Brockton Business Newsletter
October 20, 2020
Community Support Challenge: Are you "All In?"
Small businesses and non-profit groups are the backbone of any community, including ours. You can support them -- and help celebrate Small Business Week -- by participating in the All In Ontario Challenge and bidding on the "Weekend in Walkerton" package.
The package includes over $2,000 in shopping, dining, and spa treatments in Walkerton, plus a golf foursome and an overnight stay in a cabin at the Saugeen Riverbank Campground!
A big thanks to Applus+ Walkerton, the Walkerton Golf and Curling Club, the Saugeen Riverbank Campground and Brockton Mayor Chris Peabody for donating to this package.
All proceeds go to United Way groups in Grey, Bruce and Huron counties to assist those that have lost fundraising opportunities due to COVID-19. Bids close on Oct. 25th at 10 pm.
Bruce County's economic task force wants to hear your feedback on the economic impact of COVID-19 on your business. Please take part in a new Fall survey, which will help us chart a path to economic recovery and growth.
Your opinion is greatly appreciated!
Grants Available for Tourism-Related Businesses
Are you a tourism business struggling to adapt to COVID-19? A new grant program is available to help fund the following:
  • implementing health and safety protocols
  • alterations to accommodate social distancing (eg: patio heaters, dividers between tables)
  • the purchase of large-scale sanitizing equipment such as fogging machines
  • cleaning supplies
  • purchasing and implementing digital tools and operating transformations like virtual queues, timed entry ticketing or contactless check-ins
The COVID-19 Tourism Response Fund provides $250,000 to Bruce County tourism-related businesses in the form of a one-time, non-repayable grant of $2,500-$10,000. Applicants must provide a matching contribution of 20% of the cost. Call 519-799-5750 for info.
Deadline to apply: October 23, 2020.
County Re-Opens Low-Interest Business Loans
Low-interest loans of up to $20,000 are available to help local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bruce County emergency stability loan program re-opened recently, making $360,000 available on a first come, first served basis.
The loans are to be used for cash flow and working capital, and are being offered at 2.5% interest, with no payments for six months and flexible repayment options. Apply through the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation.
Brockton Facade Grants Still Available
Interested in sprucing up your storefront or investing in quality signage for your business? Brockton's Facade Improvement Program is still accepting applications for 2020. We will fund 50% of an eligible project within the Brockton Community Improvement Area in downtown Walkerton, granting up to $1,500 to help your storefront look attractive and inviting.
Join the many Walkerton businesses that have taken advantage of this program! View the Facade Improvement Program Guidelines to find out if you're eligible.
Municipality of Brockton | Brockton.ca