Good Afternoon All,
The Prime Minister returned to his daily briefings today so below please find some updates from him and other information:
1. 75% Wage Subsidy:
Most of you know that the House and Senate sat this past Saturday and have approved the 75% wage subsidy. According to the PM this morning this program will be rolled out as quickly as possible. He didn't give a specific date on the roll-out but we will let you know as soon as it's launched.
2. New support for Commercial rent relief and business support enhancements:
The PM touched on these two issues and said that further details will be coming later in the week. Not sure what this will entail but we're hoping for concrete rent relief that's not attached to loans or deferrals. Again, as soon as there's more details I will let you know.
3. Ontario BIA Association:
The Ontario BIA Association has added their voice to the push for rent relief for small and medium sized businesses. Attached please find the letter that they have sent to the government.
4. Ontario to extend lock-down:
The Premier will be announcing today that he is extending the lock-down in the Province of Ontario for a further 28 days. This will take us into mid-May.
5. Don't Turn Out The Lights On Small Business - Round 2:
Thank you so much to those of you who have posted Round 2 of this campaign on your social media platforms. For those who haven't yet, if you could please post it that would be greatly appreciated. Also I am asking that you all keep posting the campaign - so yes, please post more than once.
6. Citywide Donation Campaign for Small Businesses:
Below is information from TABIA (Toronto Association of BIAs) about a new tool that has been launched whereby businesses can register (at NO charge) and people who wish to make a donation to a business of their choice can do so. Full information is below along with the link to the site to register.
TABIA has been collaborating with a Toronto-based technology firm and a number of concerned local citizens to launch a tool which would allow small business owners to receive donations and help them alleviate overwhelming expenses, such as rent and payroll, during these tough and unexpected times amidst COVID-19.
The tool is called www.Distantly.ca.
In less than 5 minutes, your business can create a business profile and securely connect their bank account. Once your account is created, you will be able to share your page, via email and social media, to collect financial contributions from the community. Contributions can be as low as $1 and as high as the generosity of an individual. ALL contributions are deposited directly to the businesses bank account securely within 48 hours or less.
The best thing, there is absolutely no cost to the BIA’s or the businesses that join the platform. It is an opportunity for your business to leverage your communities and audiences to raise funds during these extremely challenging times.
Thanks,
Susan
