Government of Ontario announces capacity limits in many indoor public settings

Effective Sunday, December 19, the provincial government announced additional public health and workplace safety measures in response to the Omicron variant, including a 50 per cent capacity limit in many indoor public settings. These include restaurants and bars; retailers (including grocery stores and pharmacies); shopping malls; personal care services and more. In addition, only 10 patrons are now permitted to sit at a table in restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments, which are now required to close by 11 p.m. (with an exemption for takeout and delivery services).

Registration opens for free webinars to support entrepreneurs and small businesses

The City of Toronto and its partners are offering a slate of free webinars to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in 2022. These learning opportunities cover a range of subject areas, from the basics of eCommerce, to the legal questions to consider when establishing a business, to general small business tax literacy. Learn more and register for these free webinars.

Entrepreneur Mentoring Program looking for experienced volunteer mentors

January is National Mentoring Month and the City of Toronto's Small Business Enterprise Centre (Enterprise Toronto) is looking for experienced entrepreneurs who want to share their expertise. If you're an entrepreneur who can provide advice on starting and growing a small business, consider becoming a volunteer mentor. Complete an online form to get started.

Retail Accelerator Program offers training, mentoring and a micro grant of $10,000

Applications are being accepted for the City of Toronto's Retail Accelerator Program. Part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative, the new program provides access to retail training, advisory services and mentoring opportunities, as well as a micro grant of $10,000 to help retail businesses develop and expand. Apply by March 31, 2022.

Commercial Space Rehabilitation Grant Program to help operators and owners of vacant storefronts 

The City of Toronto's new Commercial Space Rehabilitation Grant Program is offering matching funding of 50 per cent to commercial business operators and owners of vacant storefronts (or, in certain limited circumstances, at risk of becoming vacant) to undertake interior improvements. The program is a key part of the Toronto Main Street Recovery and Rebuild Initiative. Applications will be accepted until February 28, 2022 or when funds are expended, whichever comes first, and are considered on a first received, first reviewed basis. Apply today.

Business Community News 

DMZ's incubator and bootcamp programs accepting applications

The DMZ is accepting applications for its February 2022 pre-incubator Bootcamp program and March 2022 Incubator program. The DMZ supports founders on their journeys to launch and scale world-class companies by providing one-on-one guidance, customized support and access to coaching, customers, capital and talent. The DMZ also offers Launchpad, two unique community platforms that support Black founders and women founders at all stages. Learn more.

COVID-19 and workplace safety: Advice for food processors 

Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) is offering professional advice and consulting to food processors on COVID-19 and workplace safety. Your workplace may be eligible for two days of services tailored to your needs (worth $2,000 and paid for by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership). Available until February 28, 2022. Get more details about this offer.

De-escalation training available for street-front retailers

The City of Toronto continues to offer de-escalation training sessions for street-front retailers. The sessions are geared to managers or employees who interact with the general public regularly and would like to learn strategies and skills for communicating with individuals who may be street involved or displaying agitated behaviours. Training is facilitated by the Downtown Yonge BIA and a mental health educator. Learn more and register for free.

Webinars and Online Events

A full list of webinars and learning opportunities is available online.

Commercial Space Rehabilitation Grant Program: Information Session
January 10, 9 to 10 a.m. – Register (Free)

T2 Corporation Tax Literacy Seminar
January 10, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

Legal Bootcamp: How to Start & Grow Your Business
January 12, 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

WSIB Laws & Regulations for Small Businesses
January 13, 9:30 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

T1 General Small Business Tax Literacy Seminar
January 14, 9:30 a.m. to noon – Register (Free)

Retail Accelerator Program Information Session
January 17, 10 to 11 a.m. – Register (Free)

Web Presence 101: Ensuring Your Foundation is Set
January 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Register (Free)

Service Canada Programs and Services for Employers
January 20, 11 a.m. to noon – Register (Free)

Business Learning Hub Courses
Register (Pay what you can)

Small Business Centres Ontario
On-going Online Events and e-Learning – Register (Free to $35)

City of Toronto Programs and Resources

Financial Support and Resources