Letter to Ontario Minister of Finance
re: Dire Straights for Ontario's Small Businesses

On behalf of the Ontario Chamber Network, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce is calling on the Ontario Government to provide immediate relief to small businesses who are on the verge of bankruptcy in light of the new restrictions. These recommendations include:

  • Extend the Small Business Support Grant for a third round
  • Work with the federal government to increase rental subsidies
  • Immediately open the recently announced portal
  • Expand access to rapid antigen tests and PCR testing
  • Work with financial institutions and the federal government to forgive loans
  • Offer an additional grant to cover increased pandemic-related expenses
  • Reduce uncertainty for business by developing a consistent plan
  • Provide clarity and consistency on specific metrics that inform decisions
ICYMI: GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS

  • Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit: providing $300 a week in income support to eligible workers who are directly impacted by a COVID-19-related public health lockdown in their region up until May 7, 2022.

  • The Local Lockdown Program: providing businesses that face temporary new local lockdowns up to the maximum amount available through the wage and rent subsidy programs.





  • Canada Recovery Hiring Program: extended until May 7, 2022, for eligible employers with current revenue losses above 10 per cent and increasing the subsidy rate to 50 per cent.

  • Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program: eligible businesses will receive rebate payments equivalent to 50 per cent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to the current capacity limits. Online applications for this program will open in mid-January 2022, with payments to eligible businesses provided retroactive to December 19, 2021.

  • Improving Cash Flow for Ontario Businesses: A six-month interest- and penalty-free period to make payments for most provincially administered taxes. The six-month period will begin January 1, 2022 and end July 1, 2022.
Get Growing: Demystifying Living
on the Financial Edge

Learn the common questions surrounding bankruptcy and facts that can help you think strategically in the face of financial challenges.
Get Growing: Mental Wellbeing
for You and Your Team

Hear from SME owners and mental health experts as they explore strategies to help be empowered to better manage mental health in the workplace.
Request for Expressions of Interest

The National Capital Commission has launched a Request for Expressions of Interest (REI) on its website to seek proponents and ideas for two major attraction sites. They are looking for attractions that will amplify excitement and energy for one of Canada’s premier city-building initiatives: Building LeBreton.

 Submissions will be accepted until February 28, 2022. 

The major attractions are expected to be a regional and international draw for sports, entertainment, cultural and/or recreational purposes. The ultimate intent is to offer the land on a long-term ground lease to a proponent that would design, build, own and maintain the attraction/s facilities. These sites will become anchors for the surrounding development, which is planned as one of the most sustainable and inclusive communities in Canada.

An Exclusive Offer for your Business and Employees 

Ottawa Board of Trade members can now access exclusive banking offers to help you grow your business and fantastic perks for your employee, including:

  • Members who transfer their services to Meridian will enjoy no-fee daily banking for a year, 30% off service fees, a $200 welcome bonus, and access to market-leading equipment leasing and financing options;
  • Employees of businesses who sign up can access a personal or wealth management banking offer worth over $800.

Meridian has everything you need – chequing and savings accounts, credit cards, cash management solutions, mortgages, loans, alternative financing options, and more.
Get Engaged with Your Ottawa Board of Trade

Did you know as an OBOT member you have access to many member benefits to help you build your resources, enhance your profile, and expand your influence? Start 2022 off right, take advantage of your exclusive member benefits with OBOT!

  • OBOT Events: Events and virtual events remain a key way for business leaders, entrepreneurs and influencers to stay connected, updated and explore new opportunities. Plus share your event with your business community through our community calendar!

  • Make the POST Promise: Showcase your business' commitment to consumer and employee safety. As an incentive for businesses to make the promise, we are offering complimentary POST Promise toolkits to the first 1,000 businesses to make the promise

  • Savings and Discounts: OBOT members get access to exclusive savings and deals designed to impact your bottom line.

  • Share your business' announcements: Maybe you're hosting a grand opening or launching a new product. Share the good news with your fellow members through your members only portal. We want to hear from you! For more information see our How-To Guides located in your Member Information Centre.

Attend a Maximize Your Membership session with Kassondra Walters, OBOT's Manager, Membership Experience, to learn more about the benefits of membership!
Advertise with Your Board of Trade

Ramp up your marketing, brand awareness and advertising with OBOT. Members can take advantage of the many advertisement and sponsorship opportunities available to help you Build your Business, Promote your Brand or Support your Community!

For more information please contact: Melissa Howell at melissa.howell@ottawabot.ca
Promote Your Business| Build Your Brand | Support Your Community
Special Thanks to our Community Partners!