The GNCC is committed to bringing timely information and news on the business impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Information on government grants, resources, and programs, and how to apply for them, is available here.
Today’s vital updates:
- The Government of Canada has announced that eligible small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) will receive a 75% wage subsidy for up to three months. The wage subsidy FAQ has not yet been updated, but should be when further details are known. Industry Canada defines an SME as an enterprise with fewer than five hundred (500) employees.
- The Government of Canada has launched the Canada Emergency Business Account. Under this program, banks will offer up to $40,000 in government-guaranteed loans for businesses with payrolls of less than $1-million. These loans will be interest-free for one year. Around $10,000 of these loans will be forgiven for eligible businesses.
- The Government of Canada has deferred GST/HST taxes and duties on exports until June.
- The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has announced that licensed restaurants and bars in Ontario may sell alcohol with food takeout and delivery orders between the hours of 9:00 am and 11:00 pm, effective immediately. No application process or fee is required.
- The holder of the liquor sales license is accountable for the responsible sale and delivery of alcohol. This includes making sure the person to whom the order is delivered is at least 19 and is not intoxicated.
- The licensee or its staff involved in the delivery of alcohol must have successfully completed Smart Serve training. In instances where the delivery is being carried out by a third party on behalf of the licensee, Smart Serve certification is required by April 25, 2020.
- The Town of Grimsby has passed a bylaw waiving the penalty and interest charges on current taxes from May 1 to June 30, including NSF charges on tax and water payments. Past-due interest on water bills and accounts receivable is waived from April 1 until June 30.
If you are showing symptoms, self-isolate for 14 days. Call a public health authority. Do not visit any healthcare provider in person before calling.
It is important that everyone practice social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Remain at home unless absolutely necessary. Minimize contact with other people. Wash hands frequently and thoroughly. Avoid touching the face. Maintain a 2-meter distance from others if you are required to be out in public. If you have recently traveled outside the country, self-isolate for 14 days. This means that you must not leave your home under any circumstances. Have supplies delivered and left at your door.
Previous updates can be accessed at https://gncc.ca/covid-19/covid-19-gncc-news/.
Stay safe and be vigilant. The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.
