The Honourable Harinder Takhar
Minister of Small Business and Entrepreneurship

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Harinder Takhar was sworn in as the first Minister of Small Business and Entrepreneurship on May 23, 2006.

Takhar is no stranger to the small business sector having held leadership positions with several Canadian companies, including AGRA Industries Limited, Linear Technology Inc./Gennum Corporation and Timex Canada Inc. 

He served as the President and CEO of the Chalmers Group of Companies until his election to the Ontario Legislature in October 2003.

A tireless volunteer and community supporter, Mr. Takhar received the 2001 Community Service Award from the Society of Management Accountants of Ontario for “demonstrating selflessness and kindness for the benefit of society.”

In addition to a term as chair of the United Way of Peel Region, Mr. Takhar has served as chair and member of the board of governors of the Credit Valley Hospital, and associate director and chief financial officer of the Peel District School Board.  He is also a founding member of the International Punjabi Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. Takhar holds a Master's degree in economics and political science, and an undergraduate degree in English, economics and political science.  He is also a Fellow of the Society of Management Accountants of Canada. 

Residents of Mississauga for over 30 years, Mr. Takhar and his wife Balwinder have two daughters.