Double the relief could be on the way for eligible businesses in BC who have recently had to close due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The provincial government announced on Wednesday that not only are they extending the COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant, they’re those doubling supports for eligible businesses that have been ordered closed.
And the news comes in good time, as Dr. Bonnie Henry announced just yesterday that the COVID-19 restrictions surrounding events, bars and nightclubs would be extended until at least February 16th.
BC businesses that were ordered to remain closed due to the above orders will now be eligible for up to $20,000 in total funding—this will be based on staffing levels at the time of closure.
Eligible businesses include:
- bars, nightclubs and lounges that do not serve full meals; and
- event venues that had to close due to cancellations
Fitness facilities that were ordered closed on December 22nd are allowed to reopen as of January 20th, but will be eligible to receive the original four-week temporary-closure grant of up to $10,000.
Businesses that have applied for the COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant do not need to reapply, and applications are available online.
The $4 million extension of the original $10 million grant program is in addition to current government programs, including the Local Lockdown Program and the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit.
