Government of Ontario Stop the Spread Business Information Line
Businesses who have questions about closures of workplaces or how emergency measures impact their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. Help is available from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Businesses who have questions about closures of workplaces or how emergency measures impact their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659. Help is available from Monday to Sunday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Headlines
Ontario Moving to Step Two of Roadmap to Reopen on June 30
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 24, 2021 and Reopening Ontario
The Ontario government is moving the province into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021.
Step Two of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities and limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn, with other restrictions in place. This includes, but is not limited to:
Gatherings
Retail
Personal Care Services
Restaurants and Bars
Weddings, Funerals and Religious Services, Rites and Ceremonies (does not include receptions)
Personal Fitness and Training
Meeting and Event Spaces
Overnight Camps
Outdoor Sports Facilities, Performance Venues and Events
Tour and Guide Services (e.g. boat tours)
See the full list of restrictions
Please view the regulation for the full list of public health and workplace safety measures that need to be followed.
While the province has surpassed Step Three vaccination targets, Ontario may remain in Step Two for a period of approximately 21 days to allow the most recent vaccinations to reach their full effectiveness and to evaluate any impacts of moving to Step Two on key public health and health care indicators. When it is determined to be safe, the province will promptly move to Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 24, 2021 and Reopening Ontario
The Ontario government is moving the province into Step Two of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, June 30, 2021.
Step Two of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities and limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn, with other restrictions in place. This includes, but is not limited to:
Gatherings
- Outdoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 25 people;
- Indoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 5 people;
Retail
- Essential and other select retail permitted at 50 per cent capacity;
- Non-essential retail permitted at 25 per cent capacity;
- Stores in shopping malls open;
Personal Care Services
- Open at 25% capacity;
- Appointment required;
- Services that require the removal of a face covering not permitted;
Restaurants and Bars
- Outdoor dining with up to 6 people per table, with exceptions for larger households and other restrictions;
Weddings, Funerals and Religious Services, Rites and Ceremonies (does not include receptions)
- Indoor religious services, rites, or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services permitted at up to 25 per cent capacity of the particular room;
Personal Fitness and Training
- Outdoor fitness classes limited to the number of people who can maintain 3 metres of physical distance;
Meeting and Event Spaces
- Outdoor spaces open at 25% capacity and other restrictions
- Indoor meeting and event spaces closed, with exceptions for certain purposes, and except for viewing for potential booking of a future event
Overnight Camps
- Overnight camps for children operating in a manner consistent with the safety guidelines produced by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health;
Outdoor Sports Facilities, Performance Venues and Events
- Outdoor concert venues, theatres and cinemas, with spectators permitted at 25 per cent capacity;
- Outdoor sport facilities with spectators permitted at 25 per cent capacity;
- Outdoor horse racing and motor speedways, with spectators permitted at 25 per cent capacity;
- Outdoor fairs, rural exhibitions, festivals, permitted at 25 per cent capacity and with other restrictions.
Tour and Guide Services (e.g. boat tours)
- Outdoor open, with capacity at 25% and other restrictions
See the full list of restrictions
Please view the regulation for the full list of public health and workplace safety measures that need to be followed.
While the province has surpassed Step Three vaccination targets, Ontario may remain in Step Two for a period of approximately 21 days to allow the most recent vaccinations to reach their full effectiveness and to evaluate any impacts of moving to Step Two on key public health and health care indicators. When it is determined to be safe, the province will promptly move to Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen.
Ontario Releases Tourism Economic Recovery Report
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 23, 2021
Today, the Ontario government released a report prepared by the Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force, which makes recommendations on how to support the province’s $36-billion tourism industry recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report provides 10 key recommendations about how to rebuild and reshape the future of Ontario’s tourism industry. The recommendations include reducing red tape for tourism businesses, restoring consumer confidence in visitors through collaboration between public health officials and the tourism industry and encouraging Ontarians to experience the province through industry co-ordinated travel days. The report also suggests new opportunities to showcase the best Ontario has to offer through itineraries, packages and trails that will make it easier to find local Ontario products and experiences.
The Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force – led by former Culture, Tourism and Recreation Minister Tim Hudak – was asked to provide strategies and advice to help position Ontario and its local communities as destinations of choice for travel, as well as identify products and experiences that enhance destination development. The task force’s report is informed by industry research, advice and recommendations put forward by the 14 Ministerial Advisory Councils at the onset of the pandemic, and formal submissions received from individuals and sector associations across Ontario’s tourism industry.
Ontario will carefully review the task force’s recommendations. This input will be critical to the development of the ministry’s strategic five-year plan and will help encourage essential sector transformation, ensuring Ontario tourism continues to be a key pillar of the province’s economy and regional employment while remaining globally competitive for tourists and investment.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 23, 2021
Today, the Ontario government released a report prepared by the Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force, which makes recommendations on how to support the province’s $36-billion tourism industry recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report provides 10 key recommendations about how to rebuild and reshape the future of Ontario’s tourism industry. The recommendations include reducing red tape for tourism businesses, restoring consumer confidence in visitors through collaboration between public health officials and the tourism industry and encouraging Ontarians to experience the province through industry co-ordinated travel days. The report also suggests new opportunities to showcase the best Ontario has to offer through itineraries, packages and trails that will make it easier to find local Ontario products and experiences.
The Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force – led by former Culture, Tourism and Recreation Minister Tim Hudak – was asked to provide strategies and advice to help position Ontario and its local communities as destinations of choice for travel, as well as identify products and experiences that enhance destination development. The task force’s report is informed by industry research, advice and recommendations put forward by the 14 Ministerial Advisory Councils at the onset of the pandemic, and formal submissions received from individuals and sector associations across Ontario’s tourism industry.
Ontario will carefully review the task force’s recommendations. This input will be critical to the development of the ministry’s strategic five-year plan and will help encourage essential sector transformation, ensuring Ontario tourism continues to be a key pillar of the province’s economy and regional employment while remaining globally competitive for tourists and investment.
Accelerated Second Dose Eligibility Continues Ahead of Schedule
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 17, 2021
With a majority of Ontario adults having received a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and over three million doses of the Moderna vaccine arriving in June, the province is continuing to accelerate its vaccine rollout by expanding eligibility for second doses ahead of schedule.
Expanding the number of Delta hot spots and rapidly expanding second dose coverage in these areas will help to minimize the risk of the variant’s spread throughout the province.
In addition, effective June 14, 2021, individuals who received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine are also eligible to receive a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at an interval of eight to 12 weeks, with informed consent. This can include a second dose of AstraZeneca or an mRNA vaccine.
Ontario’s allocation of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine meant to arrive during the first two weeks of July will be lower than initially projected (decreased from approximately 885,000 to 348,000 doses) and is planned to catch up during the last two weeks of July. The government will adjust and mitigate any impacts of this decrease to the provincial vaccine rollout.
The province will continue to expand eligibility for accelerated second doses across Ontario as additional vaccine allocations and shipment timelines are confirmed by the federal government.
Individuals who are eligible to receive an accelerated second dose are invited to schedule their appointment through the provincial booking system, directly through public health units that use their own booking system, and through participating pharmacies. Select primary care providers will also be reaching out to book appointments.
All vaccines provided as part of Ontario’s vaccine rollout provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants, including the Delta variant. In addition, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has confirmed that a mixed vaccine schedule can be completed safely and is effective. To ensure maximum protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant, Ontarians are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as they can and to receive their second dose within the recommended interval.
Read the full release
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 17, 2021
With a majority of Ontario adults having received a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and over three million doses of the Moderna vaccine arriving in June, the province is continuing to accelerate its vaccine rollout by expanding eligibility for second doses ahead of schedule.
- As of Monday, June 21, 2021 at 8:00 a.m., all Ontarians who received their first dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine on or before May 9, 2021 will be eligible to book or rebook their second dose appointment at a shortened interval.
- As of Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at 8:00 a.m., individuals who received their first dose of an mRNA vaccine on or before May 30, 2021 and who live in the catchment area of one of the 10 public health units identified as Delta hot spots (Durham, Halton, Hamilton, Peel, Porcupine, Simcoe-Muskoka, Toronto, Waterloo, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph, and York public health units) will be eligible to book or rebook their second dose appointment at a shortened interval.
- Starting the week of June 28, 2021 (days / sequence to be confirmed) all Ontarians aged 18 and over who have received their first dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine will be eligible to book their second dose appointment. The appointment will be scheduled at least 28 days after the first dose, per the recommended interval.
Expanding the number of Delta hot spots and rapidly expanding second dose coverage in these areas will help to minimize the risk of the variant’s spread throughout the province.
In addition, effective June 14, 2021, individuals who received their first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine are also eligible to receive a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at an interval of eight to 12 weeks, with informed consent. This can include a second dose of AstraZeneca or an mRNA vaccine.
Ontario’s allocation of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine meant to arrive during the first two weeks of July will be lower than initially projected (decreased from approximately 885,000 to 348,000 doses) and is planned to catch up during the last two weeks of July. The government will adjust and mitigate any impacts of this decrease to the provincial vaccine rollout.
The province will continue to expand eligibility for accelerated second doses across Ontario as additional vaccine allocations and shipment timelines are confirmed by the federal government.
Individuals who are eligible to receive an accelerated second dose are invited to schedule their appointment through the provincial booking system, directly through public health units that use their own booking system, and through participating pharmacies. Select primary care providers will also be reaching out to book appointments.
All vaccines provided as part of Ontario’s vaccine rollout provide strong protection against COVID-19 and its variants, including the Delta variant. In addition, the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) has confirmed that a mixed vaccine schedule can be completed safely and is effective. To ensure maximum protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant, Ontarians are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as they can and to receive their second dose within the recommended interval.
Read the full release
What to Expect as Businesses Reopen in Step 1: Peterborough Public Health Issues Instructions for COVID-19 Measures for All Workplaces
Residents Encouraged to Dine with Household Members Only
Peterborough Public Health News Release, June 10, 2021
As Ontario prepares to enter Step 1 of the Roadmap to Reopen tomorrow (June 11), Peterborough Public Health has issued instructions to all employers and persons responsible for local businesses, organizations and workplaces within the City and County of Peterborough to ensure that workers have increased protection against COVID-19.
“Locally and provincially, there has been an increase in the number of workplace-related outbreaks of COVID-19 and these increased public health measures will help to protect our workers, while preventing further spread within our community,” explained Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.
The instructions include critical workplace protection measures such as active COVID-19 screening, non-medical mask use by employees, and the use of personal protective equipment (i.e. medical mask and eye protection) when workers are required to be within two metres of others without a physical barrier. Dr. Salvaterra noted these measures are required by all workplaces regardless if they have a public-facing component to their operations or not. For those operations with public spaces, all patrons are asked to respect the measures workplaces will be implementing and follow general public health measures such as wearing a mask, maintaining two metres physical distance, and staying home when ill.
“Ideally, workplaces should be strategic to ensure that physical distancing is maintained between workers and between workers and the public,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “If this cannot be achieved, workers will be required to wear personal protective equipment to reduce their risk.”
While these instructions are specific to workers, members of the public continue to have a responsibility to protect the broader community. “There are stipulations in the legislation governing Step 1 for individuals to remain physically distanced from anyone outside of their household. We are urging the public to remember this when they resume in-person use of businesses and services,” said Julie Ingram, Manager of Environmental Health. Ms. Ingram further explained that while the legislation does not specifically extend this requirement to outdoor dining in Step 1, the intent is there. While Peterborough Public Health will not require food premises to limit seating to household members only, it
strongly recommends residents dine only with those they live with as the safest option. . However, in the event that there is local or provincial evidence of transmission or exposure related to outdoor dining, these instructions will be reissued.
“As we carefully navigate this first step of reopening, these instructions to workplaces and recommendations to the public will help to reduce the risk of acquiring COVID-19 by a worker and multiple households, in the event that there is an exposure,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “The intent is to protect the community and help keep businesses and organizations open for good.”
Since the pandemic began, there were no workplace outbreaks reported in 2020 (excluding long-term care homes and retirement residences), but in 2021, 11 outbreaks have been declared in local workplaces. Of these, 10 outbreaks (91%) have occurred since March 31, 2021 reflecting the increased transmissibility of the variants of concern circulating in the Peterborough area since the spring.
A copy of the Instructions for workplaces can be found here: https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/public-health-orders/. Further information about the public health measures for businesses can be found on Peterborough Public Health’s website or by calling the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.
Residents Encouraged to Dine with Household Members Only
Peterborough Public Health News Release, June 10, 2021
As Ontario prepares to enter Step 1 of the Roadmap to Reopen tomorrow (June 11), Peterborough Public Health has issued instructions to all employers and persons responsible for local businesses, organizations and workplaces within the City and County of Peterborough to ensure that workers have increased protection against COVID-19.
“Locally and provincially, there has been an increase in the number of workplace-related outbreaks of COVID-19 and these increased public health measures will help to protect our workers, while preventing further spread within our community,” explained Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health.
The instructions include critical workplace protection measures such as active COVID-19 screening, non-medical mask use by employees, and the use of personal protective equipment (i.e. medical mask and eye protection) when workers are required to be within two metres of others without a physical barrier. Dr. Salvaterra noted these measures are required by all workplaces regardless if they have a public-facing component to their operations or not. For those operations with public spaces, all patrons are asked to respect the measures workplaces will be implementing and follow general public health measures such as wearing a mask, maintaining two metres physical distance, and staying home when ill.
“Ideally, workplaces should be strategic to ensure that physical distancing is maintained between workers and between workers and the public,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “If this cannot be achieved, workers will be required to wear personal protective equipment to reduce their risk.”
While these instructions are specific to workers, members of the public continue to have a responsibility to protect the broader community. “There are stipulations in the legislation governing Step 1 for individuals to remain physically distanced from anyone outside of their household. We are urging the public to remember this when they resume in-person use of businesses and services,” said Julie Ingram, Manager of Environmental Health. Ms. Ingram further explained that while the legislation does not specifically extend this requirement to outdoor dining in Step 1, the intent is there. While Peterborough Public Health will not require food premises to limit seating to household members only, it
strongly recommends residents dine only with those they live with as the safest option. . However, in the event that there is local or provincial evidence of transmission or exposure related to outdoor dining, these instructions will be reissued.
“As we carefully navigate this first step of reopening, these instructions to workplaces and recommendations to the public will help to reduce the risk of acquiring COVID-19 by a worker and multiple households, in the event that there is an exposure,” said Dr. Salvaterra. “The intent is to protect the community and help keep businesses and organizations open for good.”
Since the pandemic began, there were no workplace outbreaks reported in 2020 (excluding long-term care homes and retirement residences), but in 2021, 11 outbreaks have been declared in local workplaces. Of these, 10 outbreaks (91%) have occurred since March 31, 2021 reflecting the increased transmissibility of the variants of concern circulating in the Peterborough area since the spring.
A copy of the Instructions for workplaces can be found here: https://www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca/public-health-orders/. Further information about the public health measures for businesses can be found on Peterborough Public Health’s website or by calling the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.
How the Public Health Measures Under Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen Affect the AGCO-regulated Sectors
For ease of reference, the AGCO is highlighting relevant information regarding the current public health measures affecting each of its regulated sectors for Step 1 of the province’s Roadmap to Reopen.
Read the specific public health measures
For ease of reference, the AGCO is highlighting relevant information regarding the current public health measures affecting each of its regulated sectors for Step 1 of the province’s Roadmap to Reopen.
Read the specific public health measures
Ontario to Move to Step One of Roadmap to Reopen on June 11
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 7, 2021
The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, will move the province into Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021.
Step One of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities with smaller crowds where risk of transmission is lower. It will also permit more limited indoor settings to be open, all with restrictions in place. In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government has amended Step One to also permit indoor religious services, rites and ceremonies, including wedding and funeral services limited to 15 per cent capacity.
Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen includes but is not limited to:
Read the full list in the 3-step Roadmap to Reopen
In addition, the government is enabling school boards for public and private elementary and high schools to invite students back for brief outdoor end-of-year celebration. Any in-person school year celebrations will need to meet specific requirements.
The province will remain in Step One for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If at the end of the 21 days the province has vaccinated 70 per cent of adults with one dose and 20 per cent of adults with two doses and there are continued improvements in other key public health and health system indicators, the province will move to Step Two of the Roadmap.
All public health and workplace safety measures currently in place will remain in effect until the province moves to Step One on June 11, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. During this time, the government will continue to work with stakeholders on their reopening plans, including targeted measures for specific sectors, institutions and other settings to ensure that they have full awareness of when they can begin to safely reopen and how.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, June 7, 2021
The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, will move the province into Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021.
Step One of the Roadmap focuses on the resumption of more outdoor activities with smaller crowds where risk of transmission is lower. It will also permit more limited indoor settings to be open, all with restrictions in place. In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government has amended Step One to also permit indoor religious services, rites and ceremonies, including wedding and funeral services limited to 15 per cent capacity.
Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen includes but is not limited to:
- Outdoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 10 people;
- Outdoor religious services, rites, or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services, capped at the number of people that can maintain a physical distance of two metres;
- Indoor religious services, rites, or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services permitted at up to 15 per cent capacity of the particular room;
- Non-essential retail permitted at 15 per cent capacity, with no restrictions on the goods that can be sold;
- Essential and other select retail permitted at 25 per cent capacity, with no restrictions on the goods that can be sold;
- Outdoor dining with up to four people per table, with exceptions for larger households;
- Outdoor fitness classes, outdoor groups in personal training and outdoor individual/team sport training to be permitted with up to 10 people, among other restrictions;
- Day camps for children permitted to operate in a manner consistent with the safety guidelines for COVID-19 produced by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health;
- Overnight camping at campgrounds and campsites, including Ontario Parks, and short-term rentals;
- Concert venues, theatres and cinemas may open outdoors for the purpose of rehearsing or performing a recorded or broadcasted concert, artistic event, theatrical performance or other performance with no more than 10 performers, among other restrictions;
- Outdoor horse racing tracks and motor speedways permitted to operate without spectators; and
- Outdoor attractions such as zoos, landmarks, historic sites, botanical gardens with capacity and other restrictions.
Read the full list in the 3-step Roadmap to Reopen
In addition, the government is enabling school boards for public and private elementary and high schools to invite students back for brief outdoor end-of-year celebration. Any in-person school year celebrations will need to meet specific requirements.
The province will remain in Step One for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If at the end of the 21 days the province has vaccinated 70 per cent of adults with one dose and 20 per cent of adults with two doses and there are continued improvements in other key public health and health system indicators, the province will move to Step Two of the Roadmap.
All public health and workplace safety measures currently in place will remain in effect until the province moves to Step One on June 11, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. During this time, the government will continue to work with stakeholders on their reopening plans, including targeted measures for specific sectors, institutions and other settings to ensure that they have full awareness of when they can begin to safely reopen and how.
Ontario Announces Extension of the "COVID-19 Period" to September 25, 2021
Excerpts from Ministry of Labour, Training & Skills Development Newsletter, June 4, 2021
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ontario government made a regulation that changed certain Employment Standards Act (ESA) rules during the “COVID-19 period.” This regulation has been amended to extend the COVID-19 period to September 25, 2021.
Extension of the COVID-19 Period
During the COVID-19 period (March 1, 2020 to September 25, 2021):
If you need help understanding your employment standards rights and responsibilities, you can:
Excerpts from Ministry of Labour, Training & Skills Development Newsletter, June 4, 2021
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ontario government made a regulation that changed certain Employment Standards Act (ESA) rules during the “COVID-19 period.” This regulation has been amended to extend the COVID-19 period to September 25, 2021.
Extension of the COVID-19 Period
During the COVID-19 period (March 1, 2020 to September 25, 2021):
- A non-unionized employee is deemed to be on a job-protected infectious disease emergency leave under the ESA any time their hours of work are temporarily reduced or temporarily eliminated by their employer for reasons related to COVID-19.
- A non-unionized employee is not considered to be laid off under the ESA if their employer temporarily reduces or temporarily eliminates their hours of work or wages for reasons related to COVID-19.
- A non-unionized employee is not considered to be constructively dismissed under the ESA if their employer temporarily reduces or temporarily eliminates their hours of work or wages for reasons related to COVID-19.
- Non-unionized employees will no longer be deemed to be on infectious disease emergency leave.
- The ESA’s regular rules around constructive dismissal will resume. This means a significant reduction or elimination of an employee’s hours of work or wages may be considered a constructive dismissal, even if it was done for reasons related to COVID-19.
- The ESA’s regular rules around temporary layoff resume. For practical purposes, a non-unionized employee’s temporary layoff clock resets on September 26, 2021.
If you need help understanding your employment standards rights and responsibilities, you can:
- Visit Your guide to the Employment Standards Act at Ontario.ca/ESAguide.
- Call the Employment Standards Information Centre at 1-800-531-5551 or TTY (for hearing impaired) at 1-866-567-8893. Information is available in many languages.
- Get advice from a lawyer.
- To learn more about COVID-19, employers’ responsibilities and job protections available to employees, visit Ontario.ca/COVID.
Government of Canada Announces Details of the New Canada Recovery Hiring Program and Extension of Business Support Programs
Excerpts from Government of Canada News Release, June 2, 2021
The new Canada Recovery Hiring Program will be available retroactively to June 6, 2021.
The proposed Canada Recovery Hiring Program would help hard hit businesses hire the workers they need to recover and grow as local economies reopen. The program would provide a subsidy of up to 50 per cent of eligible salary or wages. It would be available to eligible employers who have experienced qualifying revenue declines so they can hire more workers, increase workers’ hours, or increase wages. This support would afford businesses with certainty that they can take on the extra costs needed to rehire and be ready to return to growth. Like with the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, businesses would be able to access the program through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Support would be available retroactively to this Sunday, June 6, 2021, and businesses would be able to hire workers as their local economy reopens, or as they are ready.
The government also detailed the proposed extension of business support programs, including the proposed extension of the Wage Subsidy, Rent Subsidy, and Lockdown Support until September 25, 2021. These programs are currently set to expire this month. Both the Hiring Program and proposed extensions are part of Bill C-30, the Budget Implementation Act, which is currently before Parliament.
The Hiring Program is designed to interact with the Wage Subsidy. The programs overlap so that, as Wage Subsidy rates gradually decline, eligible employers would still be able to receive the maximum support from the Hiring Program this summer if they hire more workers or increase workers’ hours or wages. This will make it easy for businesses to quickly hire new workers and do so at a pace that works best for them, as different jurisdictions reopen their economies at different paces.
The government also announced that the Business Credit Availability Program and Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program are being extended to December 31, 2021. Both programs were set to expire on June 30, 2021.
Quick facts
Excerpts from Government of Canada News Release, June 2, 2021
The new Canada Recovery Hiring Program will be available retroactively to June 6, 2021.
The proposed Canada Recovery Hiring Program would help hard hit businesses hire the workers they need to recover and grow as local economies reopen. The program would provide a subsidy of up to 50 per cent of eligible salary or wages. It would be available to eligible employers who have experienced qualifying revenue declines so they can hire more workers, increase workers’ hours, or increase wages. This support would afford businesses with certainty that they can take on the extra costs needed to rehire and be ready to return to growth. Like with the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, businesses would be able to access the program through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Support would be available retroactively to this Sunday, June 6, 2021, and businesses would be able to hire workers as their local economy reopens, or as they are ready.
The government also detailed the proposed extension of business support programs, including the proposed extension of the Wage Subsidy, Rent Subsidy, and Lockdown Support until September 25, 2021. These programs are currently set to expire this month. Both the Hiring Program and proposed extensions are part of Bill C-30, the Budget Implementation Act, which is currently before Parliament.
The Hiring Program is designed to interact with the Wage Subsidy. The programs overlap so that, as Wage Subsidy rates gradually decline, eligible employers would still be able to receive the maximum support from the Hiring Program this summer if they hire more workers or increase workers’ hours or wages. This will make it easy for businesses to quickly hire new workers and do so at a pace that works best for them, as different jurisdictions reopen their economies at different paces.
The government also announced that the Business Credit Availability Program and Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program are being extended to December 31, 2021. Both programs were set to expire on June 30, 2021.
Quick facts
- The proposed Canada Recovery Hiring Program would be available to support active employees from June 6, 2021 to November 20, 2021. This will allow eligible employers to use the program at a pace that works for them.
- As with the Wage Subsidy, eligible employers would receive support after each four week period of the program.
- Support would be available retroactively once Bill C-30 receives Royal Assent.
- Eligible employers would be able to access support through the CRA and the application portal would be available after Royal Assent.
- The program is estimated to cost $595 million in 2021-22.
- The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy is currently set to expire in June 2021.
- To give workers and employers certainty and stability over the coming months, the recent federal budget proposed to extend the Wage Subsidy until September 25, 2021.
- This extension would see a gradual decrease of the Wage Subsidy rate, beginning July 4, 2021, in order to ensure an orderly phase-out of the program as the economy reopens.
- Employers would be able to shift to the Canada Recovery Hiring Program as they transition to recovery and hire new workers.
- The Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support program is currently set to expire in June 2021.
- To bridge Canadians through to recovery, the recent federal budget proposed to extend the Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support until September 25, 2021.
- This extension would see a gradual decrease of the Rent Subsidy rate, beginning July 4, 2021, in order to ensure an orderly phase-out of this program as the economy reopens.
- The Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) loan guarantee and co-lending programs provide credit of up to $6.25 million and $12.5 million respectively. BCAP also provides support for mid-sized businesses including loans of up to $60 million per company, and guarantees of up to $80 million.
- Through the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program(HASCAP), BDC partners with participating Canadian financial institutions to offer government-guaranteed, low-interest loans of $25,000 to $1 million to businesses across the country, with repayment periods of up to 10 years, in all sectors that have been hit hard by the pandemic. This includes restaurants, businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and those that rely on in-person service.
- For additional information on BCAP or HASCAP or to apply, businesses should contact their primary financial institution with whom they have a pre-existing relationship.
Ontario Releases Three-Step Roadmap to Safely Reopen the Province
Excerpts from Government of Ontario Media Release, May 20, 2021
The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has released its Roadmap to Reopen, a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the provincewide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators. In response to recent improvements to these indicators, Ontario will allow more outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.
Roadmap to Reopen outlines three steps to easing public health measures, guided by the following principles:
The province will remain in each step for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If at the end of the 21 days, the following vaccination thresholds have been met, along with positive trends in other key public health and health system indicators, then the province will move to the next step:
Based on current trends in key health indicators, including the provincial vaccination rate, the government expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14, 2021. The province will confirm closer to the expected start of Step One.
The provincewide emergency brake restrictions remain in effect while the province assesses when it will be moving to Step One of the roadmap with the Stay at Home order expiring on June 2, 2021. During this time, the government will continue to work with stakeholders on reopening plans to ensure full awareness of when and how they can begin to safely reopen.
Effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. the province will reopen outdoor recreational amenities with restrictions in place, such as the need to maintain physical distancing. These amenities include but are not limited to golf courses and driving ranges, soccer and other sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and skate parks. No outdoor sports or recreational classes are permitted. Outdoor limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to five people, which will allow these amenities to be used for up to five people, including with members of different households. All other public health and workplace safety measures under the provincewide emergency brake will remain in effect.
At this time, publicly funded and private elementary and secondary schools in the province will continue to operate under teacher-led remote learning. Data will be assessed on an ongoing basis and medical experts, including the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and other health officials will be consulted to determine if it may be safe to resume in-person learning.
Learn more about the Roadmap to Reopen
Excerpts from Government of Ontario Media Release, May 20, 2021
The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has released its Roadmap to Reopen, a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the provincewide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators. In response to recent improvements to these indicators, Ontario will allow more outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.
Roadmap to Reopen outlines three steps to easing public health measures, guided by the following principles:
- Step One An initial focus on resuming outdoor activities with smaller crowds where the risk of transmission is lower, and permitting retail with restrictions. This includes allowing outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people, outdoor dining with up to four people per table and non-essential retail at 15 per cent capacity.
- Step Two Further expanding outdoor activities and resuming limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn. This includes outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people, outdoor sports and leagues, overnight camps, personal care services where face coverings can be worn and with capacity limits, as well as indoor religious services, rites or ceremony gatherings at 15 per cent capacity.
- Step Three Expanding access to indoor settings, with restrictions, including where there are larger numbers of people and where face coverings can’t always be worn. This includes indoor sports and recreational fitness; indoor dining, museums, art galleries and libraries, and casinos and bingo halls, with capacity limits.
The province will remain in each step for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If at the end of the 21 days, the following vaccination thresholds have been met, along with positive trends in other key public health and health system indicators, then the province will move to the next step:
- Step 1: 60 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose.
- Step 2: 70 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 20 per cent vaccinated with two doses.
- Step 3: 70 to 80 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 25 per cent vaccinated with two doses.
Based on current trends in key health indicators, including the provincial vaccination rate, the government expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14, 2021. The province will confirm closer to the expected start of Step One.
The provincewide emergency brake restrictions remain in effect while the province assesses when it will be moving to Step One of the roadmap with the Stay at Home order expiring on June 2, 2021. During this time, the government will continue to work with stakeholders on reopening plans to ensure full awareness of when and how they can begin to safely reopen.
Effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m. the province will reopen outdoor recreational amenities with restrictions in place, such as the need to maintain physical distancing. These amenities include but are not limited to golf courses and driving ranges, soccer and other sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and skate parks. No outdoor sports or recreational classes are permitted. Outdoor limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to five people, which will allow these amenities to be used for up to five people, including with members of different households. All other public health and workplace safety measures under the provincewide emergency brake will remain in effect.
At this time, publicly funded and private elementary and secondary schools in the province will continue to operate under teacher-led remote learning. Data will be assessed on an ongoing basis and medical experts, including the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and other health officials will be consulted to determine if it may be safe to resume in-person learning.
Learn more about the Roadmap to Reopen
Arts Alive Fund Now Accepting Applications for Grants up to $10,000
Local arts organizations are now eligible to apply for Strategic Recovery and Resilience Grants through the Peterborough Arts Alive Fund. An initiative of Electric City Culture Council (EC3) in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, the Arts Alive Fund will provide grants of up to $10,000 to support local arts organizations recovering from the pandemic. Local arts organizations working in any discipline and in any capacity (creation, production, exhibition, presentation, performance, etc.) are eligible to apply for funding to assist them in managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, respond creatively to the current situation and prepare to effectively reopen and relaunch when they can.
Read eligibility criteria
Apply for the grant
Local arts organizations are now eligible to apply for Strategic Recovery and Resilience Grants through the Peterborough Arts Alive Fund. An initiative of Electric City Culture Council (EC3) in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, the Arts Alive Fund will provide grants of up to $10,000 to support local arts organizations recovering from the pandemic. Local arts organizations working in any discipline and in any capacity (creation, production, exhibition, presentation, performance, etc.) are eligible to apply for funding to assist them in managing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, respond creatively to the current situation and prepare to effectively reopen and relaunch when they can.
Read eligibility criteria
Apply for the grant
Province Launches New Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant
Applications open for eligible small businesses in tourism and travel industries
Excerpts from Government of Ontario Media Release, May 13, 2021
The Ontario government is providing one‐time payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to support eligible small tourism and travel businesses struggling to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through the new $100-million Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant.
This grant will support eligible small tourism and travel businesses that did not receive the Ontario Small Business Support Grant (OSBSG), such as travel agents, hotels, motels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts. To qualify, businesses must have fewer than 100 employees and demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent revenue decline between 2019 and 2020.
Small business owners can use the grant in whatever way makes the most sense for their business. Applications for this grant will close on Friday, June 25, 2021.
For information on eligibility and how to apply: www.ontario.ca/covidsupport.
Applications open for eligible small businesses in tourism and travel industries
Excerpts from Government of Ontario Media Release, May 13, 2021
The Ontario government is providing one‐time payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to support eligible small tourism and travel businesses struggling to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through the new $100-million Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant.
This grant will support eligible small tourism and travel businesses that did not receive the Ontario Small Business Support Grant (OSBSG), such as travel agents, hotels, motels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts. To qualify, businesses must have fewer than 100 employees and demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent revenue decline between 2019 and 2020.
Small business owners can use the grant in whatever way makes the most sense for their business. Applications for this grant will close on Friday, June 25, 2021.
For information on eligibility and how to apply: www.ontario.ca/covidsupport.
Ontario Continues to Expand Access to Rapid Testing for Workplaces
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, May 12, 2021
The Ontario government has launched a new rapid testing portal to make it easier for all essential businesses to access free rapid testing to help keep employees and their families safe.
Businesses are encouraged to participate in the program by registering at ontario.ca/testingonsite. It provides free rapid antigen screening kits to help screen for asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 that might otherwise be missed. It is one more way that businesses can help workers and their families stay safe and keep the virus out of workplaces. Program eligibility was recently expanded to include any business that is allowed to be open and requires staff to work on-site.
As the results of positive PCR tests are already reported to local public health units (PHUs) through the provincial lab network, the Ministry of Health is updating program requirements so organizations providing rapid antigen screening will no longer have to report preliminary positive results to PHUs, nor will they be required to report results of confirmatory lab-based PCR tests to the province. These changes will help encourage greater use of rapid testing by reducing the administrative burden and implementation barriers for all organizations and workplaces, while still maintaining strong public health and safety measures.
Quick Facts
Learn more about the rapid testing portal
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, May 12, 2021
The Ontario government has launched a new rapid testing portal to make it easier for all essential businesses to access free rapid testing to help keep employees and their families safe.
Businesses are encouraged to participate in the program by registering at ontario.ca/testingonsite. It provides free rapid antigen screening kits to help screen for asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 that might otherwise be missed. It is one more way that businesses can help workers and their families stay safe and keep the virus out of workplaces. Program eligibility was recently expanded to include any business that is allowed to be open and requires staff to work on-site.
As the results of positive PCR tests are already reported to local public health units (PHUs) through the provincial lab network, the Ministry of Health is updating program requirements so organizations providing rapid antigen screening will no longer have to report preliminary positive results to PHUs, nor will they be required to report results of confirmatory lab-based PCR tests to the province. These changes will help encourage greater use of rapid testing by reducing the administrative burden and implementation barriers for all organizations and workplaces, while still maintaining strong public health and safety measures.
Quick Facts
- A COVID-19 rapid screening test can be performed anywhere (e.g., on-site, at the place of employment) and does not require shipping a specimen to a lab for processing. It takes about 15 minutes to yield a result.
- Rapid antigen point-of-care testing does not replace public health measures, such as symptom screening, physical distancing, masking and hand hygiene. Any positive results from a rapid antigen point-of-care test must be confirmed with laboratory-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.
- Organizations participating in the Provincial Antigen Screening Program can now search for a service provider offering point-of-care rapid testing services through a directory on the Ontario Together website. Service providers offering point-of-care COVID-19 testing services can also apply to be listed.
Learn more about the rapid testing portal
Ontario COVID-19 Worker Income Protection Benefit
Learn about the Ontario Government’s plan to offer paid leave for COVID-19
On April 29, 2021, the Ontario Government amended the Employment Standards Act, 2000 to require employers to provide employees with up to three days of paid leave for reasons related to COVID-19.
Paid leave is available for certain reasons related to COVID-19, including:
The government will continue to update this page with current information. For more information please call the Ontario COVID-19 Worker Income Protection Benefit Information Centre 1-888-999-2248 ( TTY: 1-866-567-8893).
Employers will be required to pay employees up to $200 a day for up to three days. The three days would not need to be taken consecutively.
Eligibility
The three days of paid leave would only be available to employees who:
Doctor’s note not required
Employers cannot require an employee to provide a certificate from a doctor or nurse as evidence.
Employer reimbursement for paid leave
Eligible employers would be able to apply for a reimbursement of up to $200 per employee day taken, from the Ontario government. If the employee’s regular rate of pay is less than $200 day, the employer will only be eligible for a reimbursement of the employee’s regular rate of pay.
Eligible employers would need to make their application for reimbursement within 120 days of the paid leave. More information on how employers can apply will be available on this page soon.
Effective Period
This program will be retroactive to April 19, 2021 and effective until September 25, 2021, the date the CRSB will expire.
Example
Sofia works in a grocery store stocking shelves. She normally makes $16 an hour and works 8-hour shifts, which is $128 per day. Her employer does not already offer paid leave. If Sofia is feeling unwell and takes a day off work to go for a COVID-19 test, her employer would be required to pay her regular rate of pay for that day and could apply for a reimbursement of $128 from the Ontario government for the wages she was paid while off work, if the legislation is passed.
Financial support for longer term absences
If an eligible worker learns that they must isolate for longer than 50 per cent of the time they would have otherwise worked for the week, whether because of a positive COVID-19 test or risk of exposure, they may apply for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit if they haven’t taken a paid leave day under this proposal.
The Ontario government continues to work with the federal government to further support vulnerable workers by doubling payments made through the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit program. If this change is accepted, it would provide an additional $500 per week to eligible individuals for a total of $1,000 per week.
Employers and their workers can call a dedicated COVID-19 Sick Days Information Centre hotline at 1-888-999-2248 or visit Ontario.ca/COVIDworkerbenefit to get more information and updates about the proposed Ontario COVID-19 paid leave days.
The province continues to visit workplaces to ensure they are adhering to COVID-19 safety requirements.
Learn about the Ontario Government’s plan to offer paid leave for COVID-19
On April 29, 2021, the Ontario Government amended the Employment Standards Act, 2000 to require employers to provide employees with up to three days of paid leave for reasons related to COVID-19.
Paid leave is available for certain reasons related to COVID-19, including:
- going for a COVID-19 test
- staying home awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test
- being sick with COVID-19
- going to get vaccinated
- experiencing a side effect from a COVID-19 vaccination
- having been advised to self-isolate due to COVID-19 by an employer, medical practitioner or other authority
- taking care of a dependent who is:
- sick with COVID-19 or has symptoms of COVID-19
- self-isolating due to COVID-19
The government will continue to update this page with current information. For more information please call the Ontario COVID-19 Worker Income Protection Benefit Information Centre 1-888-999-2248 ( TTY: 1-866-567-8893).
Employers will be required to pay employees up to $200 a day for up to three days. The three days would not need to be taken consecutively.
Eligibility
The three days of paid leave would only be available to employees who:
- are covered by the Employment Standards Act (ESA) (independent contractors or federally regulated employees would not qualify for these days. Learn more about who is an employee under the ESA.)
- do not already receive paid sick time through their employer
Doctor’s note not required
Employers cannot require an employee to provide a certificate from a doctor or nurse as evidence.
Employer reimbursement for paid leave
Eligible employers would be able to apply for a reimbursement of up to $200 per employee day taken, from the Ontario government. If the employee’s regular rate of pay is less than $200 day, the employer will only be eligible for a reimbursement of the employee’s regular rate of pay.
Eligible employers would need to make their application for reimbursement within 120 days of the paid leave. More information on how employers can apply will be available on this page soon.
Effective Period
This program will be retroactive to April 19, 2021 and effective until September 25, 2021, the date the CRSB will expire.
Example
Sofia works in a grocery store stocking shelves. She normally makes $16 an hour and works 8-hour shifts, which is $128 per day. Her employer does not already offer paid leave. If Sofia is feeling unwell and takes a day off work to go for a COVID-19 test, her employer would be required to pay her regular rate of pay for that day and could apply for a reimbursement of $128 from the Ontario government for the wages she was paid while off work, if the legislation is passed.
Financial support for longer term absences
If an eligible worker learns that they must isolate for longer than 50 per cent of the time they would have otherwise worked for the week, whether because of a positive COVID-19 test or risk of exposure, they may apply for the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit if they haven’t taken a paid leave day under this proposal.
The Ontario government continues to work with the federal government to further support vulnerable workers by doubling payments made through the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit program. If this change is accepted, it would provide an additional $500 per week to eligible individuals for a total of $1,000 per week.
Employers and their workers can call a dedicated COVID-19 Sick Days Information Centre hotline at 1-888-999-2248 or visit Ontario.ca/COVIDworkerbenefit to get more information and updates about the proposed Ontario COVID-19 paid leave days.
The province continues to visit workplaces to ensure they are adhering to COVID-19 safety requirements.
Budget 2021 Support for Small Business
Excerpts from Government of Canada 2021 Budget Backgrounder
Extension of Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support Beyond June 2021
The wage subsidy, the rent subsidy, and Lockdown Support programs are currently set to expire in June 2021. In order to bridge Canadians through the rest of this crisis to recovery, continued support is needed. To give workers and employers certainty and stability over the coming months:
Further details on these measures can be found in Annex 6 of the budget.
Extending the Canada Emergency Business Account
The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) has provided interest-free, partially forgivable loans to more than 850,000 Canadian small businesses. In December 2020, the government increased the value of the loan from $40,000 to $60,000 to help small businesses bridge to recovery. If a business repays their loans by December 31, 2022, up to a third of the value of their loans (meaning up to $20,000) will be forgiven. In further recognition of the ongoing pandemic, the government recently extended the application deadline for CEBA to June 30, 2021.
A small number of businesses have faced challenges accessing the program, including Indigenous and rural businesses. To make sure these businesses are not left behind, the government provides similar support through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund and Indigenous Business Initiative. To make sure these businesses can continue to access support:
Helping Hard-hit Businesses Hire More Workers
For businesses that have been hit hardest by the pandemic, hiring the workers they need to grow is a cost they may worry about taking on. The government wants these businesses to be able to recover and grow by hiring more people so that workers are at the forefront of our recovery:
Helping Small and Medium-sized Businesses Move into the Digital Age
The pandemic has hastened the economy's digital transformation as companies, workers, and consumers conduct more and more business online. Canadian businesses need to adopt new technologies and digitize to meet customer needs and stay competitive.
To fuel the recovery, jobs, and growth, the government is launching the Canada Digital Adoption Program, which will create thousands of jobs for young Canadians and help as many as 160,000 small- and medium-sized businesses adopt new digital technologies.
This program will provide businesses with two streams of support. Eligible businesses will receive micro-grants to help offset the costs of going digital—and provide support to digital trainers from a network of up to 28,000 well trained young Canadians.
Supporting Business Investments
For Canada's economic recovery to take root, businesses will need to invest in new technologies and move forward with capital projects. Building on the significant tax incentives introduced in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, additional support is needed to further boost business investments that will create jobs today and in the future.
Enhancing the Canada Small Business Financing Program
Small businesses need access to financing in order to invest in people and innovation, and to have the space to operate and grow. To make sure small business and independent entrepreneurs can access the capital they need to recover, innovate, and grow in the long-term:
Lowering the Cost of Doing Business by Reducing Credit Card Transaction Fees
The pandemic has brought about a rapid and significant increase in electronic payments and online transactions. Small- and medium-sized businesses, which have been hard hit by COVID-19, incur fees for these transactions, also known as interchange fees, which are amongst the highest in the world.
The government will engage with key stakeholders to work towards three objectives:
Removing Barriers to Internal Trade
For too long, trade barriers within our own country have held back Canadian businesses from reaching the full force of the Canadian market. Removing barriers to trade between provinces and territories will help build a more prosperous economy—creating jobs, fueling business expansion, expanding consumer choice of Canadian goods and services, and helping regional economies grow.
Supporting Jobs and Growth in All Communities
As Canada builds back better, no community will be left behind. From the outset of the pandemic, regional development agencies have been on the ground across Canada, helping businesses weather the effects of the pandemic. Through the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund, they have been providing liquidity to businesses, helping bridge them to the recovery, and preserving more than 125,000 jobs. To ensure businesses in every corner of Canada have the support they need to get through the pandemic and that they are brought along in our economic recovery:
Canada Community Revitalization Fund
Main streets, farmers' markets, and other gathering places underpin local economies. In many communities, the most vibrant spaces in our communities have laid dormant as Canadians took precautions to stay safe. Recognizing that economic recovery is tightly linked to the vitality of our local communities:
Read the full Backgrounder
Excerpts from Government of Canada 2021 Budget Backgrounder
Extension of Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support Beyond June 2021
The wage subsidy, the rent subsidy, and Lockdown Support programs are currently set to expire in June 2021. In order to bridge Canadians through the rest of this crisis to recovery, continued support is needed. To give workers and employers certainty and stability over the coming months:
- Budget 2021 proposes to extend the wage subsidy, the rent subsidy, and Lockdown Support until September 25, 2021. It also proposes to gradually decrease the rates for the wage subsidy and rent subsidy, beginning July 4, 2021, in order to ensure an orderly phase-out of the programs as vaccinations are completed and the economy reopens.
Further details on these measures can be found in Annex 6 of the budget.
Extending the Canada Emergency Business Account
The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) has provided interest-free, partially forgivable loans to more than 850,000 Canadian small businesses. In December 2020, the government increased the value of the loan from $40,000 to $60,000 to help small businesses bridge to recovery. If a business repays their loans by December 31, 2022, up to a third of the value of their loans (meaning up to $20,000) will be forgiven. In further recognition of the ongoing pandemic, the government recently extended the application deadline for CEBA to June 30, 2021.
A small number of businesses have faced challenges accessing the program, including Indigenous and rural businesses. To make sure these businesses are not left behind, the government provides similar support through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund and Indigenous Business Initiative. To make sure these businesses can continue to access support:
- Budget 2021 proposes to extend the application deadline for similar support under the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund and the Indigenous Business Initiative until June 30, 2021.
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide up to $80 million in 2021-22, on a cash basis, for the Community Futures Network of Canada and regional development agencies, and to shift remaining funds under the Indigenous Business Initiative into 2021-22, to support an extended application deadline for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund and Indigenous Business Initiative until June 30, 2021. This would support small businesses in rural communities so they can continue to serve local populations.
Helping Hard-hit Businesses Hire More Workers
For businesses that have been hit hardest by the pandemic, hiring the workers they need to grow is a cost they may worry about taking on. The government wants these businesses to be able to recover and grow by hiring more people so that workers are at the forefront of our recovery:
- Budget 2021 proposes to introduce the new Canada Recovery Hiring Program for eligible employers that continue to experience qualifying declines in revenues relative to before the pandemic. The proposed subsidy would offset a portion of the extra costs employers take on as they reopen, either by increasing wages or hours worked, or hiring more staff. This support would only be available for active employees and will be available from June 6 to November 20, 2021. Eligible employers would claim the higher of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or the new proposed subsidy. The aim is to make it as easy as possible for businesses to hire new workers as the economy reopens.
Helping Small and Medium-sized Businesses Move into the Digital Age
The pandemic has hastened the economy's digital transformation as companies, workers, and consumers conduct more and more business online. Canadian businesses need to adopt new technologies and digitize to meet customer needs and stay competitive.
To fuel the recovery, jobs, and growth, the government is launching the Canada Digital Adoption Program, which will create thousands of jobs for young Canadians and help as many as 160,000 small- and medium-sized businesses adopt new digital technologies.
This program will provide businesses with two streams of support. Eligible businesses will receive micro-grants to help offset the costs of going digital—and provide support to digital trainers from a network of up to 28,000 well trained young Canadians.
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide $1.4 billion over four years, starting in 2021-22, to:
- Work with organizations across Canada to provide access to skills, training, and advisory services for all businesses accessing this program.
- Provide micro-grants to smaller, main street businesses to support costs associated with technology adoption.
- Create training and work opportunities for as many as 28,000 young people to help small- and medium-sized businesses across Canada adopt new technology.
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide $2.6 billion over four years, on a cash basis, starting in 2021-22, to the Business Development Bank of Canada to help small- and medium-sized businesses finance technology adoption.
Supporting Business Investments
For Canada's economic recovery to take root, businesses will need to invest in new technologies and move forward with capital projects. Building on the significant tax incentives introduced in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, additional support is needed to further boost business investments that will create jobs today and in the future.
- Budget 2021 proposes to allow immediate expensing of up to $1.5 million of eligible investments by Canadian-controlled private corporations made on or after Budget Day, and before 2024. Eligible investments will cover over 60 per cent of capital investments typically made by Canadian-controlled private corporations.
Enhancing the Canada Small Business Financing Program
Small businesses need access to financing in order to invest in people and innovation, and to have the space to operate and grow. To make sure small business and independent entrepreneurs can access the capital they need to recover, innovate, and grow in the long-term:
- Budget 2021 proposes to improve the Canada Small Business Financing Program through amendments to the Canada Small Business Financing Act and its regulations. These proposed amendments are projected to increase annual financing by $560 million, supporting approximately 2,900 additional small businesses. Proposed amendments include:
- Expanding loan class eligibility to include lending against intellectual property and start-up assets and expenses.
- Increasing the maximum loan amount from $350,000 to $500,000 and extending the loan coverage period from 10 to 15 years for equipment and leasehold improvements.
- Expanding borrower eligibility to include non-profit and charitable social enterprises.
- Introducing a new line of credit product to help with liquidity and cover short-term working capital needs.
Lowering the Cost of Doing Business by Reducing Credit Card Transaction Fees
The pandemic has brought about a rapid and significant increase in electronic payments and online transactions. Small- and medium-sized businesses, which have been hard hit by COVID-19, incur fees for these transactions, also known as interchange fees, which are amongst the highest in the world.
The government will engage with key stakeholders to work towards three objectives:
- Lower the average overall cost of interchange fees for merchants.
- Ensure that small businesses benefit from pricing that is similar to large businesses.
- Protect existing rewards points of consumers.
Removing Barriers to Internal Trade
For too long, trade barriers within our own country have held back Canadian businesses from reaching the full force of the Canadian market. Removing barriers to trade between provinces and territories will help build a more prosperous economy—creating jobs, fueling business expansion, expanding consumer choice of Canadian goods and services, and helping regional economies grow.
- Budget 2021 proposes to allocate $21 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, to:
- Work with provincial and territorial partners to enhance the capacity of the Internal Trade Secretariat that supports the Canadian Free Trade Agreement in order to accelerate the reduction of trade barriers within Canada.
- Advance work with willing partners towards creating a repository of open and accessible pan-Canadian internal trade data to identify barriers, including licensing and professional certification requirements, that we can work together to reduce them.
- Pursue internal trade objectives through new or renewed discretionary federal transfers to provinces and territories.
Supporting Jobs and Growth in All Communities
As Canada builds back better, no community will be left behind. From the outset of the pandemic, regional development agencies have been on the ground across Canada, helping businesses weather the effects of the pandemic. Through the $2 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund, they have been providing liquidity to businesses, helping bridge them to the recovery, and preserving more than 125,000 jobs. To ensure businesses in every corner of Canada have the support they need to get through the pandemic and that they are brought along in our economic recovery:
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide $700 million over three years, starting in 2021-22, for the regional development agencies to support business financing. This would position local economies for long-term growth by transitioning to a green economy, fostering an inclusive recovery, enhancing competitiveness, and creating jobs in every corner of the country.
- Budget 2021 proposes to create a new agency for British Columbia and to provide $553.1 million over five years, starting in 2021 22, and $110.6 million ongoing, to support the new agency and ensure businesses in B.C. can grow and create good jobs for British Columbians. Existing core program funding from Western Economic Diversification will remain to support the Prairies, making additional support available for businesses in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
- Furthermore, the federal government will work to make FedNor a standalone regional development agency and strengthen the economic development of Northern Ontario.
Canada Community Revitalization Fund
Main streets, farmers' markets, and other gathering places underpin local economies. In many communities, the most vibrant spaces in our communities have laid dormant as Canadians took precautions to stay safe. Recognizing that economic recovery is tightly linked to the vitality of our local communities:
- Budget 2021 proposes to provide $500 million over two years, starting in 2021-22, to the regional development agencies for community infrastructure. These projects will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians from coast to coast to coast.
- Budget 2021 includes $101.4 billion over three years in proposed investments as part of the Government of Canada’s growth plan that will create good jobs and support a resilient and inclusive recovery. Key measures include:
- Establishing a Canada-wide early learning and child care system, in partnership with provincial, territorial, and Indigenous partners, which will help all families access affordable, high-quality, and flexible child care no matter where they live, and no longer shoulder the burden of high child care costs. The budget proposes new investments totalling almost $30 billion over the next five years and $8.3 billion ongoing to support this vision.
- Extending emergency supports to bridge Canadians and Canadian businesses through to recovery, including:
- Extending the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support until September 25, 2021.
- Extending the number of weeks available for important income support for Canadians such as the Canada Recovery Benefit and the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit.
- Enhancing Employment Insurance sickness benefits from 15 to 26 weeks.
- Supporting small and medium-sized businesses through several transformative programs, such as:
- A new Canada Digital Adoption Program that will assist over 160,000 businesses with the cost of new technology. And it will provide them with the advice they need to get the most of new technology with the help of 28,000 young Canadians who will be trained to work with them.
- Allowing Canadian small businesses to fully expense up to $1.5 million in capital investments in a broad range of assets, including digital technology and intellectual property. This represents an additional $2.2 billion investment in the growth of Canada’s entrepreneurs over the next five years.
- Revitalizing Canada’s tourism sector through $1 billion to help tourism businesses recover and support festivals and cultural events that provide jobs and growth in many of our cities and communities.
- Supporting women, Black Canadians, and other underrepresented entrepreneurs who face barriers to launching and owning businesses through $300 million to enhance initiatives like the Black Entrepreneurship Program and the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy.
Read the full Backgrounder
Ontario Helps Farmers and Agri-food Operators Keep Workers Safe During COVID-19
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, April 8, 2021
The Ontario government is providing $10 million to allow more farmers and agri-food operators to purchase personal protective equipment, enhance cleaning and disinfection and redesign workstations to better protect workers. This announcement is part of the 2021 Budget, Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy.
Under the new Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program, farms and agri-food businesses that hire three or more employees will be eligible for funding. Additional businesses and workers will be eligible including corn detasselers, transporters, hatcheries, and primary processing (e.g., cutting, cleaning, packaging, storage and refrigeration of raw plant foods to prevent food from spoiling before it reaches consumers).
The funding will help farmers who experience unexpected costs for short-term or temporary housing and transportation as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak among on-farm employees. In addition, increased flexibility has been built into the program to ensure it can respond to emerging issues and risks.
Detailed program information and application forms will be available when the intake opens on April 22, 2021 and cover costs retroactive to March 13, 2021. Applications will be accepted while funding is available or until November 30, 2021. The approval process has been simplified and will be expedited to help support workplace health and safety in the agri-food sector.
Last year’s Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program (EAWPP) committed $26.6 million to help farmers and other agri-food places with expenses related to protecting workers against COVID-19.
Ontario is encouraging the use of rapid antigen point-of-care tests by agri-food businesses, including primary agricultural production, food and beverage processing and key distribution centres. Businesses who are interested in participating can contact omafra.labour@ontario.ca for more information on how to join this free program.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, April 8, 2021
The Ontario government is providing $10 million to allow more farmers and agri-food operators to purchase personal protective equipment, enhance cleaning and disinfection and redesign workstations to better protect workers. This announcement is part of the 2021 Budget, Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy.
Under the new Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program, farms and agri-food businesses that hire three or more employees will be eligible for funding. Additional businesses and workers will be eligible including corn detasselers, transporters, hatcheries, and primary processing (e.g., cutting, cleaning, packaging, storage and refrigeration of raw plant foods to prevent food from spoiling before it reaches consumers).
The funding will help farmers who experience unexpected costs for short-term or temporary housing and transportation as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak among on-farm employees. In addition, increased flexibility has been built into the program to ensure it can respond to emerging issues and risks.
Detailed program information and application forms will be available when the intake opens on April 22, 2021 and cover costs retroactive to March 13, 2021. Applications will be accepted while funding is available or until November 30, 2021. The approval process has been simplified and will be expedited to help support workplace health and safety in the agri-food sector.
Last year’s Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program (EAWPP) committed $26.6 million to help farmers and other agri-food places with expenses related to protecting workers against COVID-19.
Ontario is encouraging the use of rapid antigen point-of-care tests by agri-food businesses, including primary agricultural production, food and beverage processing and key distribution centres. Businesses who are interested in participating can contact omafra.labour@ontario.ca for more information on how to join this free program.
2021 Ontario Budget: Highlights for Business
From Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy
Doubling the Ontario Small Business Support Grant
Enhancing the Digital Main Street Program
Introducing the Ontario Tourism Recovery Program
Encouraging Residents to Vacation within Ontario when it is Safe
Supporting Ontario’s Regional Tourism Organizations
Standing Behind Ontario’s Arts Community
Providing More Opportunities to Enjoy Ontario Parks
Providing Financial Relief for Resource‑Based Tourism Businesses
Investing in Sport and Community Infrastructure
Supporting Local Alcohol Producers
Protecting and Supporting the Agri-Food Sector
Accelerating Ontario’s Broadband and Cellular Action Plan
From Ontario's Action Plan: Protecting People's Health and Our Economy
Doubling the Ontario Small Business Support Grant
- Providing a second round of Ontario Small Business Support Grant payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to eligible recipients. Small businesses who are confirmed eligible recipients of the Ontario Small Business Support Grant will be automatically entitled to a second payment in an amount equal to the first payment they received. They will not need to apply again to receive this additional funding.
Enhancing the Digital Main Street Program
- In June 2020, Ontario, in partnership with the federal government, announced the Digital Main Street platform, a $57 million program designed to help up to 22,900 Ontario businesses create and enhance their online presence.
- Ontario is investing an additional $10 million in the Digital Main Street program in 2021–22 to help more small businesses achieve a digital transformation and serve customers effectively online. The program will continue to provide digital transformation grants, an online learning platform, training programs, and Digital Service Squads offering technical support to small business owners.
- This grant will provide an estimated $100 million in one‑time payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to eligible small businesses.
- Examples of Eligible Businesses for the Ontario Tourism and Hospitality Small Business Support Grant
- Hotels
- Motels
- Travel Agencies
- Amusement and Water Parks
- Hunting and Fishing Camps
- Recreational and Vacation Camps (e.g., children’s overnight summer camps)
- Businesses must demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent revenue decline and have less than 100 employees to qualify. Any small businesses that received the Ontario Small Business Support Grant will not be eligible for this new grant.
- Applying online will be easy.
- Further details can be obtained at Ontario.ca/COVIDsupport.
Introducing the Ontario Tourism Recovery Program
- A new $100 million initiative for 2021–22 to help tourism operators, anchor businesses and attractions recover from the impacts of COVID‑19. This initiative will provide support for historically successful businesses that have helped to drive employment and visitation in their regions by assisting with costs related to restructuring, safe reopening, recalibrated marketing activities and partnership development.
Encouraging Residents to Vacation within Ontario when it is Safe
- The government has set aside $150 million and intends to introduce legislation for a tax credit to encourage residents to explore Ontario when public health experts advise that it is safe to travel.
Supporting Ontario’s Regional Tourism Organizations
- Ontario is committing to supporting tourism across the province through increased funding of up to $15 million for the Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) in 2021–22.
Standing Behind Ontario’s Arts Community
- The government is increasing its investment in Ontario’s arts community by $10 million in 2021–22. With support from the Ontario Arts Council (OAC), this increased investment will assist with significant costs incurred when preparing for activities and events that could not go forward in 2020–21. It will also help with financial impacts that occurred from the loss of box office revenue and venue rental income, as well as new costs related to health and safety, and digital or virtual programming. It will also support jobs at the local level for musicians, writers, painters, actors, dancers, stagehands and many others who support Ontario’s arts and culture industry.
Providing More Opportunities to Enjoy Ontario Parks
- Ontario is encouraging visits to provincial parks by offering free day‑use entry on Mondays through Thursdays, from May 1 to September 2 this year.
- Ontario will also invest an estimated $3.9 million over three years to enhance the provincial park experience by using technology to better connect the people of Ontario with a one‑stop shop to help them find recreational opportunities that fit their location and interests. The province and local businesses will collaborate to develop ideas to bolster Ontario’s tourism economy and create new ways to enjoy provincial parks.
Providing Financial Relief for Resource‑Based Tourism Businesses
- Eligible Commercial Outpost Camps and hunting and fishing outfitters would receive another year of relief from certain rents and fees, providing approximately $1.3 million in financial assistance. This relief will help with the recovery of the sector by supporting businesses that employ residents and contribute to local communities.
Investing in Sport and Community Infrastructure
- Ontario is investing around $200 million to provide infrastructure funding to larger, strategic projects and to sports facilities through the newly established Strategic Priorities and Infrastructure Fund. This fund will help address some of the unmet demand under the Community, Culture and Recreation stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), which received more applications than could be funded under that program. The fund will also support the sport and recreation sector, which was one of the hardest hit sectors during the COVID‑19 pandemic.
- The Strategic Priorities and Infrastructure Fund is delivered through two streams. The Priority Local Infrastructure stream will support new build multi‑purpose facilities for community, culture and recreation purposes.
- The Sport and Community Renewal stream provides funding to support the renovation and rehabilitation of sport and community infrastructure.
Supporting Local Alcohol Producers
- To support the recovery and sustainability of Ontario’s wine and agri‑tourism industry, the government is providing a one‑time $10 million grant in 2021 to help wineries and cideries impacted by lockdown measures, and help ensure that agricultural production and local jobs are maintained in Ontario’s rural communities.
- The government is also increasing funding for the Small Distillery Support Program by an additional $1.2 million in 2021–22 to help small distillers recover from the impacts of the COVID‑19 pandemic.
- In addition, the government is extending the funding to 2022–23 for the following programs:
- VQA Wine Support Program ($7.5 million);
- Small Cidery ($1.8 million) and Small Distillery Support Programs ($0.8 million); and
- Marketing, Tourism and Export Development; Performance Measurement and Research and Innovation Development Initiatives ($5.3 million).
Protecting and Supporting the Agri-Food Sector
- The Province is investing $10 million in 2021–22 for a one-year extension to the Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program announced in June 2020. This will support the implementation of measures to prevent and control COVID‑19 and to address unforeseen worker health and safety issues.
Accelerating Ontario’s Broadband and Cellular Action Plan
- Investing $2.8 billion to connect homes, businesses and communities to broadband — which COVID‑19 has demonstrated is a necessity, not a luxury — bringing the Province’s total investment to nearly $4 billion over six years beginning 2019–20.
Extension of Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) to Help Small Businesses
On March 22, the federal government announced that the deadline for new Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) applications has been extended from March 31 to June 30, 2021.
This deadline extension applies to any new applications for CEBA loans of $60,000 or to new applications from businesses that have already received the $40,000 loan and intend to apply for the additional $20,000.
The extension will allow more businesses to access the support they need as Canada’s economy continues to deal with localized public health restrictions and, for a number of businesses, reduced opening hours or reduced demand for services. Extending the application deadline to June 2021 also aligns CEBA with the timelines of other federal government support programs for business.
Learn more about the CEBA
On March 22, the federal government announced that the deadline for new Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) applications has been extended from March 31 to June 30, 2021.
This deadline extension applies to any new applications for CEBA loans of $60,000 or to new applications from businesses that have already received the $40,000 loan and intend to apply for the additional $20,000.
The extension will allow more businesses to access the support they need as Canada’s economy continues to deal with localized public health restrictions and, for a number of businesses, reduced opening hours or reduced demand for services. Extending the application deadline to June 2021 also aligns CEBA with the timelines of other federal government support programs for business.
Learn more about the CEBA
Chamber Issues Letter to Premier Doug Ford
Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce News Release, March 23, 2021
PETERBOROUGH: Businesses in Ontario need a uniform and equitable set of safety standards to govern their ability to serve their customers through this public health crisis.
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, Brampton Board of Trade, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Milton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce, Ottawa Board of Trade, and Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce have all jointly sent a letter to Premier Doug Ford asking for the Province to adopt the Responsible Business Protocol.
The protocol asks the Province to issue restrictions on a business’ ability to serve its customers based on its adherence to health and safety protocols for each business sector instead of a perception of essentiality. At the heart of the protocol is the understanding that compliance with safety standards is an integral part of running a business. It impacts every size and sector, from retail and restaurants to construction and manufacturing.
“We’ve had a year to learn and develop better ways of enacting restrictions for the business community,” says Stuart Harrison, President and CEO of the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce. “We see the Responsible Business Protocol as a way to bring in public health restrictions equally across business sectors and give businesses the stability they need to continue adapting and investing.”
Read the Letter
Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce News Release, March 23, 2021
PETERBOROUGH: Businesses in Ontario need a uniform and equitable set of safety standards to govern their ability to serve their customers through this public health crisis.
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce, Brampton Board of Trade, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Milton Chamber of Commerce, Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce, Ottawa Board of Trade, and Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce have all jointly sent a letter to Premier Doug Ford asking for the Province to adopt the Responsible Business Protocol.
The protocol asks the Province to issue restrictions on a business’ ability to serve its customers based on its adherence to health and safety protocols for each business sector instead of a perception of essentiality. At the heart of the protocol is the understanding that compliance with safety standards is an integral part of running a business. It impacts every size and sector, from retail and restaurants to construction and manufacturing.
“We’ve had a year to learn and develop better ways of enacting restrictions for the business community,” says Stuart Harrison, President and CEO of the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce. “We see the Responsible Business Protocol as a way to bring in public health restrictions equally across business sectors and give businesses the stability they need to continue adapting and investing.”
Read the Letter
Ontario Announces New Grant Program for Non-Profit Tourism, Culture, Sport and Recreation Organizations
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 16, 2021
The Community Building Fund will be administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through two program streams:
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 16, 2021
The Community Building Fund will be administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through two program streams:
- The $55-million operating funding stream will provide community non-profits with the support they need to help sustain their operations and create new experiences and events - such as trail systems, heritage attractions, winter activities and local sport and recreation programming - that are critical to the economic and social well-being of their communities.
- The $50-million capital funding stream will go to municipalities and non-profit organizations to carry out sport- and recreation-facility infrastructure repairs, including retrofits and rehabilitation to meet COVID-19 public health protocol requirements and local community needs.
- Arts and culture, heritage, tourism, sport and recreation non-profit organizations, and Indigenous communities are eligible to apply for the Community Building Fund streams. For more information, eligibility requirements and deadlines, see here.
- For organizations interested in applying for the Community Building Fund, OTF will provide support via webinars and information sessions, as well as one-on-on coaching calls.
Ontario Announces Tourism Economic Recovery Task Force
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 10, 2021
The Ontario government announced the new Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force. It will be chaired by former MPP and Cabinet minister Tim Hudak, and give expert advice and recommendations on how to help the province's $36-billion tourism industry recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mandate of the voluntary task force includes providing strategies and advice that will help position Ontario and its local communities as destinations of choice for travel, as well as identifying products and experiences that enhance destination development. It will also offer a forum for sector partners and leaders to share ideas, collaborate, and provide advice and information to the minister on approaches to support the economic recovery of Ontario's tourism industry. The tourism sector supports more than 400,000 jobs provincewide.
The task force will deliver a report with its recommendations to the minister in spring 2021.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 10, 2021
The Ontario government announced the new Tourism Economic Recovery Ministerial Task Force. It will be chaired by former MPP and Cabinet minister Tim Hudak, and give expert advice and recommendations on how to help the province's $36-billion tourism industry recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mandate of the voluntary task force includes providing strategies and advice that will help position Ontario and its local communities as destinations of choice for travel, as well as identifying products and experiences that enhance destination development. It will also offer a forum for sector partners and leaders to share ideas, collaborate, and provide advice and information to the minister on approaches to support the economic recovery of Ontario's tourism industry. The tourism sector supports more than 400,000 jobs provincewide.
The task force will deliver a report with its recommendations to the minister in spring 2021.
Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) and Lockdown Support Extended
Excerpt from Government of Canada News Conference, March 3, 2021
Canada will extend the current rate structures for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, and Lockdown Support from March 14 - June 5, 2021. This means the maximum subsidy rate for active employees will remain at 75%, the maximum rent subsidy rate will remain at 65%, and Lockdown Support will remain at 25%, providing hard hit businesses with rent support of up to 90%.
Excerpt from Government of Canada News Conference, March 3, 2021
Canada will extend the current rate structures for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, and Lockdown Support from March 14 - June 5, 2021. This means the maximum subsidy rate for active employees will remain at 75%, the maximum rent subsidy rate will remain at 65%, and Lockdown Support will remain at 25%, providing hard hit businesses with rent support of up to 90%.
Tips to Avoid an Inspection Warning or Fine
It's important that we all, as business owners, maintain our focus on remaining open and safe by following the rules.
The rules and guidelines are different for the various business sectors, but we’ve put together some key parts to help everyone keep our community safe and comply with public health regulations.
According to Peterborough Public Health, the main issues were:
Safety plan
Guide for developing your COVID-19 workplace safety plan
From the regulations - O. Reg. 364/20:
3.3 (1) The person responsible for a business that is open shall prepare and make available a safety plan in accordance with this section, or ensure that one is prepared and made available, no later than seven days after the requirement first applies to the person.
(2) The safety plan shall describe the measures and procedures which have been implemented or will be implemented in the business to reduce the transmission risk of COVID-19.
(3) Without limiting the generality of subsection (2), the safety plan shall describe how the requirements of this Order will be implemented in the location including by screening, physical distancing, masks or face coverings, cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and objects and the wearing of personal protective equipment.
(4) The safety plan shall be in writing and shall be made available to any person for review on request.
(5) The person responsible for the business shall ensure that a copy of the safety plan is posted in a conspicuous place where it is most likely to come to the attention of individuals working in or attending the business.
Screening
COVID-19 worker and employee screening - You must screen before going to work each day. (Likewise, it needs to be documented that each employee has screened negative – how this attestation happens is up to each workplace, as long as it is happening - log book, email or text message system, etc.). There are new provincial requirements that if anyone in the household has symptoms, ‘everyone must stay home until the person with symptoms gets a negative COVID-19 test result, or is cleared by public health, or is diagnosed with another illness.
Cleaning and disinfecting
Government information sheet on cleaning and disinfecting
Approved cleaning and disinfecting products from Health Canada
Resources to prevent COVID-19 in the workplace
Find sector-specific guidelines and posters to help protect workers, customers and the general public from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ontario.
Requirements that apply to individuals
Mask wearing requirements, exceptions, and exemptions
Peterborough Public Health has a Q&A resource regarding patrons that don’t wear a mask
Section 13 of the Ontario Human Rights Commission also addresses mask issues:
3.1 (1) Every person on the premises of a business or organization that is open shall wear a mask or face covering in a manner that covers their mouth, nose and chin during any period in which they are in an indoor area of the premises.
(4) Every member of the public in a place of business or facility that is open to the public shall maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from every other person, except from their caregiver or from members of the person’s household.
It's important that we all, as business owners, maintain our focus on remaining open and safe by following the rules.
The rules and guidelines are different for the various business sectors, but we’ve put together some key parts to help everyone keep our community safe and comply with public health regulations.
According to Peterborough Public Health, the main issues were:
- Incomplete or nonexistent safety plans
- Safety plans not posted
- Lack of active screening of staff/workers before entering the workplace
- Ensuring that approved disinfection products are used on high-touch surfaces
Safety plan
Guide for developing your COVID-19 workplace safety plan
From the regulations - O. Reg. 364/20:
3.3 (1) The person responsible for a business that is open shall prepare and make available a safety plan in accordance with this section, or ensure that one is prepared and made available, no later than seven days after the requirement first applies to the person.
(2) The safety plan shall describe the measures and procedures which have been implemented or will be implemented in the business to reduce the transmission risk of COVID-19.
(3) Without limiting the generality of subsection (2), the safety plan shall describe how the requirements of this Order will be implemented in the location including by screening, physical distancing, masks or face coverings, cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces and objects and the wearing of personal protective equipment.
(4) The safety plan shall be in writing and shall be made available to any person for review on request.
(5) The person responsible for the business shall ensure that a copy of the safety plan is posted in a conspicuous place where it is most likely to come to the attention of individuals working in or attending the business.
Screening
COVID-19 worker and employee screening - You must screen before going to work each day. (Likewise, it needs to be documented that each employee has screened negative – how this attestation happens is up to each workplace, as long as it is happening - log book, email or text message system, etc.). There are new provincial requirements that if anyone in the household has symptoms, ‘everyone must stay home until the person with symptoms gets a negative COVID-19 test result, or is cleared by public health, or is diagnosed with another illness.
Cleaning and disinfecting
Government information sheet on cleaning and disinfecting
Approved cleaning and disinfecting products from Health Canada
Resources to prevent COVID-19 in the workplace
Find sector-specific guidelines and posters to help protect workers, customers and the general public from coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ontario.
Requirements that apply to individuals
Mask wearing requirements, exceptions, and exemptions
Peterborough Public Health has a Q&A resource regarding patrons that don’t wear a mask
Section 13 of the Ontario Human Rights Commission also addresses mask issues:
3.1 (1) Every person on the premises of a business or organization that is open shall wear a mask or face covering in a manner that covers their mouth, nose and chin during any period in which they are in an indoor area of the premises.
(4) Every member of the public in a place of business or facility that is open to the public shall maintain a physical distance of at least two metres from every other person, except from their caregiver or from members of the person’s household.
Support for the Arts Sector
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 2, 2021
The Ontario government is supporting the arts sector with a one-time investment of $25 million to help artists and arts organizations survive the COVID-19 pandemic, remain solvent and prepare for a time when they can fully re-open their facilities, resume full programming and welcome back their visitors and audiences.
Arts organizations ($24 million total): Applications are now closed. See the list of approved organizations.
Artists & creators ($1 million total): More information on this, including eligibility requirements and application deadlines, will be available soon on the Ontario Arts Council website.
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, March 2, 2021
The Ontario government is supporting the arts sector with a one-time investment of $25 million to help artists and arts organizations survive the COVID-19 pandemic, remain solvent and prepare for a time when they can fully re-open their facilities, resume full programming and welcome back their visitors and audiences.
Arts organizations ($24 million total): Applications are now closed. See the list of approved organizations.
Artists & creators ($1 million total): More information on this, including eligibility requirements and application deadlines, will be available soon on the Ontario Arts Council website.
Ontario Launches Education Campaign to Help Workplaces Reopen Safely
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, February 19, 2021
The Ontario government is launching new health and safety education campaigns, with a particular focus on helping small businesses across the province reopen safely. The on-the-ground assistance includes a comprehensive suite of resources business owners can access at no cost to ensure they are helping prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.
The full suite of government educational supports available includes:
For more information on these tools, visit covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-help-businesses-ontario.
Other safety resources:
Excerpts from Government of Ontario News Release, February 19, 2021
The Ontario government is launching new health and safety education campaigns, with a particular focus on helping small businesses across the province reopen safely. The on-the-ground assistance includes a comprehensive suite of resources business owners can access at no cost to ensure they are helping prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.
The full suite of government educational supports available includes:
- Free webinars on how to operate a business safely, and comply with health and safety requirements, during COVID-19.
- A free 30-minute online course on infection prevention and control provided by the Public Services Health and Safety Association.
- Provincial Employment Standards Call Centre (webes@ontario.ca) and Occupational Health and Safety Contact Centre (webohs@ontario.ca) to answer small business health and safety questions.
For more information on these tools, visit covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-help-businesses-ontario.
Other safety resources:
- To help businesses understand how to use health and safety guidance to develop a safety plan for their unique situation, the government has developed a toolkit that includes a guide, template and checklist.
- Financial supports for businesses include the Workplace Safety Insurance Board’s Health and Safety Excellence Program, which offer rebates to safe employers.
New Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) Opens February 1
Excerpts from Government of Canada News Release, January 26, 2021
Through HASCAP, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) will work with participating Canadian financial institutions to offer government-guaranteed, low-interest loans of up to $1 million. Hard-hit businesses, like a chain of hotels or restaurants with multiple locations under one related entity, could be eligible for up to $6.25 million. HASCAP will help businesses with their day-to-day operating costs during the COVID-19 crisis and enable them to invest in their longer-term prosperity.
HASCAP is available to businesses across the country, in all sectors, that have been hit hard by the pandemic. This includes restaurants, businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and those that rely on in-person service.
To be eligible for HASCAP, businesses need to show a year-over-year revenue decline of at least 50% in three months, within the eight months prior to their application. They must also be able to show their financial institutions that they have previously applied for either the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy.
Eligible businesses can start applying as early as February 1 at principal financial institutions and more widely by February 15. Interested businesses should contact their primary lender to get more information and to apply.
Learn more about the credit
Excerpts from Government of Canada News Release, January 26, 2021
Through HASCAP, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) will work with participating Canadian financial institutions to offer government-guaranteed, low-interest loans of up to $1 million. Hard-hit businesses, like a chain of hotels or restaurants with multiple locations under one related entity, could be eligible for up to $6.25 million. HASCAP will help businesses with their day-to-day operating costs during the COVID-19 crisis and enable them to invest in their longer-term prosperity.
HASCAP is available to businesses across the country, in all sectors, that have been hit hard by the pandemic. This includes restaurants, businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and those that rely on in-person service.
To be eligible for HASCAP, businesses need to show a year-over-year revenue decline of at least 50% in three months, within the eight months prior to their application. They must also be able to show their financial institutions that they have previously applied for either the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy.
Eligible businesses can start applying as early as February 1 at principal financial institutions and more widely by February 15. Interested businesses should contact their primary lender to get more information and to apply.
Learn more about the credit
REVISED Benefit Amounts & Eligibility Criteria for COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program - Small Business (CEAP-SB)
The Ontario Energy Board updated the eligibility criteria on January 14, 2021, so that more customers may qualify for CEAP-SB. Small business and registered charity electricity or natural gas customers are now eligible for CEAP-SB if they meet all of the following criteria:
Customers who previously applied but were denied will have their original applications reviewed by utilities and will be contacted directly if they meet the new eligibility criteria. Customers who previously applied and received an on-bill credit will be notified by their utilities that the funding limits have been increased, and that they can file a new application for additional credits under the new funding limits, to be applied against any current overdue amounts. No customer can receive total CEAP-SB funding that exceeds the new funding limit of $1,500.
Eligible small business and registered charity customers may qualify for a one-time CEAP-SB credit for the electricity or natural gas charges that are overdue on the date of their application for CEAP-SB, up to a maximum of $1,500.
More Information about CEAP-SB and How to Apply
The Ontario Energy Board updated the eligibility criteria on January 14, 2021, so that more customers may qualify for CEAP-SB. Small business and registered charity electricity or natural gas customers are now eligible for CEAP-SB if they meet all of the following criteria:
- The customer has an active account with an electricity distributor, a USMP or a natural gas distributor.
- The customer’s account falls within the following class:
- For customers of an electricity distributor, the General Service less than 50 kW rate class
- For customers of a USMP, the relevant commercial class that uses less than 150,000 kWh of electricity annually
- For customers of a natural gas distributor, is a non-residential customer that uses less than 50,000 cubic meters of gas annually
- Customers can find information about their class on their bill, or they can contact their utility or USMP.
- The customer has a registered business number or charitable registration number for the small business or registered charity operating out of the premises.
- The customer has overdue amounts owing from one or more electricity or gas bills since March 17, 2020.
Customers who previously applied but were denied will have their original applications reviewed by utilities and will be contacted directly if they meet the new eligibility criteria. Customers who previously applied and received an on-bill credit will be notified by their utilities that the funding limits have been increased, and that they can file a new application for additional credits under the new funding limits, to be applied against any current overdue amounts. No customer can receive total CEAP-SB funding that exceeds the new funding limit of $1,500.
Eligible small business and registered charity customers may qualify for a one-time CEAP-SB credit for the electricity or natural gas charges that are overdue on the date of their application for CEAP-SB, up to a maximum of $1,500.
More Information about CEAP-SB and How to Apply
Support Local Campaigns - #LoveLocalPtbo
#LoveLocalPtbo
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is continuing with its support local campaign - #LoveLocalPtbo. The message is even more relevant as businesses start the recovery process. Use the hashtag on your social media and let us know how you #LoveLocalPtbo.
Learn more
#CanadaUnited
The movement, led by RBC and in partnership with Chambers of Commerce and business organizations from across the county, starts with a Canada United Small Business Relief Campaign where we ask Canadians to complete ‘micro-actions’ (views, likes, shares, follows, etc.) in support small and local businesses.
Every micro-action will result in a micro-donation by RBC towards small business recovery grant funding, which will be managed by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the national chamber network. The movement culminates with a new nationwide Canada United Weekend in late August. The event promotes shopping at small and local businesses, while we help those same businesses prepare and promote their participation in the event. The weekend includes unveiling of the total raised for small business recovery grant funding from the Canada United Small Business Relief Campaign.
Learn more
#LoveLocalPtbo
The Peterborough Chamber of Commerce is continuing with its support local campaign - #LoveLocalPtbo. The message is even more relevant as businesses start the recovery process. Use the hashtag on your social media and let us know how you #LoveLocalPtbo.
Learn more
#CanadaUnited
The movement, led by RBC and in partnership with Chambers of Commerce and business organizations from across the county, starts with a Canada United Small Business Relief Campaign where we ask Canadians to complete ‘micro-actions’ (views, likes, shares, follows, etc.) in support small and local businesses.
Every micro-action will result in a micro-donation by RBC towards small business recovery grant funding, which will be managed by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce on behalf of the national chamber network. The movement culminates with a new nationwide Canada United Weekend in late August. The event promotes shopping at small and local businesses, while we help those same businesses prepare and promote their participation in the event. The weekend includes unveiling of the total raised for small business recovery grant funding from the Canada United Small Business Relief Campaign.
Learn more
