The Canadian Federation of Independent Business wants small businesses to be on the minds of political parties during the provincial election. CFIB has released the small business election platform, which includes policy suggestions put forward by small businesses across the province. Provincial Affairs Director Elliot Sims explains one of their suggestions falls in line with what many are calling for, and that's getting the province's financial situation under control.

"Today's deficits and spending will turn into tomorrow's taxes if we don't get them under control. Our members are asking for all political parties to put forth a plan to get our provincial deficits under control as quickly as possible, and to limit spending increases to the sustainable benchmark of inflation and population growth."

Sims says they also want to see regulatory burdens facing small businesses and entrepreneurs addressed this election campaign. He says businesses spend extravagant amounts of money keeping up with government regulations, a situation only made worse by a lack of streamlined services.

"Right now in Manitoba it costs small businesses $1.2 billion every year to comply with regulations from all levels of government. What we know is that our members believe 30 per cent of that, or $400 million is simply red tape. That means poor government customer service that makes it longer and hard to comply with government regulations, or multiple departments asking for the same information."

CFIB also wants to see Manitoba as a strong competitor when it comes to the tax climate. Sims says some of the suggestions from their members mirror those that have been said for quite some time by politicians and residents.

"When we ask our members what the most impacftul tax-relief measures that the next provincial government could take to encourage small business investment and job creation, reducing the PST to seven per cent and providing personal income tax relief to Manitoba residents were the top two recommendations."

While CFIB's already reaching out to the province's party leaders, Sims notes local businesses can also do their part. He encourages small business owners to reach out to their local candidates, to ensure all are aware of these suggestions.