Province Introduces New Supports For Businesses Impacted by Closures

Province offering $10,000 grant to businesses forced to close and moving to off-peak electricity rates for small businesses as well as families.

The province is providing some relief to businesses and individuals impacted by current public health measures. 

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy says Ontario is introducing a $10,000 grant for eligible businesses forced to close due to Ontario's restrictions. 

"Our government understands that public health measures needed to blunt the spread of the Omicron variant are impacting the lives and livelihoods of small businesses, workers and families across Ontario," said Bethlenfalvy. "Since the first day of the pandemic, we have provided unprecedented levels of support to protect people, jobs and our economy. We will continue to deliver on that commitment."

Businesses eligible for the grant include the following:

• Restaurants and bars;
• Facilities for indoor sports and recreational fitness activities (including fitness centres and gyms);
• Performing arts and cinemas;
• Museums, galleries, aquariums, zoos, science centres, landmarks, historic sites, botanical gardens and similar attractions;
• Meeting or event spaces;
• Tour and guide services;
• Conference centres and convention centres;
• Driving instruction for individuals; and
• Before- and after- school programs.

 
Qualified businesses subject to closure will be pre-screened, and will not need to apply to the new program. 

Newly established and eligible small businesses can apply when the application portal opens in the coming weeks. 

Eligible small businesses can expect to receive their payment next month. 

The province is also providing electricity-rate relief to small businesses and workers and families spending more time at home. 

Starting on January 18th, the current off-peak rate of 8.2 cents per kilowatt hour will be in effect 24 hours a day. 

Further, online applications for the Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program will open on January 18th. 

The program will provide eligible businesses that are forced to close or reduce capacity with rebate payments for up to 100 percent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while public health measures remain in place. 

The Ontario government is also providing up to $7.5 billion for six month interest and penalty-free loans for businesses.