COVID-19 Update for October 20 2020 – 12:10pm

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today promoted a new grant program to help small businesses cope with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Canada United Small Business Relief Fund

Trudeau opened his media briefing by recognizing the perseverance of small businesses over the past six months.

He then announced the Canada United Small Business Relief Fund, created by the Royal Bank of Canada along with private sector partners, including the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the other provincial and territorial chambers of commerce.

The fund has $12 million to help small businesses, which will be given out through grants of up to $5,000.

The grants will help small businesses obtain PPE, create physical modifications due to local health and safety requirements, and advance their e-commerce and online abilities.

These grants are for small businesses that make at least $150,000 in annual sales or have up to 75 employees.

Details can be found through the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. Applications open October 26th.