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.

Canada Emergency Business Account Extended
The expanded Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is now open for applications. This means that more small businesses can access it.

As of June 26, 2020, businesses eligible for CEBA now include owner-operated small businesses that do not have a payroll, sole proprietors receiving business income directly, as well as family-owned corporations remunerating in the form of dividends rather than payroll.

Applicants will have to demonstrate having eligible non-deferrable expenses between $40,000 and $1,500,000 in 2020.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Communications Guide and Template Signage
Communications is always important to ensure your staff, customers, suppliers and the general public understand the situation, what your business has to offer, and what to expect from your business. This is especially true during times of crisis when there is a great deal of uncertainty.

This standalone section of the Canadian Business Resilience Network Reopening Toolkit for Business offers guidance for internal and external communications, ready-made posters  and graphics, and a template you can customize for your own needs.
Upcoming Webinars
July 7 at 1:00 pm: Brave new world – navigating the crisis and its aftermath
In partnership with Desjardins

Jimmy Jean a Macro Strategist with Desjardins Capital Markets will discuss:
  • The COVID-19-induced economic crisis: where we stand and our view of the economic outlook
  • Reopening our economy with a delicate new dual mandate: saving lives and livelihoods
  • Until the vaccine: Adapting to a completely reconfigured economic landscape
  • Policy solutions for the previous cycle will not work: the next expansion will require innovative thinking in Canada
  • “Don’t let a good crisis go to waste”: the potential for a better society in the wake of COVID-19
July 8 at 2:30 pm: COVID-19: Technology Trends and Business Continuity
In partnership with Cisco

As many organizations transition through the initial disruption of a global pandemic they are now reevaluating digital transformation strategies to be able to meet customer needs and thrive long-term. Join Wayne Cuervo and Lisa Richardson from Cisco Canada for a discussion on technology trends and applicable business outcomes across various industries.
July 20 at 2:00 pm: How to support employees’ mental health and well-being during COVID-19 and beyond
In partnership with Sun Life

In a recent survey by Sun Life, over half (56%) of Canadians surveyed said COVID-19 is negatively impacting their mental health. Join this discussion to learn how to develop and maintain a positive mental health environment in your organization with speaker Carmen Bellows, Registered Psychologist, Director Mental Health Solutions Sun Life Financial.
Niagara Region
Economic Rapid Response Team Com pletes Second Surve y of Niagara Businesses
From the Economic Rapid Response Team:

Over 1,300 businesses, representing over 47,000 employees from all sectors and municipalities completed the online survey, administered between May 15 and June 5. Respondents shared the effects COVID-19 has had on several aspects of their businesses, including employment, revenue and expenses, and business status as well as their future outlook and recovery.

Key findings:
  • 745 respondents reported a combined loss of $425.1 million. Extrapolated across the entire Regional economy, total revenue losses are estimated to be $7.8 billion. Many businesses are either at risk of imminent permanent closure (7 per cent) or vulnerable to closure (28 per cent).
  • The pandemic has disproportionately affected Niagara’s tourism-related industries. Given the prominent role this sector plays in Niagara’s economy, unique supports and advocacy efforts will be needed to support Niagara’s recovery.
  • Businesses have made long-lasting changes to their operations that will require support going forward, including increased use of personal protective equipment (PPE), modified work hours, altered products or services, and lower staffing requirements.
  • Businesses will require a wide range of supports to recover. Although many are looking to governments for financial relief, many are also seeking promotion and marketing assistance, advocacy and support to other higher levels of government, and information and leadership from municipalities.  
Public Health Cleaning Guidelines
Niagara Public Health released a guidance and information document for cleaning public washrooms, including those in workplaces.

As businesses and public places reopen, we must continue to protect the health of staff and patrons.
Additional Resources for Reopening
Government of Ontario

Canadian Business Resilience Network

Niagara Region

Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

Retail Council of Canada

Restaurants Canada

BDO
Planning for Recovery: How to Restart Your Business in the Wake of COVID-19
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.