Thank you for continuing to tune in to our weekly COVID-19 updates. As many programs have been set in place, we will be shifting our COVID-19 updates to be integrated in our regular weekly newsletter which will continue to appear in your inbox every Tuesday morning.
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ON THE LOCAL & PROVINCIAL FRONTS |
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Changes to Gatherings & Events Order from Public Health Officer |
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Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has released a new public order for Gatherings and Events. Some of the changes in the new Gatherings and Events order include, but are not limited to: a confirmation of the oral order limiting social gatherings in private residences to 6 plus occupants of the residence; clarification that preceding or following the event, all attendees must disperse, and changes the requirement for one-hour cleaning between events to become outcome oriented.
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Kelowna Chamber Annual Member Satisfaction Survey Goes Live on Monday |
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Your Chamber team recognizes this has been a challenging year for many within the Chamber network but as we continue our efforts to help you and the business community recover from the impact of COVID-19, we remain committed to continual improvement. On Monday we will be sending out our 2020 Annual Member Satisfaction survey. We have included some questions regarding how COVID-19 is impacting your business, and how we can best support you over the coming months and into 2021. By completing the survey, you will be entered to win one of four $150 VISA cash cards. Keep your eyes on your inbox on Monday for the survey.
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Registration is OPEN: Business Development Program for Resilience & Recovery |
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Does your business need assistance mitigating the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic? We've launched an exciting new program in partnership with the BC Chamber aimed at giving you access to a world class professional business development program. If you have a professional designation that requires continual educational credits, this program is certified.
The Building Resilience Program will have weekly seminars for 6 weeks through the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, and will be offered in two more cohorts until the end of March 2021. This program will provide you insights into how to adapt your business model, re-engage customers, and adjust workplace cultures to help position you for long-term success. Space is limited. 50% off for Chamber Members!
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$5,000 Grants Available Through Small Business Relief Fund; Show Your Local Love |
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Last week, applications became available again for grants under the Canada United Small Business Relief Fund. Created and launched by RBC, Canada United is a national movement to support local businesses in communities across the country.
The $5,000 grant can be used towards purchases that are eligible for reimbursement under the program, such as:
- Purchase of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Renovation of space to adhere to re-opening guidelines
- Enhancement of website / developing e-commerce capabilities
The program also continues to encourage us to 'Show Local Some Love' and continue to support our local economies through shopping, dining, and staying local.
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Government Introduces Legislation for New, Targeted Support to Help Businesses Through Pandemic |
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The government is taking targeted action to support Canadians and Canadian businesses, non-profits and charities that continue to face uncertainty and economic challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, introduced Bill C-9, An Act to Amend the Income Tax Act (Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy), which would implement new, targeted support to help hard-hit businesses.
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New Measures Available to Help Canadian Small Businesses Access Global Markets |
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On Tuesday, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced new actions to help Canadian businesses grow while navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in the global marketplace through the CanExport SME program. Originally launched in 2016, the program is pivoting to help small businesses build a sustainable and resilient recovery.
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Announced: New Mandatory Requirements for Travelers to Canada |
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As part of Canada’s efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19, all travelers are required to provide specific information upon and after entry into Canada. This includes requirements to provide a quarantine plan and contact and travel information.
The Government of Canada introduced ArriveCAN in April 2020 to create a secure and user-friendly way to help travelers comply with these border measures. Earlier this week, the Government of Canada announced new mandatory requirements for travelers to Canada.
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Destination Canada Provides Insights into the Future of Business Events in Canada |
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Between August 4th and 24th, Destination Canada conducted a series of online surveys targeting international (US and other countries) event organizers in the association, corporate, and incentive market segments, resulting in an updated Business Events Planner Pulse Check. The objective was to update insights gained from focus groups conducted in May and look for signs of industry recovery. Survey highlights show Canada as a destination of choice, and highlight that planners are looking to Canada for booking incentive programs in the future.
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Chief Economist Trevin Stratton: “The Long Road Ahead: Canada Must Recoup 100,000 New Businesses To Fully Recover” |
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Last week's economic numbers demonstrated that Canada is facing a prolonged K-shaped recovery. The economy did not contract as much as expected during the first wave of COVID-19 but, with the second wave in full effect, Canada's economic recovery will take much longer than initially anticipated, particularly for the hardest hit sectors.
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Need to add someone else in your organization to our mailing list? Email us.
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KELOWNA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | kelownachamber.org |
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