COVID-RELATED SECTION QUICK LINKS
FUNDING / BUSINESS REOPENING / RESOURCES / SUPPORT PROGRAMS / NEWS / SURVEY / UPDATES & ACTIVITY
COVID-19 Business Funding Support Programs
Click here or the image to download the Federal and Provincial Funding Programs Overview PDF
Business Reopening Guidance & Advice
The business reopening guidance and advice provided within this section from various government levels and third-party industry organizations is provided as a courtesy to assist the business community within York Region. It is the responsibility of each business that is reopening to ensure they are following the guidelines of the Ontario Government to protect the health and safety of their employees and customers.
GOVERNMENT & INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS
ONTARIO GOVERNMENT
- Government of Ontario: Ontario Releases Guide on How to Develop a Workplace Safety Plan
- Government of Ontario: Resources to Prevent COVID-19 in the Workplace
INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS
- Canadian Business Resilience Network: Toolkit for Reopening Canada’s Economy
- Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters: COVID-19 Health & Safety Resources
THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK
As businesses prepare to open again with strict safety measures in place, the Regional Municipality of York has provided a number of materials that can be used to help advise employees and customers of proper social distancing, sanitization protocols, and more:
- COVID-19 in York Region
- Public Health Resources and Guidance for Businesses
- Preventing COVID-19 in the Workplace
- Mandatory Mask Mandate
- Mandatory Mask Instructions For Businesses
- Federal and Provincial Support for Businesses Summary Overview
- Checklist for Businesses to Comply with York Region Public Health’s Section 22 Class Order
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Signage
- COVID-19: Lower Your Risk – Français | தமிழ் | االعربية | فارسی | 简体中文 | 繁體中文
- COVID-19: If You Are Ill
- COVID-19: Self-Isolation: Guide for Caregivers, Household Members and Close Contacts
- COVID-19: Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings
- COVID-19: Information Poster: Break the Chain of Transmission (11 by 17 size)
- COVID-19: Elevator Capacity Sign
- COVID-19: Putting on and removing personal protective equipment
Fact Sheets
- COVID-19: Using Allotment/Community Gardens
- COVID-19: Practicing Physical Distancing
- COVID-19: Self-Isolation Advice
- COVID-19: Waste Management
- COVID-19: Travel Information to COVID-19 Testing
- COVID-19: Information for Workplaces
- COVID-19: Diagnosed with a Possible Case of COVID-19
- COVID-19: Information for commercial and residential buildings
- COVID-19: Donated Personal Protective Equipment
- COVID-19: Guidance for People over 70
- COVID-19: Guidance For Individuals Experiencing Domestic Violence
Guidance Documents
- Guidance for Essential Workplaces
- Guidance for Farm Operations
- Guidance for Public Gatherings
- Guidance for Places of Worship
- Guidance for Emergency Housing Service Settings
- Guidance for Group Homes and Co-Living Settings
- Guidance for Homeless Shelters
- Guidance for Emergency Child Care Centres
- Guidance for Temporary Foreign Workers
- Guidance for Funeral Home Operators: Frequently Asked Questions
- Guidance for Food Banks and Food Donation Centres
- Substance Use and Harm Reduction Guidance for Service Providers
- Guidance for Immunization Services Providers During COVID-19
- Guidance for Individuals Experiencing Domestic Violence
Images:
Handwashing and cleaning images
Videos:
Steps to proper handwashing (GIF)
Graphics:
Self-monitoring versus self-isolation tips
Information for Farmers
Farmers seeking information and clarification regarding temporary non-resident farm worker housing and isolation periods can contact Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 (prompt 4) to speak with a Public Health Inspector
- COVID-19 Guidance for Farm Operations
- Those who have travelled outside of Canada are required to self-isolate and not work for a period of 14 days starting from their arrival in Canada
- During the 14-day period, the employer should supply the temporary farm worker with necessary supplies required to self-isolate (i.e., adequate food, potable water, toiletries etc.)
- Temporary farm workers should not attend work if symptoms develop and isolate within the housing accommodation
If a temporary farm worker is unable to adequately isolate from other housemates, alternate arrangements must be made - Employers should facilitate arrangements to ensure that physical distancing of 2 metres (6 feet) is practiced in the workplace
External Resources
- Public Health Ontario
- Ontario Ministry of Health
- Government of Canada:
- World Health Organization
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
WORKPLACE PPE SUPPLIER DIRECTORIES
Links to 3rd-party and public-domain PPE supplier directories listed on this website are provided as an information service to the local business community. York Region Economic Strategy does not endorse, recommend, or approve the suitability of any product, service, or supplier listed in these directories, and users should make their own inquiries and conduct due diligence as necessary prior to choosing to do business with any particular supplier. The Regional Municipality of York shall not be liable or responsible for any matter arising from use of the products or services listed on 3rd-party and public-domain directories linked below.
- Government of Canada: Hard-surface disinfectants and hand sanitizers
- Ontario Government: Find PPE Suppliers
- York Region Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce: Sourcing Local Personal Protective Equipment
- Trillium Network: Stepping Up – Ontario Manufacturers Respond to Covid-19
- Rapid Response Platform: Offer or Request Support for PPE Supplies
COVID-19 Business Resources
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA
- COVID-19 Resources for Canadian Businesses – Financial support, loans and access to credit
- Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
- COVID-19 Resources for Canadian Businesses
- Find COVID-19 Support and Other Programs and Services Self-Assessment Tool
- Canada Business App – Easy navigation to government programs and services
- CRA – Call 1-833-966-2099 about COVID-19 related benefits
- Changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker program regarding COVID-19 FAQ
- Travel Advice and Advisories
OTHER GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS OR AGENCIES
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Employment Insurance – COVID-19
- Export Development Canada (EDC): EDC support for Canadian exporters impacted by COVID-19
- Office of the Prime Minister of Canada: Press Releases
- CanCOVID: Canada’s Federally-Mandated, Expert Led COVID-19 Research Response
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS REGARDING BUSINESS SUPPORT
- January 26: Minister Ng announces launch of Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program
- November 2: Government introduces legislation for new, targeted support to help businesses through pandemic
- October 26: CEBA now open to businesses that were using personal banking accounts before March 1
- September 24: Government of Canada introduces legislation to support Canadians through Recovery Benefits and extend access to funds for emergency measures
- September 16: Prime Minister announces next steps for Safe Restart Agreement
- September 2: Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) Call Centre
- August 31: Government announces greater flexibility and extension of Canada Emergency Business Account
- August 31: New measures to ensure the supply of future vaccines and therapies against COVID-19
- August 20: Government of Canada announces plan to help support Canadians through the next phase of the recovery
- August 17: Canada Revenue Agency opens applications for enhanced Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy
- July 16: More support for Canadians through the Safe Restart Agreement
- July 2: Government of Canada Announces Extension of Rent Relief Program for Small Businesses
- June 25: Government of Canada announces support for students serving their communities and opportunities to gain paid work experience
- June 19: Prime Minister’s remarks on measures to support Canadians and businesses during COVID-19
- June 17: Government of Canada announces new mobile app to help notify Canadians of COVID-19 exposure
- June 16: Prime Minister’s remarks on the extension of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit
- June 1: Government of Canada announces support to help communities create jobs and restart the economy
- May 25: Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance now open for applications
- May 20: Government of Canada announces opening of program to protect jobs and help businesses
- May 19: Government of Canada announces expansion of support for workers and small businesses
- May 15: Government of Canada announces support for research staff in Canada
- May 13: FedDev Ontario launches Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to support local economies
- May 12: Prime Minister announces additional support for Canadian seniors
- May 11: Additional support for businesses to help save Canadian jobs
- May 7: Government of Canada announces agreements to boost wages for essential workers
- May 5: Supporting Canada’s farmers, food businesses, and food supply
- April 23: New Support for COVID-19 Medical Research and Vaccine Development
- April 18: Support for Indigenous businesses
- April 17: New Support to Protect Canadian Jobs
- April 16: Additional Support for Small Businesses
- April 15: Expanded Access to Canada Emergency Response Benefit and Support for Essential Workers
- April 8: Changes to Canada Summer Jobs Program to Help Businesses and Young Canadians Affected by COVID-19
- March 27: Support for Small Businesses Facing Impacts of COVID‑19
- March 23: Support for Farmers and Agri-Food Businesses Under Canada’s Response to COVID-19
ONTARIO GOVERNMENT
- Ontario Small Business Support Grant
- COVID-19: Help for businesses in Ontario
- Businesses: Get help with COVID-19 costs
- Ontario Made Program – Ontario Made is a celebration of Ontario Manufacturing led by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters
- Frontline and business: help us support you during COVID-19
- Reopening Ontario after COVID-19
- Stop the Spread Business Information Hotline
- Help fight Coronavirus
- List of Essential Workplaces in Ontario
- Submit Your Ideas to Help Fight Coronavirus
- Submit Your Innovative Solutions to Help Fight the Impacts of Coronavirus
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS REGARDING BUSINESS SUPPORT
- January 15: Applications Now Open for Ontario’s Small Business Support Grant
- December 21: Ontario Building On Supports for Employers During COVID-19
- December 21: Ontario Announces Provincewide Shutdown to Stop Spread of COVID-19 and Save Lives
- December 18: Ontario Caps Food Delivery Fees to Protect Small Businesses
- December 17: Ontario Supports Employers and Employees Impacted by COVID-19
- December 17: Ontario Supporting Workers Impacted by COVID-19
- December 4: Ontario Supports Businesses, Workers and Families during COVID-19
- December 1: Businesses: Get help with COVID-19 costs
- November 10: Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover Promotes Job Creation by Reducing Taxes on Employers
- November 5: Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover
- November 3: Ontario Releases COVID-19 Response Framework to Help Keep the Province Safe and Open
- October 7: Ontario Supports Small Main Street Businesses with $60 Million in Funding through PPE Grant
- September 16: Ontario Launches New COVID-19 Screening Tool to Help Protect Students and Staff
- September 14: Health Preparedness and Rebuilding the Economy Top Priorities in Ontario’s Fall Legislative Agenda
- August 12: Ontario Providing Municipalities with up to $1.6 Billion in First Round of Emergency Funding
- August 7: Ontario Continues on the Path of Renewal, Growth, and Economic Recovery
- July 31: Ontario Implementing Additional Measures at Bars and Restaurants to Help Limit the Spread of COVID-19
- July 30: Ontario Releases Plan for Safe Reopening of Schools in September
- July 29: Ontario Moving Toronto and Peel Region into Stage 3
- July 22: Ontario Legislature Adjourns after Significant Sitting in Response to COVID-19
- July 20: Ontario Moving More Regions into Stage 3
- July 13: Nearly All Businesses and Public Spaces to Reopen in Stage 3
- July 10: Ontario Focusses on Renewal, Growth, and Economic Recovery
- July 6: Government Proposes Made-in-Ontario Plan for Growth, Renewal and Economic Recovery
- July 3: Ontario Launches Online Training to Promote Safe Workplaces
- July 3: Ontario Supporting Restaurants as Province Safely Reopens
- June 30: Ontario Encourages Support of Local Small Businesses
- June 26: Ontario Provides Stable Electricity Pricing for Industrial and Commercial Companies
- June 25: Ontario Helping Youth Pursue New Opportunities
- June 19: Ontario Supporting Indigenous-Owned Businesses During COVID-19
- June 18: Ontario Protecting Farmers and Food Supply Chain
- June 17: Ontario Pauses Commercial Evictions
- June 17: Ontario Extends Emergency Orders
- June 15: More People Can Get Back to Work as Additional Businesses and Services to Reopen This Week
- June 12: Ontario Protecting Agri-Food Workers during COVID-19
- June 11: Ontario and Canada Helping Small Businesses Go Digital
- June 8: Ontario Permits More Businesses and Services to Reopen in the Coming Days
- June 8: Ontario Proposing Temporary Ban on Commercial Evictions
- June 6: Ontario Extends Emergency Orders to Support Its Reopening Efforts
- June 3: Ontario Extends Declaration of Emergency until June 30
- June 1: Ontario Extending Infectious Disease Emergency Leave for Workers during COVID-19
- May 29: Support for Small Business Tenants and Landlords Now Available
- May 22: Ontario Makes it Easier to Conduct Business during COVID-19
- May 22: Ontario Helps People Impacted by COVID-19 Get Back to Work – New Programs Focus on Hospitality Workers and Apprentices
- May 14: Ontario Announces Additional Workplaces that Can Reopen
- May 14: Canada and Ontario Take Steps to Further Protect Farm Workers
- May 13: FedDev Ontario launches Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to support local economies
- May 13: Voluntary Redeployment of Education Workers to Fill Staffing Shortages
- May 13: Ontario Takes Steps to Better Protect Long-Term Care Residents and Staff During the COVID-19 Outbreak
- May 12: Declaration of Emergency Extended While Ontario Gradually Reopens the Economy
- May 11: Ontario Retail Stores Open for Curbside Pickup and Delivery
- May 11: Electronic Press Kit Now Available: Ontario Retail Stores Open for Curbside Pickup and Delivery
- May 8: Canada and Ontario Take Additional Steps to Protect Agri-Food Workers During COVID-19
- May 8: Ontario’s Initiatives to Support Jobs and Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
- May 6: Ontario Further Eases Restrictions on Retail Stores and Essential Construction During COVID-19
- May 6: Ontario Extends Electricity Rate Relief During COVID-19
- April 24: Governments Invest $2.5 Million to Grow Agri-food e-Business During COVID-19
- April 24: Ontario Provides Urgent Relief for Small Businesses and Landlords
- April 17: Canada and Ontario Supporting Agri-food Sector Supply Chain During COVID-19
- April 13: Keeping Canadians and workers in the food supply chain safe
- April 11: Ontario Businesses Stepping Up to Fight COVID-19
- April 9: Ontario Starts Planning for Economic Recovery
- March 26: Ontario Enabling Financial Relief for Businesses
- March 25: Ontario’s Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19
THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF YORK
- Federal and Provincial Support for Businesses Summary Overview
- York Region Economic Development COVID-19 Updates & Activity
- Checklist for Businesses to Comply with York Region Public Health’s Section 22 Class Order
- In-person business advisory services are currently transitioning to phone consultations at this time. For information please email: edo@york.ca
- York Small Business Enterprise Centre (YSBEC): Effective immediately, where possible, the YSBEC will be moving all in person consultations to phone consultations. Consultations that cannot be completed by phone will be postponed until further notice. In addition, we will be evaluating all seminars and programs to see which ones can be delivered online. Please stay tuned for more information on our programs over the coming days and weeks including:
- York Region COVID-19 Small Business Recovery Program
- Ontario Summer Company
- Starter Company Plus
- Digital Main Street – Digital Service Squad
- Business Continuity Planning Handbook
- Business Continuity Planning Fillable Template
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS REGARDING BUSINESS SUPPORT
- December 21: York Region lockdown extended to January 23, 2021
- December 16: York Region welcomes $9.92 million in additional Safe Restart funding
- December 13: York Region implements additional measures for retail stores and shopping malls
- December 11: York Region placed in lockdown for minimum 28 days
- November 26: COVID-19 enforcement task force to increase inspection activity this weekend to ensure compliance
- November 22: York Region to charge businesses that fail to take steps to prevent or stop spread of COVID-19
- November 13: York Region placed in RED-Control Zone of Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework
- November 3: York Region businesses to re-open November 7, 2020
- November 2: York Region advocates for the safe re-opening of businesses
- October 29: Joint Chairman and Dr. Kurji Statement – York Region looks to safely re-open local businesses
- October 16: York Region placed under Modified Stage 2 restrictions – Chairman Statement
THE #SPIRITofYR CAMPAIGN
We, as a community, are facing unprecedented COVID-19 challenges and are being asked to do our part to flatten the curve by practicing physical distancing and staying home as much as possible. But we, as a community, won’t let it break our spirit.
We are inviting residents, businesses and organizations in the York Region community to share their positive stories of a neighbour, a frontline worker, family member or anyone who has gone above and beyond during COVID-19. For full details on how to participate visit: york.ca/spiritofyr
LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES
- Town of Aurora
- Town of East Gwillimbury
- Town of Georgina
- King Township
- City of Markham
- Town of Newmarket
- City of Richmond Hill
- City of Vaughan
- Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville
OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS REGARDING BUSINESS SUPPORT
- King | June 1: King Township Joins the ShopHERE powered by Google program
- Vaughan | May 26: Vaughan Small Business Resiliency Program
- Aurora | April 23: Aurora Starts Planning to Safely Reopen Facilities and Local Businesses
- Aurora | March 31: Aurora Assembles Task Force to Focus on Local Economy
- Aurora | March 20: Aurora Provides Relief Options for Tax and Water Bills
- East Gwillimbury | April 22: Georgina establishes Emergency Response Benefit to support local businesses
- Georgina | April 23: Emergency Response Benefit to Support Local Businesses
- King | March 30: King ensuring citizens and businesses stay informed about COVID-19 relief measures from every level of government
- Markham | March 27 : City of Markham Approves Tax and Fee Relief for Residents and Businesses
- Newmarket | April 27: Newmarket Council approves Financial Relief Program to help residents and businesses in need
- Newmarket | April 21: Newmarket takes creative and collaborative approach to help local businesses respond to COVID-19
- Richmond Hill | April 22: Council supports Local Businesses through the creation of Recover Richmond Hill Task Force
- Richmond Hill | March 26: Richmond Hill Provides Tax and Other Relief to Residents and Businesses
- Vaughan | April 22: City Implements Relief for its Not-For-Profit Tenants
- Vaughan | April 15: Taking Action for Local Businesses
- Whitchurch-Stouffville | April 23: Town Reduces 2020 Water Billing Rates
- Whitchurch-Stouffville | April 9: Town Creates Business Continuity & Economic Recovery Plan for COVID-19 Challenges
- Whitchurch-Stouffville | March 25: Town Defers Tax and Water Bill Due Dates
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE & BOARDS OF TRADE
LOCAL TO YORK REGION
- Aurora Chamber of Commerce
- East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce
- Georgina Chamber of Commerce
- King Chamber of Commerce
- Markham Board of Trade
- Newmarket Chamber of Commerce
- Richmond Hill Board of Trade
- Vaughan Chamber of Commerce
- Whitchurch-Stouffville Chamber of Commerce
- York Region Business Coalition
ADDITIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
OTHER INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS
- World Health Organization: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic
- Council of the Federation: Provinces and Territories Taking Action on COVID-19
- Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB): Coronavirus and small business: keeping you and your employees safe
- Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB): COVID-19 Small Business Help Centre
- Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB): Free templates to help your business during the COVID-19 crisis
- Municipal World: Coronavirus News Updates
NOT-FOR-PROFITS
- Ontario Trillium Foundation: One-time Resilient Communities Fund
TECH SECTOR
- Council of Canadian Innovators: COVID-19 Resources & Support
- ventureLAB: Navigating COVID-19 – Resources for Your Business
- MaRS Discovery District: COVID-19 Collection
- Ontario Centres of Excellence: COVID-19 Collaboration Platform
FINANCIAL SECTOR
- Toronto Finance International: COVID-19 Financial Sector Response
ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
- Canadian Manufacturers and Exporter Association: COVID-19 Resources
- Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association: COVID-19 Resources
CONSTRUCTION SECTOR
- Canadian Construction Association (CCA): COVID-19 Resources
- Council of Ontario Construction Associations (COCA): COVID-19 Resources
AGRI-FOOD SECTOR
- The Regional Municipality of York: COVID-19 Guidance for Farm Operations
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA): Canadian Agricultural Partnership Cost Share Funding
- Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU): COVID-19 Guidance for Berry Growers and Pick-Your-Own Operations
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA): Agriculture and agri-food industry safety during COVID-19
- Workplace Safety & Prevention Services: Health and Safety Guidance for Agricultural Workers during COVID-19
- Workplace Safety & Prevention Services: Health and Safety Guidance for Agricultural Supervisors during COVID-19
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA): Agri-Food Open for E-Business – Targeted Intake
- Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC): Emerging AgriWorkforce Issues – COVID-19
- Canadian Agricultural Human Resouce Council (CAHRC): Guidance for Employers of Temporary Foreign Workers Regarding COVID-19
- Food & Consumer Products of Canada: COVID-19 Updates and Resources
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture: Access all the latest updates, information, announcements and resources on COVID-19
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture: Managing Farm Stress During COVID-19
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA): Access all the latest updates, information, announcements and resources on COVID-19
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA): A Guide for Direct Sales to Consumers during COVID-19 and Beyond
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA): A Guide for Financial Assistance Programs for Ontario Farmers
- Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA): Agriculture and agri-food industry safety during COVID-19
- Farm Credit Canada: COVID-19 Support Program for producers, agribusiness and food processors
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada: Cash Flow and Liquidity Measures
- York Farm Fresh: York Farm Fresh Businesses Who Sell Directly to Consumers
- Town of Georgina: Georgina’s agriculture businesses who sell direct to consumers
- Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium: EMC membership’s resources and benefits
RETAIL, SERVICE, AND TOURISM SECTOR
- Central Counties Tourism: COVID-19 Industry Resources and Opportunities
- Retail Council of Canada: COVID-19 Resources for Retailers
- Hotel Association of Canada: COVID-19: Information For Hoteliers
- Ontario Restaurant Hotel and Motel Association: Hospitality COVID-19 Resource Centre
- Restaurants Canada: Navigating coronavirus: COVID-19 updates & resources for food service operators
- Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO): COVID-19 Resources, Updates and News
- Ontario Ministry of Health: COVID-19 Guidance for Food Premises
COVID-19 Business Support Programs
The business community globally, in Canada, Ontario and York Region is significantly impacted by COVID-19. In response, various government levels, government enterprises, and industry organizations announced support programs for the business community during this pandemic. If you’re unsure what key programs are available to assist you with addressing specific challenges, we’ve organized some of the most pertinent resources by key need areas identified by our local business community.
Alternatively, below you’ll also find a more comprehensive list of programs organized by program owner (government-level, industry organization etc.) as well as an events calendar with links to select program ‘how to’ expert webinars. York Region’s Economic Strategy team is committed to supporting our business community during this crisis. Should you need additional information beyond the resources available below please fill out the contact form.
YORK REGION COVID-19 BUSINESS RECOVERY BLOG SERIES
- Part 1: Immediate Actions York Region Employers Should Take In Response To COVID-19
- Part 2: The Key To COVID-19 Business Survival – Cash Flow Support Programs
- Part 3: COVID-19 Planning – Government Funding For Industry Sectors
- Part 4: York Region Businesses COVID-19 FAQ
EMPLOYEE SUPPORT & RETENTION
- Government of Canada: Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
- Government of Canada: After CERB: Transitioning to new benefits
- Government of Canada: Find Financial Help During COVID-19
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Work-Sharing Program
- Government of Ontario: COVID-19: Help for businesses in Ontario
- Canadian Revenue Agency: Temporary Wage Subsidy (TWS) for Employers
- Regional Municipality of York: Business Support and Resources
CASH FLOW CHALLENGES
- Ontario Government: Ontario Small Business Support Grant
- Ontario Government: Get COVID-19 relief funding for your business
- Government of Canada: Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan
- Government of Canada: Find COVID-19 Support and Other Programs and Services Self-Assessment Tool
- Government of Canada: Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS)
- Business and Industry: Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS)
- Export Development Canada: How EDC is helping exporters during COVID-19
- Business Development Canada: Support for entrepreneurs impacted by the coronavirus COVID-19
- Canada Revenue Agency: Helping Canadians with the economic impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Farm Credit Canada: COVID-19 Support Program for producers, agribusiness and food processors
PROCUREMENT & SUPPLY CHAIN RISK
- Government of Ontario: Workplace PPE Supplier Directory
- Public Works and Government Services Canada: Calling all suppliers – Help Canada combat Coronavirus disease
- Ontario Government: Help fight Coronavirus
- Ontario Government: Ontario Joins Forces with the Private Sector to Fight COVID-19
- Export Development Canada: Helping Canadian companies with financial relief and support
- Canada Border Services Agency: Current border measures and requirements
EXPERT GUIDANCE
- Regional Municipality of York COVID-19 Updates: Public Places and Closures, Testing, Emergency Child Care, Interactive Dashboard, and more
- Government of Canada: Canada Business App – Easy navigation to government programs and services
- Deloitte: Pandemic preparedness and responding to COVID-19
- WSIB Ontario: Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) update
- Export Development Canada: What Canadian exporters need to know about the coronavirus (COVID-19)
- Canadian Trade Commissioner Service: Contact a Canadian Trade Commissioner Abroad
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada: How the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services
- Public Health Ontario: COVID-19 Public Resources
FREQUENTLY ASKED COVID-19 BUSINESS QUESTIONS
York Region Economic Strategy in partnership with Mentor Works have developed a thorough FAQ that covers everything from general COVID-19 business questions, transitioning to remote work, available government funding programs, and more. Click the link below to explore the entire frequently asked questions document.
COVID-19 York Region Business News
- Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program | COVID-19 Funding Spotlight
Qualified small to medium-sized Canadian businesses can receive from $25,000 to $1 million in HASCAP loans, and larger organizations with multiple locations such as a chain of restaurants or hotels can receive up to $6.25 million in funding support. - York Region Business Update // February 2021
York Region Economic Development’s monthly e-newsletter shares highlights and news from the business community, small business supports, events, economic data, and more. - Ontario Expands Eligibility for Main Street Relief Grant
The Ontario government is expanding the number of small businesses that can apply for the Main Street Relief Grant to help offset the costs of purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) to cautiously and gradually reopen in parts of the province. Small businesses with 2 to 19 employees in all eligible sectors
York Region COVID-19 Business Impact & Recovery Survey
The Regional Municipality of York, in partnership with local municipalities, the York Region Business Coalition of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, and the Workforce Planning Board of York Region have partnered to support the local business community as the economy reopens and starts recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Key results and insights from the York Region COVID-19 Business Impact and Recovery Survey conducted in May 2020 are now available.