The Federal government announced the extension of two pandemic support programs for businesses. The application deadline for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is extended to October 31. The program provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits. The Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) is extended to June 2021. Through BCAP, Export Development Canada and the Business Development Bank are working with financial lenders to support access to capital for Canadian businesses of all sizes in all sectors.
Indoor capacity limits eased for meeting and event facilities
The Ontario Government has eased restrictions for facilities that rent out professional meeting and event spaces. As of August 21, facilities are allowed to have up to 50 guests for each indoor meeting room or event space within the facility. Facilities must adhere to a plan approved by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health. For more details, see guidance for professional meeting and event facilities.
COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program for Small Business
The Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program for Small Business is available to help businesses struggling to pay energy bills as a result of the COVID-19 emergency. The program provides a one-time credit to eligible small businesses to help them catch up on their energy bills and resume regular payments. Full program details including eligibility criteria, on-bill credit amounts and application processes are available at oeb.ca/CEAP.
Guidelines for Mandatory Mask Usage in Enclosed Public Places (Free) - Watch On Demand
Why Your Business Needs An Online Store – ShopHERE powered by Google Webinar Series (Free)
Thursday, September 3 at 11:30 a.m. - Register
Ask an Accountant - Applying for Government COVID-19 Support Programs (Free) Watch on Demand
The Canadian Landscape for Business Expansion and Relocation Webinar (Free)
Wednesday, September 16, 3 - 4 p.m. - Register
Business AdviceTO Event Series (Free)
Business AdviceTO SisterTalk (BIWOC) Black Indigenous Women of Colour Biz Mentorship Circle | Thursdays at 10 a.m. - Register
Business Community News
Applications open for Small Business Relief Fund
The Canada United Small Business Relief Fund is accepting applications for grants of up to $5,000. Supported by the City of Toronto, the initiative provides relief grants that can be used for COVID-19 recovery efforts such as purchasing PPE, renovating physical spaces or developing e-commerce capabilities. Find eligibility criteria and apply.
Applications open for G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance
The G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance (YEA) brings together the world’s top young entrepreneurs to advance youth entrepreneurship as a driver of economic growth, innovation and social change. Futurpreneur Canada is looking for 45 of Canada’s brightest young entrepreneurs to represent the country at the virtual 2020 G20 YEA Summit to be held October 29 to 30. Applications are due September 13.
Tune into Techstars Toronto Virtual Demo Day
On September 3, Techstars Toronto Accelerator will showcase demos from a diverse class of startups, hailing from the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and all across Canada. Listen in on the pitches and learn how their startups can change our future. Register for the event.
Toronto businesses continue to support the community
Working with the United Way Greater Toronto, the Toronto Office of Partnerships and DonateTO, The Shoe Company is providing 1,500 pairs of new children's shoes to support vulnerable families in Toronto's shelters affected by COVID-19 and in other women’s shelters across the GTA. Learn how your business can help.
11 ways to build a successful recruitment strategy
From tips to templates, innovation hub MaRS shares resources from industry experts that can help you build out an inclusive and efficient hiring process.
