Recovery Support for Local Businesses

*NEW* - Queen Street Pilot Program
Click here for more information.

*NEW* - Temporary Outdoor Patio Expansions
Click here for more information.

There is no doubt that Niagara-on-the-Lake's tourism industry and business community has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we cautiously transition into our recovery phase, we look to the future with hope and are committed to ensuring that these impacts will not have a permanent, negative effect.

Business owners are valued contributors to the Town's local economy and essential to the community's vibrancy and growth. Now, more than ever, it's important for everyone to support local businesses. The Town is committed to working with the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce to ensure the safe reopening of businesses and will continue to offer support in response to Provincial regulations.

Although some local businesses may have temporarily closed their (physical) doors due to COVID-19, many are still providing products and services in a safe way that respects health and safety guidelines and physical distancing.

Some businesses have online shops and many are accepting orders and payment over the phone. Some are even offering delivery, takeout, or curbside pick up, so reach out and support your favourite local retailer, restaurant, and service providers. We need to be there for them now so they will be here for us later!

Visit openinniagara.ca for more information about open businesses in Niagara.

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS: See below for a list of important resources for financial relief:

• Canada Emergency Response Benefit - $2,000 per month pay if you are closed and not working
• Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance - The criteria has been amended to allow for easier access
• Eviction Ban - Government to introduce changes to the Commercial Tenancies Act to protect small businesses
• Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy - 75% of employee wages
• Canada Emergency Business Account - Interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits impacted by COVID-19
• FedDev Ontario supports tourism and recovery efforts across Southern Ontario. From: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario News release. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound economic impact on businesses and organizations across the country.