COVID-19 Business Supports
The past year has been a challenging time for all of us and particularly stressful for business owners. We've brought together this list with some of the opportunities to help you as a business owner, whether you're looking for funding, learning opportunities, or best practice advice for operating safely.
This list is not a complete list and please be advised that we are doing our best to update this regularly, but changes are fast and frequent. Check back regularly for updates and contact us directly if you need help navigating these: we're here to help you!
Please refer to this website for the most updated information regarding public health and workplace safety: https://www.ontario.ca/page/enhancing-public-health-and-workplace-safety-measures-provincewide-shutdown
Make sure you're also following us on our Do Business Huron-Kinloss page and that you're subscribed to the Business Banner Newsletter so that you don't miss out on any future updates.
Funding Opportunities |
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Deloitte has created a tool to help small businesses find specific funding opportunities to meet their needs. Below are some COVID-19 Supports Quick Reference Sheets (updated in February 2021) that summarize government programs: Federal ProgramsCanada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)Covers 75% of employee's wages retroactive to March 15, 2020. Temporary 10% Wage SubsidyReduction of payroll deductions required to be remitted to CRA from March 18th to June 19th, 2020. Extension of Work-Sharing ProgramExtension of the maximum duration of the Work-Sharing program from 38 weeks to 76 weeks for employers affected by COVID-19. Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP)Additional support through Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC) who are working with private sector lenders to coordinate on credit solutions. Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)Interest-free loan of up to $40,000 to small businesses & not-for-profits; repayment of loan on or before December 31st will result in forgiveness of up to 25%. Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS)Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations, or charities who have seen a drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of their commercial rent or property expenses, starting on September 27, 2020, until June 2021. This program replaced the earlier Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CERCA). Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)Help for businesses and organizations in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, tourism and others that are key to the regions and local economies. Sectoral SupportsThese may not be new offerings but there may have been adjustments to the programs or additional funding due to COVID-19. Provincial ProgramsOntario's Main Street Relief Grant: PPE GrantHelping small businesses with the unexpected costs of PPE. Property Tax and Energy Bill RebatesBusinesses that are, or were, required to shut down or significantly restrict services due to provincial public health measures can apply for rebates, provided in the form of grants, to help with their fixed costs. COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program for Small Business (CEAP-SB)A one time, on-bill credit to eligible small business and registered charity customers to help them catch up on their energy bills and resume regular payments (contact your utility company to apply). Employer Health Tax ReliefIncrease to the exemption for 2020 from $490,000 to $1 million and a five-month relief period for businesses unable to file or remit their provincial taxes on time. Ontario Small Business Support Grant (New January 2021)A grant for small businesses with less than 100 employees who are required to close or significantly reduce services as a result of the lockdown beginning December 26th. Ontario Together ProgramFunds earmarked for retooling or adopting technological changes needed to produce or supply equipment for the healthcare sector or other critical public services. Local ProgramsBusiness Pivot and Adaptation GrantBruce County businesses can access a grant of up to $5,000 to expand, enhance or adapt their existing business. Applications will open again in early 2021. Emergency Business Sustainability LoanLow-interest loans of up to $20,000 are available to help local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Regional Tourism Organization 7 (RTO7) PPE COVID-19 FundsA maximum $1000 grant to tourism operators for PPE. Ontario Tourism Innovation Lab: Spark ProgramMore information to come on this Program in 2021. |
Businesses Start Up and Youth Programs |
Starter Company PlusA hands-on training and mentorship program that gives entrepreneurs an up to $5,000 grant. Futurpreneur CanadaExisting start-up program for individuals ages 18-39 and ready to launch a business; offering financing and mentoring with additional programs for acceleration and business plan support. Student Work Placement ProgramReal-world, hands-on works experience to post-secondary students across Canada. |
Deferrals |
Federal Tax & Duty DeferralsIncome tax deferrals until August 31, 2020; deferral of sales tax (GST/HST) remittance and customs duty payments to June 30th; taxes waived on certain medical goods. WSIB Payment DeferralsEmployers can defer WSIB payments for up to 6 months. |
Learning Opportunities |
Digital Main Street WebinarsA range of webinars designed to help you do business online. Contact NorthOnline programs and courses from Ontario's 24 public colleges, 22 public universities, 9 Indigenous institutes and more. Fanshawe CollegeOffering small class, focused, hands-on skill development with placement opportunities at local employers in the region. |
Expanding Your Businesses Online |
Digital Main Street shopHEREHands-on assistance to set-up and launch your online store. Huron-Kinloss' The HubStaff at The Hub located in Huron-Kinloss is happy to help you expand your business online and assist you with digital marketing. |
Building and Storefront Improvements |
Spruce The BruceApplications are open to grants designed to help you improve your façade, install a patio, perpendicular sign or awning, or collaborate with local businesses. Huron-Kinloss Downtown Improvement Program Our range of grants for businesses in the Community Improvement Plan (CIP) areas can help improve your business. Regional Opportunities Investment Tax CreditTax credit for building, renovating or acquisition of commercial or industrial buildings. |
Best Practice Information and Posters |
Province of Ontario Sector Specific Guidelines & PostersDesigned to help protect workers, customers and the public. Guidelines and resources for businesses, organizations, operators, employees and volunteers. |