TIAO is researching tourism business support programs and funding available through various regions, municipalities, and cities.
TIAO is committed to supporting the tourism sector in any way possible during this pandemic and in the future. We remain committed to assisting you and your business’ recovery and, we will be posting regular updates and any new available resources. Please check our website regularly for further information.
We are glad to extend complimentary membership to the entire tourism industry in Ontario for 2021.
To continue to access valuable information, and for other membership benefits, please visit our Membership page by clicking the link below
To learn about programs in your region, please click on your RTO in the list below.
►RTO 1: Southwest Ontario
►RTO 2: Niagara Canada
►RTO 3: Hamilton, Halton and Brant
►RTO 4: Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
►RTO 5: Greater Toronto Area
►RTO 6: York, Durham and Headwaters
►RTO 7: Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay and Lake Simcoe
►RTO 8: Kawarthas Northumberland
►RTO 9: South Eastern Ontario
►RTO 10: Ottawa and Countryside
►RTO 11: Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
►RTO 12: Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka and Parry Sound
►RTO 13a: Northeastern Ontario
►RTO 13b: Sault Ste. Marie - Algoma
►RTO 13c: Northwest Ontario
RTO 1: Southwest Ontario
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced the $1 billion Regional Relief and Recovery Fund to assist the tourism sector and seasonal businesses that did not qualify for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy or the Canada Emergency Business Account.
The funding will flow through the six regional development agencies in Canada, including FedDev Ontario with a portion of that funding going towards the Community Futures Network in order to assist businesses in remote and rural regions.
If you are located in southern Ontario and facing pressures with fixed operating costs, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you can apply by clicking the link below.
Regional Relief and Recovery Fund
Applications are accepted until June 30, 2021.
Celebrate Ontario Blockbuster
The Celebrate Ontario Blockbuster program supports costs related to hosting:
- major one-time events in Ontario
- events that do not recur annually or biennially in Ontario
- national or international events in Ontario
Events supported by the blockbuster program must have cash operating expenses totaling $1 million or more.
Click the link below to pply now.
Tourism Workforce Recovery Toolkit
Tourism HR has created a toolkit with the goal of helping tourism operators rebound from the crisis. The toolkit’s resources focus on the five areas of communications, workforce, budget & finance, marketing and strategy. Visit the website by clicking the link below.
Grant and Funding Opportunities for Tourism Stakeholders in Ontario’s Southwest
Check out this document that lists multiple federal and provincial funding opportunities to see which ones you are eligible for and how you can apply.
Funding Opportunities for Tourism Stakeholders
City of London
Back to Business (B2B)
To provide streamlined, efficient responses to evolving business needs during necessary pandemic restrictions, the City of London established a Back to Business (B2B) Action Team and intake portal. B2B comprises a cross-functional team serving as a “one-window” point of contact for businesses to be as responsive as possible. These initiatives include sidewalk sales, expanded patios, and park and pick-up locations. For more information on these initiatives, email b2b@london.ca or click the link below for more information on how to apply.
*The expanded patios are permitted until December 31, 2021
Windsor Essex Pelee Island
Small Business Action Plan
With the tourism and hospitality sector particularly hard hit by the COVID-19 global pandemic beginning in 2020 and lasting to present day, the City of Windsor created and launched the “Small Business Action Plan” (SBAP) in May 2020 to provide multiple new avenues for tourism and hospitality business to re-orient their operations and take advantage of public spaces, all while maintaining appropriate social distancing. Actions under the plan were originally established to provide support to local operators as they navigated pandemic lock-downs and prepared for future re-openings. For more information, please click the link below.
COVID19 Small Business Action Plan
Sidewalk Café: “Summer of Recovery”
The City of Windsor has waived all permit fees associated with opening a sidewalk café, patio or parklet. This is potentially a savings of hundreds of dollars for local businesses ($1000 indemnity fee, $212 permit fee, annual café fee of $3/sq.ft.). Last year, the City of Windsor issued 41 permits (waiving about $56,000 in fees) for outdoor dining spaces. So far this year, the City has already issued 49 outdoor dining permits and we are expecting more (about 70 by the end of the season). Any business interested in applying and taking advantage of the waived fees should click the link below.
Sidewalk Cafe Application Process
Small Business Centre
Windsor Essex’s Small Business Centre is a go to for information and support for small businesses in the Windsor-Essex region. Please click the link below for more information.
Economic Revitalization Community Improvement Plan
The City of Windsor's Economic Revitalization Community Improvement Plan (CIP), “provides financial incentives to encourage new investment in targeted economic sectors for the purposes of diversifying the local economy and creating/retaining jobs. The CIP allows the city to take a variety of measures, to further the objectives of the Economic Revitalization CIP, that would otherwise be prohibited by Ontario's Municipal Act. This includes the acquisition and preparation of land; construction, repair, rehabilitation or improvement of buildings; the sale, lease or disposal of land and buildings; and the provision of grants to owners or tenants of land, all of which must conform with the objectives and policies contained within the CIP.”
Financial Incentive Programs
The Economic Revitalization CIP contains four financial incentive programs to encourage new investment in targeted economic sectors. These programs address a wide range of business types including new businesses considering locating in Windsor, expansion of existing businesses within the city, and small businesses. These programs include: Business Development Grant Program, Business Retention & Expansion Grant Program, Small Business Investment Grant Program, and the Development Charge Grant Program.
For more information on these programs, please click the lnk below.
RTO 2: Niagara Canada
Niagara Falls
Patio Sidewalks
The City of Niagara Falls passed a bylaw which temporarily allows businesses that serve or sell food or drink to have accessory outdoor patios and sidewalk cafés. For more information and learn how to apply, please click the link below.
Outdoor Patios & Sidewalk Cafes
The City has also waived the licencing fee for the use of City property during the 2021 season. The season for the outdoor café ends November 1, 2021.
Municipal Employment Incentive Programs
The Municipal Employment Incentive Programs offer additional local level financial incentives for development proposals that have received approval for the Tax Increment Based Funding Program (TIBG) under the Niagara Gateway Economic Zone Community Improvement Plan (CIP). The TIBG is delivered through a partnership with the Niagara Region. The incentives under the MEIP are supplemental to the TIBG and are administered by the City of Niagara Falls. Included are:
- Planning Application Fee Waivers
- Building Permit Fee Rebates
- Study Grants
For more information regarding these programs, please click on the link below.
Municipal Employment Incentive Program
Niagara Gateway Economic Zone
Niagara offers programs that provide financial incentives to property owners who revitalize, strengthen and diversify the Niagara economy. The Gateway incentive programs are delivered through a partnership between the Niagara Region and the participating municipalities of Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, Port Colborne, Thorold and Welland.
The two programs that are available through the Community Improvement Plan are
- Tax Increment Based Grant Program: This program provides an incremental tax grant to completed projects within the Gateway Project Area based on the project’s economic and environmental design performance. Successful applicants will receive a tax rate rebate of a percentage of the post-project values, for a period of 5 or 10 years depending on the location of the project. Tax savings resulting from this program can be significant.
- Regional Development Charge Grant Program: This program recognizes exceptional projects - those that score 14 points or more according to the Gateway CIP evaluation criteria - and provides relief from regional development charges for those projects.
For more information on how to access these programs, click the link below.
RTO 3: Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Halton Region
Halton Region Community Investment Fund
The Halton Region Community Investment Fund (HRCIF) supports non-profit human service programs that enhance the health, safety and well-being of Halton residents. The HRCIF provides $3.5 million in annual funding.
The Fund provides one-year and multi-year grants to programs and initiatives through two categories of funding. Applications for HRCIF funding must focus on supporting residents who are vulnerable to negative health and social outcomes. The HRCIF encourages proposals that demonstrate collaborative approaches to address community needs. For more information on this fund please visit the link below.
Halton Region Community Investment Fund
To apply to the Halton Region Community Investment Fund please click on the link below.
Halton Small Business Centre
The Halton Small Business Centre is continuing to support Halton small businesses and working with our local community partners during COVID-19. One-on-one calls or virtual meetings can be set up to ensure you’re tapping into all available businesses supports.
Contact us for more information about our virtual services and programs. We’re here to help!
For more information, visit our Halton Business Blog, follow Halton Business on Twitter, follow Halton Business on Facebook or email smallbusiness@halton.ca. For more information about supports, programs and opportunities specific to your community, please visit your local municipality’s website.
Halton – Municipal Tax relief programs:
City of Burlington: 2021 COVID-19 Property Tax Deferral Payment Plan
Property owners that are experiencing financial hardship directly related to COVID-19 and unable to pay property taxes by the regularly scheduled tax due dates can apply for a deferred pre-authorized monthly payment plan if they meet eligibility criteria. Equal monthly withdrawals will allow for the property taxes to be paid in full by Dec 1, 2021. Property owners may choose which month they would like to start the pre-authorized monthly payments. The options for start dates are April 1, May 1, June 1 or July 1.
Property owners with an unpaid balance on their account from March 1, 2020 onward can include this balance in the pre-authorized monthly payment plan. Immediately following enrollment, penalty/interest is suspended for the duration of the deferral as long as payments are made.
The monthly withdrawal amount is calculated by taking an estimate of the total 2021 tax year levy plus any eligible 2020 tax year balance. This total amount will be divided over the number of monthly withdrawals based on the start date, to the last withdrawal on Dec. 1, 2021.
More information on how to apply and further supports on Property Taxes please click the link below.
Halton Hills: Tax deferral program
The Regional Municipality of Halton has a tax deferral program for low-income seniors and low income persons with disabilities. Read the Halton Region, Tax Deferral FAQs and Tax Deferral By-law for Low-Income Seniors and Low-Income Persons with Disabilities Tax Deferral Program. Read more information about the Seniors and Low-Income Tax Deferral program and application on Halton Region's website.
Town of Milton: Tax deferral program
COVID-19 property tax relief deferral program
Property owners that are adversely impacted by COVID-19 and unable to pay property taxes by the regularly scheduled tax due dates can apply for a deferred payment plan if they meet eligibility criteria.
Property owners can apply for a one-time COVID-19 pre-authorized monthly repayment plan. The plan consists of up to 10 monthly withdrawals beginning as early as March 15, 2021 through to a final withdrawal date no later than Dec. 15, 2021.
In addition to the deferral of 2021 tax installments, owners can also include the balance on an account from previous taxation year. Properties in which the Town has registered a lien on title are not eligible for this deferral program.
Immediately following enrollment, penalty/interest is suspended for the duration of the deferral so long as all payments are made. Ratepayers will customize which month they prefer to start their withdrawals; available starting months are March through June 2021.
For more information and how to apply, please click on the link below.
Monthly withdrawal amounts
The monthly withdrawal amount is calculated by taking an estimate of the full 2021 tax year levy, plus the balance outstanding from previous billings, plus any applicable penalty/interest charged. This combined figure is divided by the number of months chosen by the ratepayer, up to December 2021. There are several potential scenarios as illustrated in Report No. CORS-008-21.
Town of Oakville
Oakville’s Economic Task Force launched a community-wide campaign to support the reopening of businesses in Oakville. Explore resources and information including downloadable marketing templates, safety decals and more by visiting the link below.
For more information on Oakville’s recovery programs, visit the link below
Digital Business Supports
The Digital Service Squad is a resource for small businesses to help build or enhance an online presence, promote products/services and sell online. Please note that this service is only available for businesses located in one of Oakville’s three BIAs. Book a virtual meeting with a squad member by clicking one of the links below.
Oakville has partnered with Digital Main Street and Ritual ONE to assist main street businesses in growing their operations through technology.
For more information, email econdev@oakville.ca or visit the link below.
Commercial Recovery Initiative
On May 25, 2020, Town Council unanimously passed a motion to implement the Commercial Recovery Initiative which permits commercial services outdoors, including patios and pop-up facilities associated with existing restaurants and retail businesses; along with other measures to help local businesses. In November 2020, Council extended the Initiative to the end of 2021. Click the link below for more information on this initiative.
Commercial Recovery Initiative
Patio program
The Town's Commercial Recovery Initiative has been extended into 2021, which includes a program for the temporary installation of patios, bistros, and merchandising on public and private lands. This program continues to support the town-wide reopening of commercial businesses in a practical and safe manner. You can apply by clicking the link below.
Property tax deferral
Town Council approved a 2021 Property Tax Deferral program for eligible Oakville property owners. The application-based program will allow residential and business property owners who are experiencing financial difficulties due to COVID-19 to apply to defer their property tax payments to December 15, 2021.
To learn more please click on the link below.
2021 Property Tax Deferral Program
Hamilton
Hamilton Business Centre
The Hamilton Business Centre (HBC) provides the information and tools that entrepreneurs need to grow their businesses. The Centre is a one-stop source for business information, guidance and professional advice on starting and running a successful business.
The HBC provides free consultations to help entrepreneurs:
- Prepare business plans
- Identify rules and regulations that could impact your business
- Understand which government and private sector programs apply to your business
- Help during your crucial start-up and growth stages
For more information, please visit the link below.
County of Brant
County of Brant Community Grants
The County of Brant Finance Division coordinates the collection, presentation and distribution of Council approved County of Brant Community grants annually.
2021 Emergency Grant Application Form
Click the link below for the Emergency Grant Application form.
As stated in the County of Brant Grant Policy, the criteria for the Emergency Funding Grant category is as follows:
- Must be an incorporated non-profit group of registered charity
- One-time funding required for emergency assistance related to unplanned needs requiring funding
- Must complete a Grant Application Form identifying financial need
- Preference will be given to grant applications received within the grant application deadlines
2022 Community Grant Application Form
The 2022 community grants application form will be available here in early winter.
For additional information on Community Grants, please contact grantrequest@brant.ca
For more information, please visit the link below.
New Public Safety Community Improvement Plan
The County of Brant has created a new Community Improvement Plan Program to allow businesses to implement public safety measures. In direct surveying of County of Brant businesses, additional interior safety measures were identified as another avenue to protect the public and employees from COVID-19.
Eligible expenses include but are not limited to:
- Installation of barriers to protect employees and the public;
- Permanent signage, kiosks and other markings to promote physical distancing;
- Reorientation of store aisles and displays to allow for greater distancing;
- Other permanent modifications that meet the intent of the Province's COVID-19 Guidance or that of the Brant County Health Unit.
Please note, projects cannot be reimbursed for work already completed.
A onetime grant of up $2,000 to assist businesses that operate public enclosed spaces will be eligible. For the first $1,000.00 spent, the County will refund 100% of eligible costs excluding HST, and 50% of the remaining costs up to a maximum grant value of $2,000.00.
For information, contact invest@brant.ca or call 519.44BRANT, 1.855.44BRANT or visit the link below.
RTO 4: Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
City of Guelph
The City of Guelph invited businesses and organizations impacted by COVID-19, as well as individuals working to address community needs, to apply for funding as part of Guelph’s economic recovery plan.
- Application deadline is August 31, 2021 by 4 p.m.
- Funds will be awarded by September 30, 2021
Applicants must demonstrate:
What new programs or modification of existing programs they have created to benefit residents during the pandemic and the recovery afterwards.
How they have positively contributed to the quality of life of residents as a result of their work, with alignment to the Emergency Fund program goals.
How they have supported the community in financial and non-financial ways and their collaboration with other organizations.
Their need for financial assistance.
For more information, please click the link below
or contact Alex Goss, Manager of Community Investment Culture and Recreation at the City of Guelph (call 519-822-1260 x 2675 or email emergencyfund@guelph.ca )
Waterloo Region
If you’re facing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19, there are various supports available for individuals and businesses. Please visit the link below for more information:
City of Waterloo
City-wide COVID-relief
Grant opens June 1, 2021.
Grants of up to $2,500 to recover COVID-19 related expenses dating back to March 2020 provide support for businesses across the city that have been impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic financial support for the additional costs associated with building and space alterations in response to COVID-19 other improvements may be approved by the Executive Director of Economic Development.
Physical distancing improvement grant - 100% reimbursement
Upgrades required to install physical distancing measures to meet public health and safety needs., installation of protective screens/physical barriers floor markings to encourage safe distancing and delineate traffic flow signage/displays to encourage physical distancing compliance physical building modifications or space reconfigurations (addition/removal of walls) to optimize business workstation modifications to enable physical distancing
Business adaptation grant - 100% reimbursement
Physical or operational changes to your business in order to safely operate or ensure financial viability., physical modifications required to provide for curbside pick-up, or delivery services washroom/change room modifications physical changes to promote touch-free access such as automatic doors/touchless faucets purchase of additional equipment or furniture that promotes health and safety
Improved ventilation grant - 100% reimbursement
Retrofitting and enhancements to improve ventilation and air quality with COVID-19 recommendations., improved air purification system and air-exchange systems upgrades to heating/air conditioning ventilation implementation and upgrade in exhaust fans, window or door replacement to promote the air movement in accordance to COVID-19
Outdoor business improvement grant - 100% reimbursement
Constructing outdoor patio or permanent seating areas, to expand capacity or extend the season in response to COVID-19, infrastructure and/or permanent fixtures to enable the construction or expansion of an outdoor patio addition of covered outdoor space to provide shelter for components of operations that were previously conducted indoors improvements to provide for all season use of outdoor spaces to implement COVID-19 related requirements (including permanent seating)
Technology expansion grant - 100% reimbursement
Cost of tech infrastructure to add connection or install digital practices to move business online., physical infrastructure required to enhance internet connectivity
To apply, please click the link below:
Wellington
Wellington County Business Recovery Grants
These grants are now available through the local Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDC). These grants were developed as a response to feedback received from the Business Survey conducted at the end of 2020. Contact your local CFDC to apply for a grant.
Three grants are available from a pool of $150,000.
Grants Open on Thursday, May 6, 2021
Business Safety Supply and PPE Grant
Grant maximum of $1,000 to enhance safety measures
Eligible Expenses:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, gowns, plexiglass, etc.
- Hard surface disinfectants
- Hand sanitizers
- Methods to ensure physical distancing, such as floor stickers, signage etc.
Business Services Support Grant
Grant maximum of $1,000 for services that support COVID-19 recovery
Eligible Expenses:
- Website development
- Design services
- Access to design programmes subscription (ie. Canva, Adobe)
Physical Adaptation and Technology Grant
Grant maximum of $1,500 for projects related to physical adaptation and technology that will support the business in operating safely.
Eligible Expenses:
- Physical adaptation: patios, pickup windows, outdoor heaters, barrier, direction tools, other modifications needed to operate
- Physical technology tools: Touch-free or contactless solutions such as touchless payments, touchless technology for doors or sanitation,
- Online tools: e-commerce (new or upgraded), reservation systems, digital document software, mobile friendly websites, digital help desk
- Digital tools: software upgrades, digital plug-in and dashboards
Grant Application Details:
Businesses operating a physical location in Wellington County may apply for a one-time grant.
- Total maximum grant allowance per business is $2,000.
- Funding is for items and projects as of March 29, 2021 and onwards.
- Business has been in operation since January 1, 2021.
- Complete the Wellington County Business Recovery Grant Application.
- Provide a quote, estimate, or invoice for items or project.
- Provide a copy of your Master Business License or Incorporation documents.
- Applications accepted on a first come, first serve basis and until all funding is allocated.
- Grants will be paid with proof of invoice.
- Grants must be paid out within 60 days of approval.
How to Apply
Wellington County Business Recovery Grants will be administered by the local Community Futures Development Corporations: Waterloo Wellington Community Futures (WWCF) and the Saugeen Economic Development Corporation (SEDC). The WWCF and SEDC are community based non-profit economic development organizations.
Contact your CFDC directly to apply and for more information click on the link below:
Financing and Business Incentives
There are many opportunities to leverage government grants, loans and tax incentive programs to launch or grow your business in Wellington County. For more information on the various business supports please click the link below:
RTO 5: Greater Toronto Area
Mississauga
Apply to defer 2021 property tax payments
If you’re facing financial problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you can apply to defer your final 2021 property tax payment until December 15, 2021.
Financial problems may include:
- Prolonged suspension of pay
- Loss of employment
- Extreme business revenue loss
- Business closure
- Insolvency or bankruptcy
To apply for the deferral, your property can’t have tax arrears prior to March 2020. You must also pay taxes directly to the City of Mississauga and not through your mortgage company.
If you’re enrolled in the Preauthorized Tax Payment (PTP) Plan, your account will be removed and you’ll have to submit a new application to re-enroll for 2022.
Financial institutions can’t apply for the deferral.
You can make property tax payments at any time during the year. Penalties and interest will not apply to your final 2021 tax instalment as long as we receive your full payment by the December 15 deadline.
If you still owe any 2021 interim, 2020, or prior year’s property taxes, penalties and interest will be applied to this balance until you’ve paid in full.
How to apply
The window to apply for a property tax deferral of your final instalments is June 1 to August 31. You can complete the property tax deferral application form online.
Our processing time for a tax deferral application is 10 business days. To apply for a tax deferral click on this link: Apply for tax deferral
For more information, please click the link below:
Temporary outdoor businesses
A temporary use by-law to permit outdoor retail sales and display and outdoor recreational and entertainment establishments was passed by Council on December 9, 2020. This initiative allows certain businesses and charitable ventures to operate outdoors in a safe and responsible manner until December 31, 2021.
If you need more information or have a question about temporary outdoor businesses, email temporary.outdoorbusinesses@mississauga.ca.
City of Toronto
Brownfield Remediation Tax Assistance (BRTA)
Brownfield Remediation Tax Assistance (BRTA) is a component of the IMIT Business Incentive Program. The BRTA program encourages investment in sites where contamination has rendered the property vacant, under-utilized, unsafe, unproductive or abandoned.
Remediation of sites and their subsequent development may result in an increase in the assessed of value of a property The BRTA allows the City of Toronto to cancel all or a portion of the tax increase directly attributed to the increase in assessed value related to the remediation and development to help brownfield property owners offset the remediation costs incurred.
Eligibility
To qualify, the property must be remediated and then developed for non-retail employment uses. For a property developed for a combination of eligible and ineligible uses, the portion attributable to the ineligible uses will be determined based on the gross floor area of the ineligible use.
The following criteria must be met:
- A Phase II Environmental Site Assessment confirming that the property does not meet standards that would permit a Record of Site Condition to be filed with the Ministry of Environment;
- A brief description of the remediation proposed, including technologies to be used and the expected duration of remediation work;
- A statement and summary of all costs to be incurred in connection with the remediation;
- The applicant must meet any further conditions as may be included in the By-law passed pursuant to Section 333(2) of the City of Toronto Act, 2006, if any.
For more information, please click the link below:
Brampton
Patio Brampton Program
The Patio Brampton Program is a temporary patio extension program which makes it easier for Brampton bars and restaurants to expand their patios and allow for physical distancing to contain the spread of COVID-19.
The Program provides the City of Brampton with more outdoor dining areas and allows restaurants and bars to create spaces which allow for physical distancing for customers. Patio Brampton ensures quicker processing of applications and permits and allows for waiving of fees for sidewalk, parking lot and curb lane patios.
For more information and to apply, please click the link below:
RTO 6: York, Durham and Headwaters
City of Markham
Partnership Support Program
Destination Markham Corporation (DMC) purpose is to promote Markham as a remarkable destination for visitors, including tourists, sport and festival attendees, meeting and conference delegates, and business travelers.
The key tourism objectives are to research, develop, market and grow Markham’s tourism/visitor economy. This initiative will collaborate with the hotel industry, festival-event-conference-travel planners, attraction operators, cultural institutions, sports tourism promoters, entertainment and recreation providers, restaurants and related service businesses and the City of Markham.
DMC is launching its first partnership program to provide support to tourism organizations who are working through the pandemic to keep their business open and facilitating projects for the recovery and revitalization of the visitor economy in Markham.
The DMC Partnership program is offering the opportunity for a DMC contribution to the partnership up to 20% of the project cost to a maximum of $10,000. The level of support will be determined case-by-case, based on the strength and requirements of the project.
If you have any questions regarding the program, contact Monica Pain at mpain@markham.ca
Destination Markham Business Toolkit
Markham Businesses are encouraged to find out more about available resources by downloading the Destination Markham customized Business Tool Kit (download in link below) for an overview of business resources including financial support, and tourism business-specific support at a local, regional, provincial and federal level.
Please contact info@visitmarkham.ca if you have any questions or would like help navigating the document.
Note: Program not running right now- but might be renewed.
Small Business Recovery Support Program
Non-Residential Property Tax and Stormwater Fee Payment Deferral Program Application
For 2021, Markham Council has approved a new Property Tax and Stormwater Fee Payment Deferral Program to assist property owners who have been financially affected by COVID-19. This assistance is by application only and is meant to aid residential and business property owners who may require payment flexibility throughout the 2021 taxation year.
If you have questions regarding your property tax account or would like to establish a repayment plan, please contact the City at 905-477-5530 or alternatively you can send an email to etax@markham.ca. Please click the link for more information regarding this program.
Non Residential Property Tax Deferral
Small Business Help
Our team at the Markham Small Business Centre (MSBC) can help you make the right decisions as you start up your business venture, help develop your management capabilities as it grows or help you pivot as we adapt to the COVID-19 crisis. Please visit the link below for more information.
York Region
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund
The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund encourages innovation towards business continuity and business recovery efforts by supporting promising early-stage start-ups, accelerators, incubators, and community partners. With an annual commitment of $100,000 from York Region until 2023, the fund will support the development of the innovation network in York Region.
For more information, email yrfund@venturelab.ca or visit the link below.
For any additional business supports and information, please visit the following links:
Vaughan
The Vaughan Starter Company Plus program is designed for you and your business. Receive tailored training, mentorship and the opportunity to apply for a provincial grant of up to $5,000 to help your business grow.
The Vaughan Starter Company Plus program is designed to help your business start, grow or expand. Program participants receive tailored training, mentorship and have the opportunity to apply for a provincial grant of up to $5,000.
The program will provide entrepreneurs with training to help develop their business plan, marketing strategies, budget and financial forecasts. Eligible applicants will be supported under one of the following two streams:
- Existing brick and mortar businesses, with physical storefronts or office or industrial locations
- New start-up and home-based businesses who may be looking to start or expand their businesses
For those participants interested in applying for the grant, the deadline to complete training and submit their business plan and budget will be Monday, October 11, at 11:59 PM.
For more information, please visit Starter Company Plus | Vaughan Economic & Cultural Development (vaughanbusiness.ca)
To see if you’re eligible, please fill out the form provided at the link below:
RTO 7: Bruce Peninsula, Southern Georgian Bay and Lake Simcoe
RTO7 has four different implementation programs that BruceGreySimcoe tourism operators and stakeholders can apply to. Don't miss out, apply now - the programs are listed below:
Festival Implementation Program (FIP)
This program has been designed to assist well-established and regional/emerging festivals to achieve at least one of the following: increase visitor spending, help reduce overcrowding in areas experiencing capacity issues, increase length of stay and/or increase return visits to BruceGreySimcoe. Media buys are managed by RTO7's Agency of Record (The Aber Group Inc.).
For detailed information on the program, criteria and application form, visit this page on RTO7.ca.
Deadline to apply: January 31, 2022.
Operations Implementation Program (OIP)
Designed to assist stakeholders in BruceGreySimcoe with social media marketing, operational expenses can be leveraged into a 4-week advertising campaign. Eligible expenses include mortgage payments, rent, insurance, inventory purchases, etc. Media buys are managed by RTO7's Agency of Record (The Aber Group Inc.).
Find more information on this page on RTO7.ca, including guidelines and application form.
Deadline to apply: January 31, 2022.
Sustainable Tourism Implementation Program (SIP)
This program is designed to assist BruceGreySimcoe stakeholders to promote a new sustainable product, experience or initiative they’ve invested in by supporting a social media marketing campaign.
The aim of sustainable tourism is to increase the benefits and to reduce the negative impacts caused by tourism for destinations. Long-term sustainability can be achieved by seeking a suitable balance between:
- Protecting natural environments, wildlife and natural resources when developing and managing tourism activities (environmental),
- Providing authentic tourist experiences that celebrate and conserve heritage and culture (socio-cultural), and
- Creating socio-economic benefits and well-being for host communities through employment and income earning opportunities (economic).
If a partner can demonstrate a financial investment of $750 - $1,000 towards achieving at least one of the items listed above, they may be eligible to receive $1,500 - $2,000 from RTO7 towards a social media advertising campaign. RTO7 matches the partner’s investment at a ratio of 1:2.
The administration fee is waived for 2021/22. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until January 31, 2022 or until the program is fully subscribed.
Please click this link for guidelines: Sustainable Tourism Implementation Guidelines
Please click this link to apply: Sustainable Tourism Implementation Application
If you require more information or have any questions, contact Amanda apausner@rto7.ca 226-568-0242 or Kim at kclarke@rto7.ca or 519-379-2506.
The Tourism Implementatio Program (TIP)
The Tourism Implementation Program (TIP) is designed to assist BruceGreySimcoe stakeholders by supporting a social media marketing campaign to promote a new product or experience they have invested in. For example, purchasing a new canoe for guests or renovating an art studio to accommodate more artist’s work. Partners must demonstrate how their investment has helped to achieve one of the four following objectives:
- Improve quality and sustainability,
- Reduced seasonality,
- Increased visitor spending or length of stay, and
- Expanded to or developed a new target market.
If a partner can demonstrate a financial investment of $750 - $2,500 towards achieving at least one of the items listed above, they may be eligible to receive $1,500 - $5,000 from RTO7 towards a social media advertising campaign. RTO7 matches the festivals investment at a ratio of 1:2.
The administration fee is waived for 2021/22. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until January 31, 2022 or until the program is fully subscribed.
Please click this link for guidelines: Tourism Implementation Guidelines
Please click this link to apply: Tourism Implementation Application Form
If you require more information or have any questions, contact Amanda at apausner@rto7.ca or 226-568-0242 or Kim at kclarke@rto7.ca or 519-379-2506.
County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe - In-Market Special Project Fund
The In-Market Special Project Fund is available to organizations to create partnerships and enhance service offerings in Simcoe County for area entrepreneurs. All activities supported must be non-profit in nature. To qualify, at least one Small Business Enterprise Centre and one Community Futures Development Corporation must be partners on the project and deliver the service in Simcoe County. Applications are evaluated by the County's Economic Development Office with approvals from the County's Economic Development Sub-Committee and Committee of the Whole.
Interested in applying? Email: edo@simcoe.ca
To learn more please click this link: In-Market Support Special Project Fund, 2019-2022.pdf
City of Barrie
The Patios Everywhere Program
The City of Barrie is working to provide businesses with a variety of supports and resources to minimize the impact of the pandemic and ensure an economic recovery takes place as soon as possible! The City of Barrie has implemented ‘The Patios Everywhere Program’ as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and is intended to support local restaurants by providing flexibility to restaurant owners while at the same time ensuring safety standards and measures remain in place. The City has waived permit fees for businesses who are opening patios and keep the program in place until November 30, 2021.
Small Business Centre
The Small Business Centre offers services to businesses owners or entrepreneurs, including free consultations and workshops, to help guide and support businesses in Barrie. For more information or to book a consultation, please visit the link below.
Funding for Georgian College’s Department of Research, Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Barrie City Council approved $75,000 in new municipal funding for a one-year pilot partnership with Georgian College’s Department of Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, aimed at delivering direct programming to businesses and entrepreneurs to aid in COVID-19 recovery. The partnership will support companies in streamlining processes with advanced technology and help them increase revenues by identifying and developing new markets and opportunities. The programs will also focus on helping businesses execute projects affordably by sourcing skilled workers through co-op placements, leading to increased employment and a stronger talent pipeline from Georgian to local industry. The $75,000 funding is in addition to $25,000 that Georgian will be receiving from the existing Economic & Creative Development budget. During the one-year pilot, the City will assess the impact of funding, outcomes and benefits to business, with future recommendations for a second year of funding. The programs and resources will be rolled out to businesses in 2021.
For more information, please click the link below:
Applied Research and Innovation
RTO 8: Kawarthas Northumberland
Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund
The goal of the Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund is to provide financial assistance to non-profit, community-based organizations that provide programs, projects, services or activities that enhance the quality of life for residents in the areas of health, arts, culture, leisure, heritage, education and the environment.
There are two Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund Committees:
- Bobcaygeon Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund Committee
- Lindsay Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund Committee
Submission deadline for both the Lindsay and Bobcaygeon Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund Applications is 4:30pm on the last Friday of October annually.
To learn more please click on the link below:
If you require additional information please E-Mail the Executive Assistant to the Director of Community Services or call 705-324-9411 extension 1300
50/50 Community Project Capital Funding Program
The 50/50 Community Project Capital Funding Initiative helps community organizations complete capital projects. This program provides for the betterment of City facilities and parks.
The deadline to apply is October 31 for projects and events scheduled for the following calendar year. You must submit an application form and complete Schedule A and Schedule B.
To learn more please click on the link below:
Please call 705-324-9411 extension 1335 or E-Mail Community Development if you have questions.
Community Partnership and Development Fund
The Community Partnership and Development Fund provides funding opportunities for Beautification Projects, Culture Funding and Special events.
The deadline to apply is October 31 for projects and events scheduled for the following calendar year. You must submit an application form and complete Schedule A and Schedule B.
To learn more please click on the link below:
Please call 705-324-9411 extension 1335 or E-Mail Community Development if you have questions.
RTO 9: South Eastern Ontario
Kingston
Pandemic Support Funding for Businesses
Businesses, artists and arts, social service, and sports organizations may tap into funding opportunities aimed at supporting local businesses, not-for-profits, recreation organizations, and artists.
The allocation of the grant funds will take place over the next several months. All applicants must be located within Kingston as these funds, allocated through the City’s Working Fund Reserve, have been generated by Kingston taxpayers. All application processes will be competitive for these grants, and the submission of applications does not guarantee approval.
Learn more about available pandemic grant programs outlined below, and see if your organization is eligible, by clicking the link below.
Recreation Relief Fund
This City-administered program offers a total of $100,000 in one-time grants to help address needs of local minor sports, non-profit sports, and recreation organizations experiencing hardship due to the pandemic. Round 1 applications are now closed, but please contact Rita Coughlin at rcoughlin@cityofkingston.ca or 613-546-4291 ext. 1337 for the next round application’s information.
City of Kingston Arts Fund, Resiliency and Adapt Grant Programs
This program offers a total in $200,000 in one-time grants for local artists, collectives and ad hoc groups, and not-for-profit arts organizations who have experienced pandemic-related challenges or who are addressing a related community need. These funds are being added to the City of Kingston Arts Fund, which is facilitated by the Kingston Arts Council. Applications will open on April 6 and close on July 21, 2021
Information will be available at the links below.
Resiliency Grants
Resiliency grants support individual professional artists based in Kingston to continue to work and work safely in their artistic practice. The total funding available in this stream is $100,000. Individual professional artists of any discipline are eligible to apply. There will be three intake periods in 2021 for this grant program. Artists may only receive one Resiliency grant.
Applications are open now and will be reviewed by KAC staff against an eligibility checklist. Eligible applicants will be approved for funding ($1,000 or $2,000 grant) on a first-come, first-served basis in each intake period.
Applicants must be:
- Professional artists
- 18 years of age or older
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents (application for status accepted or pending)
- Residents of the City of Kingston
To learn more and to apply, click on the link below.
Adapt Grants
Adapt grants support projects that address pandemic-related challenges through new ways of working. These projects include creating, presenting, or adapting artistic work, building partnerships, and creating innovative solutions for community needs. The total funding available in this program is $100,000. Individuals, collectives, ad-hoc groups, and non-profit arts organizations are eligible to apply. Applications will be evaluated and grants will be awarded by a jury of artists and arts professionals. Grants will be a minimum of $4,000 and a maximum of $10,000.
Grant guidelines will be available in June on the Kingston Arts Council website via the link below.
Community Investment Fund
This existing fund, administered by United Way of KFL&A, has been augmented with $100,000 in City funding making a total of $320,000 available to eligible applicants in 2021. It provides one-time grants of up to $25,000 to social service programs, projects, or small capital expenditures to non-profit organizations in the community.
Information on applications will be available on April 26. For more information please click the link below.
RTO 10: Ottawa and Countryside
City of Ottawa
The City of Ottawa in consultation with Ottawa Public Health have prepared a ‘Business Reopening Toolkit’ to provide guidance to businesses on how to prepare for safe reopening, subject to direction from the Province of Ontario. Please click the link below for more informaton.
Ottawa has also waived some fees and permits for cafes and patios; please click the link below for more information.
Cafes, Patios and Vending Right Way
RTO 11: Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
TRIP – Capital Projects
Geared specifically to small to medium sized tourism businesses, this program intends to offset up to 80% of eligible capital expenses incurred to modify operations to a maximum of $20,000 in non-repayable funding. Applications to this funding stream will be accepted beginning Jan. 15, 2021 and on an ongoing basis until Dec. 31, 2021, or until funds are depleted. For more information on the program, please click on the link below:
To apply to the program, please click on the link below:
For any other information or questions, please click on the link below:
Tourism Recovery and Innovation Program
Reconnect Festival and Event Program
Provides funding for finding new, exciting, and engaging ways to deliver local events and festivals during the pandemic. Now accepting applications for events taking place between April 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022.
Please click on the link below for full details:
HASCAP Credit Availability Program
Businesses heavily impacted by COVID-19 can access guaranteed, low-interest loans of $25,000 to $1M to cover operational cash flow needs. Learn more about this program available until June 30, 2021.
Additional Resources
Digital Main Street is offering free ongoing webinars to help you build your skills in digital marketing, social media, and website best practices. View their schedule here.
Rapid antigen test kits will be made available to a variety of organizations, including Chambers of Commerce and local pharmacies, to support safe operations in tourism businesses. To find if you are eligible for free tests, visit this site.
TIAC has created a new resource hub for tourism operators and destination partners called “Elevating Canadian Experiences”, designed to help grow and adapt your business and build tourism capacity in your region. Explore their collection of resources and training opportunities.
The Ontario Tourism Education Corporation (OTEC) is offering two training sessions for workers who are working full-time, part-time or currently furloughed; one focused on leadership and one focused on resiliency. Click to view the leadership and resiliency session flyers for more information and to register.
View the recorded sessions from the North & Eastern Ontario Local Food Conference here.
RTO 12: Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka and Parry Sound
Lake of Bays
Muskoka Small Business Centre (MSBC) provides free business consultations and resources for small to mid-sized businesses in Muskoka.
MSBC can help if you are:
- Thinking about opening a business
- Formulating a business plan
- Undergoing change in an established business
Muskoka Futures
Muskoka Futures is helping sustain our local businesses and the community we live in. Our vision is to participate in creating an innovative economy and to stimulate job growth; enticing future generations to build their careers in Muskoka. This initiative provides financial supports and resources to businesses. For more information, please click on the link below.
RTO 13a: Northeastern Ontario
NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism
To access NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism please click the link below.
Destination Northern Ontario - Business Reopening Toolkit: Since the beginning of COVID-19, Northern Ontario has been supporting you and your business when you need it most. We have compiled the below resources to support your business through the next phase of COVID-19. As this is a phased approached, business owners need to be flexible and prepared to close if cases of COVID-19 spike in the future.
To access the Business Reopening Toolkit, please click on the link below:
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services - Resources for Businesses: WSPS offers business information on their COVID-19 page including pandemic preparedness checklists, job aides and much more information. For access please click the link below:
You can also check out their Youtube page for videos to help you get back to work safely by clicking the link below:
Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Pandemic Tip Sheets! Each document offers health and safety tips and good practices, for both employers and workers, specific to each industry or sector. Organizations and businesses can adopt this guidance to protect their workers and prevent the spread of infections. Please click the link below to visit their site:
Resources from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business: With the emergence of COVID-19, the primary concern at CFIB is keeping you, your employees and your business safe. This page will provide you with expert advice to guide you through this difficult time, as well as templates and policies that prevent viral transmission in the workplace. Topics such as business continuity, how to access financial support, EI and employee income, employee management, business security and health and safety information can be found on this page. CFIB will also continue putting pressure on governments to give your business greater relief—including direct income support. To access the page please click the link below:
go2HR Tourism and Hospitality Health and Safety Resources: On this page, you will find information and resources for various sectors of tourism, workplace posters, COVID-19 pandemic awareness training, and emergency planning and preparedness. To access the resources please click the link below:
Tourism HR Canada: They have gathered some guidance and a series of resources to help all tourism stakeholders stay healthy, communicate clearly, and remain resilient as Canada takes action to slow the spread of the virus and plans for recovery. Please click the link below for more information:
BDC - COVID-19 Business Planning Tools: These planning tools and tips can help you map out your next steps, identify new opportunities, mitigate risk and create resilience in your company, so you can emerge strong in recovery. To access the planning tools please click the link below:
The BDC also developed a summary table of all the supports that have been made available through both the Federal and Provincial Governments and the eligibility criteria. Please click the link below to view the summary table.
RTO 13b: Sault Ste. Marie - Algoma
NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism
To access NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism please click the link below.
Destination Northern Ontario - Business Reopening Toolkit: Since the beginning of COVID-19, Northern Ontario has been supporting you and your business when you need it most. We have compiled the below resources to support your business through the next phase of COVID-19. As this is a phased approached, business owners need to be flexible and prepared to close if cases of COVID-19 spike in the future.
To access the Business Reopening Toolkit, please click on the link below:
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services - Resources for Businesses: WSPS offers business information on their COVID-19 page including pandemic preparedness checklists, job aides and much more information. For access please click the link below:
You can also check out their Youtube page for videos to help you get back to work safely by clicking the link below:
Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Pandemic Tip Sheets! Each document offers health and safety tips and good practices, for both employers and workers, specific to each industry or sector. Organizations and businesses can adopt this guidance to protect their workers and prevent the spread of infections. Please click the link below to visit their site:
Resources from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business: With the emergence of COVID-19, the primary concern at CFIB is keeping you, your employees and your business safe. This page will provide you with expert advice to guide you through this difficult time, as well as templates and policies that prevent viral transmission in the workplace. Topics such as business continuity, how to access financial support, EI and employee income, employee management, business security and health and safety information can be found on this page. CFIB will also continue putting pressure on governments to give your business greater relief—including direct income support. To access the page please click the link below:
go2HR Tourism and Hospitality Health and Safety Resources: On this page, you will find information and resources for various sectors of tourism, workplace posters, COVID-19 pandemic awareness training, and emergency planning and preparedness. To access the resources please click the link below:
Tourism HR Canada: They have gathered some guidance and a series of resources to help all tourism stakeholders stay healthy, communicate clearly, and remain resilient as Canada takes action to slow the spread of the virus and plans for recovery. Please click the link below for more information:
BDC - COVID-19 Business Planning Tools: These planning tools and tips can help you map out your next steps, identify new opportunities, mitigate risk and create resilience in your company, so you can emerge strong in recovery. To access the planning tools please click the link below:
The BDC also developed a summary table of all the supports that have been made available through both the Federal and Provincial Governments and the eligibility criteria. Please click the link below to view the summary table.
RTO 13c: Northwest Ontario
NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism
To access NOTO's Health and Safety Protocols for Resource-Based Tourism please click the link below.
Destination Northern Ontario - Business Reopening Toolkit: Since the beginning of COVID-19, Northern Ontario has been supporting you and your business when you need it most. We have compiled the below resources to support your business through the next phase of COVID-19. As this is a phased approached, business owners need to be flexible and prepared to close if cases of COVID-19 spike in the future.
To access the Business Reopening Toolkit, please click on the link below:
Workplace Safety & Prevention Services - Resources for Businesses: WSPS offers business information on their COVID-19 page including pandemic preparedness checklists, job aides and much more information. For access please click the link below:
You can also check out their Youtube page for videos to help you get back to work safely by clicking the link below:
Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Pandemic Tip Sheets! Each document offers health and safety tips and good practices, for both employers and workers, specific to each industry or sector. Organizations and businesses can adopt this guidance to protect their workers and prevent the spread of infections. Please click the link below to visit their site:
Resources from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business: With the emergence of COVID-19, the primary concern at CFIB is keeping you, your employees and your business safe. This page will provide you with expert advice to guide you through this difficult time, as well as templates and policies that prevent viral transmission in the workplace. Topics such as business continuity, how to access financial support, EI and employee income, employee management, business security and health and safety information can be found on this page. CFIB will also continue putting pressure on governments to give your business greater relief—including direct income support. To access the page please click the link below:
go2HR Tourism and Hospitality Health and Safety Resources: On this page, you will find information and resources for various sectors of tourism, workplace posters, COVID-19 pandemic awareness training, and emergency planning and preparedness. To access the resources please click the link below:
Tourism HR Canada: They have gathered some guidance and a series of resources to help all tourism stakeholders stay healthy, communicate clearly, and remain resilient as Canada takes action to slow the spread of the virus and plans for recovery. Please click the link below for more information:
BDC - COVID-19 Business Planning Tools: These planning tools and tips can help you map out your next steps, identify new opportunities, mitigate risk and create resilience in your company, so you can emerge strong in recovery. To access the planning tools please click the link below:
The BDC also developed a summary table of all the supports that have been made available through both the Federal and Provincial Governments and the eligibility criteria. Please click the link below to view the summary table.