Schedule a one-on-one meeting with a business advisor who will help navigate the government application processes and provide information on other City programs.
Ontario-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance program
The Canadian and Ontario governments announced a joint program to lower rent by 75 per cent for small businesses affected by COVID-19. The Ontario-Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program (OCECRA) will provide forgivable loans to eligible commercial property owners experiencing potential rent shortfalls because their small business tenants have been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. To receive the loan, property owners will be required to reduce the rental costs of small business tenants for April to June 2020 by at least 75 per cent and commit to a moratorium on evictions for three months. Further details about the program will be shared when finalized.
Financial support for businesses
Federal, provincial and municipal supports include:
Chatbot launched to help answer COVID-19 questions
The City of Toronto has introduced a chatbot to help businesses and residents with common COVID-19 questions. The chatbot is a companion to the resources on toronto.ca/covid-19, and can help you quickly find answers to your questions.
Survey results shed light on emerging business challenges
New data from the City of Toronto and Toronto Region Board of Trade’s business insights questionnaire identifies key COVID-19 challenges for the business community. Conducted April 10 to 17, the survey highlights the need for commercial rent relief and supply chain security among the main concerns.
Stay informed with upcoming webinars & events
Ask an Accountant - Applying for Government COVID-19 Support Programs (Free)
Wednesday, April 29, 3:30 p.m. - Register | Wednesday, May 6, 3:30 p.m. - Register
How to Market Your Business Through the COVID-19 Crisis (Free)
Wednesday, April 29, 10 a.m. - Register
How to be Productive Working from Home & Plan during COVID-19 Crisis (Free)
Friday, May 1, 10 a.m. - Register
SBA Cyber Breakfast: Support for Small Business - Lets Keep the Lights On (Free)
Wednesday, April 29, 9:15 a.m. - Register
Elevate Live (Free)
A 13-week virtual event series featuring thought leaders and entrepreneurs sharing current insights into the most pressing issues facing the tech industry.
Wednesdays, 12 p.m. - Register
