In order to monitor the changing requirements for health and safety due to COVID-19, the below list was put together so businesses may have everything in one place. Here you will find important links as well as financial and promotional supports available from all levels of government.
Important Links and Information
Stop the Spread Business Information Line - This toll-free line is intended to provide support to Ontario businesses who have questions about how to reopen their doors during the COVID-19 pandemic. It can be reached at 1-888-444-3659.
Ontario.ca COVID-19 Information - On this page, you will find all of the latest information on COVID-19 from a provincial level. As well, you can find an outline for restrictions according to the Ontario Government.
City of London COVID-19 Information - Here you’ll find all information regarding City of London service changes and interruptions due to COVID-19.
London Middlesex Health Unit - This page provides up-to-date information on the Ontario Colour Code Level for this region. Here you’ll find information on all restrictions as well as sector-specific guidelines and requirements for London businesses.
B2B London - To support London businesses in the next phase of the Province’s reopening, the City of London has established a Back to Business (B2B) action team and intake portal. B2B is a temporary initiative designed to provide rapid and flexible responses to business’ requests associated with reopening.
StaySafe London - The StaySafe™ London Rapid Antigen Screening Program provides free rapid antigen tests for small and medium-sized businesses. Order yours today, it's completely free of charge!
Financial Supports
NEW Ontario COVID-19 Small Business Relief and Ontario Business Costs Rebate - The government is announcing an Ontario COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant for small businesses that are subject to closure under the modified Step Two of Roadmap to Reopen. They are also introducing the new Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program to support businesses that are most impacted by provincial public health measures and a cash flow support program.
Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund - Through a partnership between Black-led businesses, financial institutions and the Federal Government, loans up to $250,000 to Black business owners are available.
Canada Recovery Benefits - Now that the Canada Emergency Response Benefit has closed, eligible individuals may qualify for Employment Insurance or one of the new Canada Recovery Benefits, find out more right here.
Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy - Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations, or charities who have seen a drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of their commercial rent or property expenses.
Please click here for a full list of financial supports currently available through the Federal Government.
Promotional Supports
#DIGOEV Digital Marketing Fund - This fund allows eligible Old East Village businesses to apply for micro-grants to help cover the costs of social media promotions.
Graffiti Removal Program - Through this fund, eligible Old East Village businesses can apply for funding to help offset the costs associated with graffiti removal or vandalism repair that occurred due to prolonged business closure or decreased hours. Please contact info@oldeastvillage.com for further information.
Digital Main Street’s shopHERE - Powered by Google, this program allows eligible small businesses, independent workers and artists to have an online store fully built and configured for them, at no cost. Find out more right here.
Additional Supports (Financial savings not directly tied to COVID-19 supports)
Small Business Lighting Program - Receive up to $2,000 in incentives towards eligible energy-efficient lighting upgrades for your business to improve hydro bills moving forward.
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This list has been updated to build upon information presented in our original post regarding business supports and to outline the most recent information available.
Please reach out to us at info@oldeastvillage.com or call the office at 519-645-7662 with any questions or concerns.
Last Updated January 6, 2022.