My question is for the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. Markham is home to many of the province’s most advanced and innovative businesses. That includes over 650 corporate head offices and over 1,500 tech and life sciences companies.

And now, with the support of this government, advanced manufacturers are joining those ranks, making record investments to create jobs and stay globally competitive. Speaker, will the minister please explain how our government is supporting advanced manufacturers in my riding to invest and remain on the cutting edge of their respective industries?

Speaker, will the minister tell us about how our government is fostering the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to make Markham one of the best places in the province to live, work and grow?

By reducing the cost of business by $8 billion annually, we’re proving that Ontario is open for business. This has led to record investments, with over $17 billion in the auto sector, over $3 billion in life sciences and many more billions in tech.

And we’re bringing new life to manufacturing. In Markham, NOVO Plastics recently announced a more than $10-million investment, creating 30 new jobs, with $1.5 million in support from our government. Speaker, they are an Ontario-made manufacturer of engineered plastic components for the auto sector. With this project, NOVO Plastics will modernize their production process with automation and bring in robotics. This is how we’re ensuring that Markham stays on the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing.

With our Small Business Enterprise Centres, entrepreneurs have all the tools they need to succeed. Markham’s centre is receiving $420,000 to help their small businesses and $92,000 for Starter Company Plus and Summer Company. Now students and young adults are encouraged to start their own businesses. Speaker, Markham and all of Ontario’s entrepreneurs will always have our government in their corner.