In this challenging and constantly changing business environment, the West Niagara Chambers of Commerce want to support our Members by providing relevant and up-to-date information. This includes government announcements and support programs, resources, webinars, surveys, and other important updates.

This is a collaborativ e email to share information that applies to our Memberships at large, sent on behalf of th e Grimsby Chamber, L incoln Chamber, and West Lincoln Chamber.

Federal Government Updates
Canadian Emergency Business Account
Eligibility for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) has been expanded to include many owner-operated small businesses.

The changes to the CEBA will allow more Canadian small businesses to access interest free loans that will help cover operating costs during a period when revenues have been reduced, due to the pandemic.

The program will now be available to a greater number of businesses that are sole proprietors receiving income directly from their businesses, businesses that rely on contractors, and family-owned corporations that pay employees through dividends rather than payroll.

To qualify under the expanded eligibility criteria, applicants with payroll lower than $20,000 would need:

  • A business operating account at a participating financial institution
  • A Canada Revenue Agency business number, and to have filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return.
  • Eligible non-deferrable expenses between $40,000 and $1.5 million. Eligible non-deferrable expenses could include costs such as rent, property taxes, utilities, and insurance.

To apply for these loans, contact your financial institution.
Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy
The Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidiary (CEWS), has been extended to August 29 from the original end date of June 6 .

  • Partnerships with one or more non-eligible members
  • Non-public educational and training institutions
  • Registered journalism organizations

Applications for CEWS can be submitted through a CRA Online Portal.
Niagara Economic Rapid Response Team
How has your business been impacted by COVID-19?

The Niagara Economic Rapid Response Team is calling for businesses to complete their survey to help inform the economic recovery planning and advocacy efforts for Niagara businesses.
May 29 | BarterPay Webinar
Upcoming Ontario Chamber Webinars
Chambers Plan Employee Benefits
May Premium Adjustments Due to COVID-19
For Members covered by the Chamb er Plan, the following credits, which represent portions of the premium you were billed for May, will be applied to your June billing: 
 
Dental : 50% premium reduction adjustment
E xtended Health : 10% premium reduction adjustment
 
Once again, there is nothing for you to do. These credits will be applied automatically.

While certain healthcare providers were given permission to reopen at the start of May, The Johnston Group will continue to support firms and their employees in this way until such time as employees are able to make use of these services and claims experience begins to return to normal.
Niagara Region
Reopening your Business During COVID-19
The Niagara Region has published a new webpage to help businesses access resources to safely reopen. The Region put together lists for:

As the Ontario Government allows businesses to reopen, your business operations may change.

Make sure to update your Open In Niagara listing with your current information!

To edit your information, go to your listing and select "Click here to edit this business" directly below your details.
Contact Your Local Chamber
Grimsby & District Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director

Lincoln
Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director

West Lincoln
Chamber of Commerce

Executive Director

This email was sent by on behalf of the West Niagara Chambers of Commerce, which consists of the Grimsby & District Chamber of Commerce, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and the West Lincoln Chamber of Commerce. You have received this email because you subscribed to our newsletters; your email address will not be shared and will be used only for these updates.
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Please contact your local Chamber if you have any questions or concerns.