping East Hants’ economic and social future.
Small Business is Big in East Hants
This Small Business Week, we are proud to recognize and celebrate small businesses across East Hants. From family-owned shops and farms to construction companies and service providers, these businesses are the heart of our local economy. They create jobs, provide essential services and help shape the communities we live in.
Small businesses don’t just generate economic activity — they build connections. They sponsor community events, train apprentices and create opportunities for future generations. As of June 2025, East Hants was home to 659 small businesses employing at least one person across a variety of sectors. Construction leads the way as the largest industry, followed by retail trade, services (excluding public administration) and agriculture.1 Together, these industries represent both the traditional strengths of our region and the new opportunities that continue to emerge.
The East Hants Economic and Business Development team is here to support these businesses every step of the way. We offer free resources and guidance for startups, growing companies and established businesses looking to adapt in a changing economy. Whether it’s navigating regulations, exploring funding opportunities or planning for expansion, our team is ready to help. Visit our support page to learn more about the supports we offer businesses in East Hants.
1Statistics Canada. Table 33-10-1016-01 Canadian Business Counts, with employees, census metropolitan areas and census subdivisions, June 2025.
Resources for Small Businesses
As businesses continue to talk about solutions, here are some resources that may be helpful for your business’ challenges:
Thank You!
Happy Small Business Week to all of our local entrepreneurs and everyone who supports them. Thank you for all that you do for our community.
If you are a small business looking for support as you continue to build your way forward, please contact us.
