As we move further into the reopening phases, it's very important we all do our part and continue supporting locally-owned, independent businesses. On top of counting on customer loyalty, below you'll see a list of programs that contribute to business recovery efforts, in a variety of areas. From digital marketing to utility bill relief, see below for monetary business supports available right now.
We will continue to update this list as more programs become available and whether you're a customer or business owner, spread the word!
*NEW* Free on-air Promotion for Local Businesses on Radio Western
Radio Western is currently offering free on-air promotions to local businesses in London. To take advantage of this great opportunity to access new audiences (for free!), email them at marketing@radiowestern.ca.
Postmedia Local Marketing Grant
Postmedia is doing their part to help businesses during reopening by offering this program that in two different ways:
A full marketing grant for select businesses in sectors considered to be the hardest hit including (but not limited to) the restaurant, tourism, and hospitality industries
A matching program where local businesses can apply to have their media investments matched ranging from $500-$15,000
Check out their website for full details and eligibility. Applications are due by September 12, 2020.
Digital Main Street
This program’s “Digital Transformation Grant” offers $2500 grants to main street businesses in order to increase their digital footprint. Some of these items include: e-commerce solutions, digital marketing, website development, and so much more. Applications are due by October 31, 2020.
Check out their website for full details, eligibility criteria, to make an account and apply, as well as new partners and programs.
#DIGOEV Digital Marketing Fund
Earlier this summer, the Old East Village BIA launched our #DIGOEV Digital Marketing fund which was initiated by the profits from Western Fair’s Virtual Beer and BBQ Show with contributions from Libro and the OEVBIA.
Through this fund, eligible OEV businesses can apply for micro-grants to bolster their digital marketing efforts through post promotions on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Check out this link for more details. There is no deadline to apply, grants will be available while funds are available.
CEAP - COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program
This program, funded by the Ontario Government, provides a one-time, on-bill credit to eligible small business and registered charity customers to help alleviate financial pressures from their energy bills. Customers may be eligible for up to $800 in support.
For more information and eligibility, see this website. Applications will be accepted starting August 31, 2020.
Small Business Centre’s Main Street Retail Grant Program
This program offers hands on training and coaching while providing eligible Main Street businesses with up to $4000 in grant funds. These funds can cover operational costs for businesses as they reopen and recover.
Register for the Information Session taking place on Sept. 14, 2020 by emailing Phil Singeris at psingeris@sbcentre.ca. Spaces are very limited, register asap!
London Middlesex Restaurant Support Fund
This fund offers grants up to $1000 and was created to specifically support locally-owned restaurants in Middlesex County. The grants are unrestricted and meant to support operational expenses associated with reopening with COVID-19 resistant measures in place. This can include a range of operational expenses including PPE, plexiglass installation, costs of restocking fresh foods, and losses incurred during shutdown because of seating limitations.
To find out more and view the full eligibility and application, click right here.
Continue to monitor this post for an ongoing list of monetary supports that come available.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook for more information, resources, supports, and promotions in OEV!
Last updated Sept. 17, 2020
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