The Ontario government has to-date provided more than $1 billion through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant to help eligible business owners affected by the COVID-19 restrictions. Additional information below - note the deadline to apply is March 31, 2021.
It has been announced that the government intends to extend the current rate structures for these subsidies from March 14 to June 5, 2021. More info below and links to apply.
The Ontario government is expanding the number of small businesses that can apply for the Main Street Relief Grant to help offset the costs of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) to cautiously and gradually reopen in parts of the province.
APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 31, 2021
Ontario Small Business Support Grant
Starting at $10,000 for all eligible businesses, the grant will provide businesses with dollar for dollar funding to a maximum of $20,000 to help cover decreased revenue expected as a result of the Province-wide Shutdown.
Ontario Chamber Taking Action on Behalf of Ontario Business
The OCC continues to call on the Province for clarity on the concrete milestones that trigger lockdown or extension, and improved communications to the business community.
Many business owners are frustrated because they do not understand what milestones are triggering a lockdown or extension. There is no easy on or off switch for employers; the lack of clarity and predictability in government decisions makes it difficult for Ontario businesses to plan effectively and invest in the necessary infrastructure for a safe re-opening.
We are at an inflection point and getting this right is critical. As we have said from the outset of the crisis, prioritizing public health is our best long-term economic strategy. The province cannot restart the economy without controlling the virus.
A new spike in cases could trigger another full provincial lockdown, prolong the crisis, and further hurt Ontario businesses and depress consumer confidence. That is why clear and consistent communications is critical.
For more information, see the letter the Ontario Chamber of Commerce sent to the Minister of Health on Wednesday, March 3, 2011, outlining five recommendations from our Health Policy Council around the vaccine roll-out and distribution in Ontario.
Government Updates
Please click on the links below to read updates from the municipal, provincial and federal governments
Update from Mayor Mrakas, Town of Aurora,read here
Update from Christine Elliott, MPP Newmarket-Aurora, read here
Update from Michael Parsa, MPP Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill, read here
Update from Leona Alleslev, MP Aurora-Oak Ridges-Richmond Hill, read here
Update from Tony Van Bynen, MP Newmarket-Aurora, read here
Virtual Town Hall with Mayor Mrakas
If you missed the Virtual Town Hall on February 17th, click below to watch the recording.
