OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Nov. 27, 2012) - The Honourable Tony Clement, President of the Treasury Board, today welcomed Startup Canada's efforts to support entrepreneurship at an Ottawa event where the grassroots organization unveiled the results of a six-month national tour aimed at bringing together entrepreneurs across the country.

"Entrepreneurship is the backbone of Canada's success and the key to our continued growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Clement. "I commend Startup Canada's efforts to tap into this incredible resource and celebrate our entrepreneurial achievements. We don't do it nearly enough."

Supporting entrepreneurship and innovation is a key Government priority. Under Economic Action Plan 2012, the Government committed to doubling the funding for the Industrial Research Assistance Program to $220 million. This program supports research and development projects that stimulate innovation. This accelerates the growth of small and medium-sized Canadian businesses.

Minister Clement also unveiled the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan in October, an ambitious red tape cutting exercise which frees up businesses from costly and unnecessary regulatory burden so they can focus on what they do best: innovate, invest, grow and create jobs.

"Canada is already recognized as one of the best places in the world to start a business and invest," said Minister Clement. "Our Government will continue to work hard so that entrepreneurs have the optimal conditions to put their drive and ingenuity to work."

Startup Canada is a volunteer-run organization which promotes Canadian entrepreneurship and fosters networks of entrepreneurial communities. Today it published the findings of its six-month national tour, the largest entrepreneurial consultation in Canadian history, which engaged some 20,000 Canadians across 10 provinces. The results can be found at www.startupblueprints.ca.

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