What issues matter most today for small businesses? Wondering how small business can cope in a globalised world? Looking for tips on running your business?

The Star will publish a special section on Thursday to mark Small Business Week. The section will look at the successes and hardships of Canadian entrepreneurs and provide tips for those starting or running small businesses.

Also, two small business experts can answer your questions. Catherine Swift, chair, president and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (www.cfib.ca) and Michel Bergeron, vice-president, corporate relations, of the Business Development Bank of Canada (www.bdc.ca) will be online at thestar.com from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday to answer your questions. Send your questions now at thestar.com/smallbiz and return Thursday for selected responses and the online discussion.