Massachusetts is home to more than 615,000 small businesses that employ more than 1.4 million workers

Washington (May 5, 2015) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee issued the following statement commemorating National Small Business Week.

“I want to congratulate all of the 2015 Massachusetts Small Business Week Award Winners: Snap Chef, EMSEAL Joint Systems, LTD, PTS Truck-Trailer-Construction Equipment Supply, Ace Medical Service, Inc., H&S Environmental, Inc., BioSurface , Inc., Bay Colony Development Corp., Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, Berkshire Office, P&S Construction, Cape & Plymouth Business Magazine, and Mabbett & Associates, Inc.

“Our economy works because of small businesses across Massachusetts and the country. Investing in small businesses spurs local economic growth and creates high-quality jobs in the 21^st century.

“As our economy continues to recover, we must level the playing field for women-owned small businesses, for small business contracting opportunities and provide access to capital for small businesses that are at the heart of our local communities.

“The benefits of investing in small business can be seen in Massachusetts and throughout the United States. Combatting climate change is kick-starting clean energy innovation and the cutting edge companies creating the technologies that cut harmful carbon pollution. And we must protect an open and free Internet for innovators, start-ups and other small businesses.

“I commend Small Business Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet and Massachusetts District Director Robert H. Nelson for their tremendous efforts in organizing this year’s National Small Business Week. I look forward to working together to support our small business as they help our workers and families achieve their American Dream.”

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