Below you will find a list of resources and supports available to businesses and property owners across Canada during these difficult, uncertain, and strenuous times. With informational, to financial, to promotional resources and supports from Municipal, Federal, and Provincial levels, we will continue to monitor all available items that may aid in mitigating the impacts of COVID-19 on OEV Businesses.
Reopening Supports
Ontario Government Reopening Framework - This document provides a detailed account of what reopening businesses in Ontario means, requires, and looks like at this time. This document includes information, supports available, and sector-specific guidelines to help businesses reopen with the health and safety of staff, customers, and the public at front of mind.
City of London Back to Business Initiative - To support London businesses in the next phase of the Province’s reopening, the City of London has established a Back to Business action team and intake portal. The Back to Business initiative is designed to expedite the process of responding to business requests associated with reopening. Businesses throughout the City with requests related to reopening can submit them via email at b2b@london.ca.
The below resources and supports were posted to this article on April 1, 2020 and maintained with updates until June 8, 2020.
Municipal, Provincial, and Federal Resources and Supports
Below is a list of resources and supports available to businesses:
City of London Newsroom - Provides updates from the City regarding all COVID-19 related closures, restrictions, and information.
London Business COVID-19 Portal - The LEDC, London Chamber of Commerce, London Small Business Centre have partnered to create this portal featuring daily updates on resources and supports to London businesses at this time.
Federal and Provincial Supports for Businesses - Compiled by the City of London, this is a comprehensive list of resources and supports available at this time. This includes changes in interest charges, tax reliefs, deferrals, and loans.
Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan - A fulsome list including all current supports and resources available to businesses, individuals, seniors, students, and more.
Canada Emergency Response Benefit - Information on a new initiative from the Canadian Government to provide support to businesses and employees impacted by COVID-19. This program is delivered through Service Canada and Canada Revenue Agency. You can apply here starting April 6.
Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy Program - The Canadian Government will be rolling out a three month wage subsidy program that will cover up to 75% of wages for eligible businesses, non-profits, and charities. You can apply through Canada Revenue Agency's 'My Business Account' as well as the web-based application.
Canada Emergency Business Account - These are government funded, interest-free loans of up to $40,000 for qualifying Canadian businesses. This program offers 25% ($10,000) loan forgiveness if repaid on or before December 31, 2022. Businesses may apply through their primary financial institutions.
* UPDATE: On May 19, 2020, Prime Minister Trudeau announced an expansion to the CEBA eligibility criteria to further accommodate small businesses. See news release here, more details to come regarding the application opening.
Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program - A program to lower rent by up to 75% for eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19 with the agreement of property owners/landlords. The program is expected to be operational by mid-May. More information to come.
* UPDATE: On June 8, 2020, the Ontario Government proposed changes to the Commercial Tenancies Act that will, if passed, temporarily halt evictions of businesses that are eligible for federal/provincial rent assistance. See full press release here.
The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund - A Canadian Government program in partnership with regional development agencies, that provides financial contributions (interest-free loans) to help support fixed operating costs of SMEs, where business revenues have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.The RRRF provides funding support to southern Ontario SMEs that do not qualify for, or have been declined for, current Government of Canada COVID-19 relief measures.
Workplace Resources for Reopening - The Government of Ontario released sector-specific resources available to businesses in order to protect themselves, employees, and the public against the spread of COVID-19.
Other Resources and Supports
Facebook Small Business Grant - Facebook will be offering $100 million in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses in 30 countries. More information on Canadian eligibility to come.
Save on Energy Retrofit Program - Rebates available to businesses for system upgrades to commercial buildings. They will accept new applications but services have been altered due to COVID-19. Please see their FAQs page for more information.
Canadian Federation For Independent Business - A comprehensive look at many relief measures the Canadian Government is taking in an effort to support businesses during these difficult times.
LEDC Regional Relief and Recovery Fund Webinar - This recorded webinar will walk you through the steps for applying the RRRF, a support available to SMEs in need who do not qualify for other Government of Canada Relief Measures.
SWOTC Business Recovery Supports - Southwestern Ontario Tourism Corporation has put together a list of webinars and resources for businesses as re-openings begin and we move into recovery.
Promotional Resources and Supports
Tourism London "Open for Business" Listings - A running list of local businesses offering online shopping, delivery, takeout, and porch drop offs. Peruse the listings and submit your business if it still operational in one or all of these capacities.
OEV BIA Business Contact List - A listing of OEV businesses in relation to the BIA which we have updated to indicate current or altered offerings as well as those that remain open.
OEV BIA Blog - A place to support and promote area businesses and events that, for right now, will communicate largely updates and information regarding COVID-19. For COVID-19 only blog posts, click here.
Digital Main Street Digital Service Squad - A team of experts available for one-on-one (virtual) meetings with business owners to help in such areas as digital marketing, SEO, eCommerce solutions, and much more. Click this link to book an appointment.
SaveHospitality.ca - A coalition of independent restaurant owners and suppliers creating a unified voice to bring increased awareness to and government support an industry navigating the effects of COVID-19.
Important Contacts regarding Street Activity
City of London Environmental Services - Please email es@london.ca to report street activity and request support for individuals who may be sleeping rough and urban camping as well as matters related to uncontained garbage and debris.
For the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19, please visit:
Please stay tuned to our website and Facebook Page for new information as it comes available. If you are an OEV Business owner, property owner, resident, or supporter and you may have questions or suggested resources, please call our office at 519-645-7662 or email info@oldeastvillage.com.
Stay safe and stay healthy as we all navigate the impacts of COVID-19, together.
Last updated July 2020