Ottawa, February 9, 2010: Today, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce released a report that identifies the need for the government to do more to help small business adopt information and communications technology (ICT).

Powering Up the Network: A Report on Small Business Use of E-Business Solutions in Canada benchmarks Canada’s current progress in ICT and e-commerce adoption among small businesses, and provides concrete recommendations for government and business to work hand-in-hand to get Canada back on top. Over 900 businesses from across Canada responded to the survey that determined how businesses were using the internet, what business-to-business transactions were taking place, and how small businesses protect their networks. This report builds on the recommendations outlined in a June 2009 Canadian Chamber report entitled: Mapping the Future of the Digital Economy: Key to Canada’s Economic Success.

“Many small businesses are using the internet and have a website, but not enough are taking advantage of business-to-business solutions”, says Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. One of the key recommendations in the report is for the government to create a National ICT Strategy. “The Canadian Chamber has called on the government to set up this strategy and a council of stakeholders for many years,” Beatty continued. “We were a world leader in e-commerce and ICT adoption, but we’ve slipped and need to get back on track. Other countries continue to invest and make ICT a priority - it’s a fact that investments in ICT can be a significant driver of productivity”.

The report, available here, also points to successful international best practices for small businesses in e-business solutions.

- 30-

Contact:
Kathryn Anderson
Director, Communications and Marketing
Office: 613.238.4000 ext. 231
Cell: 613.797.1860