British Columbia businesses forced to temporarily close due to increasing COVID cases are now eligible to receive a one-time relief grant of up to $ 10,000.
Called the ‘COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant,’ it will complement federal programs and help businesses alleviate some of the financial pressure, the provincial government said in a statement.
Completely closed orderly businesses include adult gyms, gyms and dance centers, bars, lounges and nightclubs, and event venues that can no longer host events.
“We are all exhausted by COVID-19, but unfortunately COVID-19 is not done with us,” Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Employment, Economic Recovery and Innovation said in a press release. “As we have done since the beginning of the pandemic, we are coming together to ensure that the most affected companies receive the support they so badly need. The COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will directly help businesses get through these tough times. “
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COVID-19: BC to Ban Organized Indoor Events, Close Nightclubs, and Keep Home Gatherings Small
Businesses were ordered to close until at least January 18, 2022 in an effort to stem the rise in COVID cases, particularly the Omicron variant.
BC is experiencing a doubling of Omicron every other day, experts said, and in the past two days, a record number of new COVID cases has been recorded – 1,528 cases on Wednesday.
Read more:
BC breaks Tuesday’s record with 1,528 new COVID-19 cases
The province said new aid grants to help businesses will range from $ 1,000 to $ 10,000 and will be provided to eligible businesses based on the number of employees.
Applications for the grant will be available in January 2022.
The government said more information on how to apply will be made available in the coming weeks and that the application process will be open until the end of February 2022.
Business advisors will be able to support and direct applicants through a dedicated call center to be established in early January by the province and small business BC. Businesses may also email questions to: [email protected]
To be eligible for the COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant, a business must:
* confirm that it has been completely closed by recent orders from the provincial health official;
* New applicants will need to provide direct deposit information (not required if business was approved for Breaker Business Assistance or Small and Medium Business Recovery grants);
* confirm that you are registered as a British Columbia business by November 1, 2021;
* confirm that the company is following all public health orders and guidelines;
* produce a business validation document, such as a municipal business license, liquor license, appraisal notice, or lease; Y
* confirm majority ownership and operations and payment of taxes in BC
Eligible applicants closed as a result of orders from provincial health officials will receive funding based on staffing. The breakdown is as follows:
* Companies without employees or contracted personnel: $ 1,000
* One to four employees or contract staff: $ 2,000
* From five to 99 employees or contract personnel: $ 5,000
* 100 or more employees or contracted personnel: $ 10,000.
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