Businesses impacted by the latest COVID-19 restrictions could be eligible to receive a new one-time relief grant of up to $10,000.
In a live press conference Thursday, the BC government announced businesses temporarily shut down by public health orders will be eligible to receive a new one-time relief grant.
The COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will supplement federal support programs and provide up to $10,000 to affected businesses.
Eligible businesses could receive between $1,000 and $10,000, depending on the number of employees.
The grant will help with expenses including rent, employee wages, insurance, maintenance and utilities.
The new fund was fast-tracked by the provincial government after new public health orders were implemented due to surging COVID-19 cases in BC and will cost an estimated $10 million.
“We’re all exhausted by COVID-19, but unfortunately COVID-19 is not done with us,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation.
“The COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will directly help businesses through these difficult times. I encourage everyone in B.C. to support impacted local businesses, including businesses that have been forced to close by buying gift cards and memberships for future use.”
Applications for the grant will begin in January 2022, with more information on how to apply being made available over the next few weeks.
Applications will be open until the end of February 2022.
Starting in January, business advisors will be able to support and direct applicants via a call center operated by the Province and Small Business BC.
Businesses ordered fully closed include:
- gyms, fitness and adult dance centres
- bars, lounges and nightclubs
- event venues that can no longer hold events
As of now, restrictions are expected to remain in place until at least January 18th.
