COVID-19 Coronavirus Chamber Update

April 21^st, 2020
Community

04/21/20

We hope that you are keeping warm on this cold Spring day. Today, the Prime Minister announced updates to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), including that the CEWS application portal will open on Monday April 27, 2020. For more on this announcement as well as other updates, please see below.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

As of today, there are 528 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo Public Health provides a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website daily at 10:30am.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister announced an update to the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS):
- A calculator has be launched to help businesses determine the amount they may receive with the CEWS. Through this website, businesses can learn more about the eligible employers and eligible employees for the wage subsidy.
- Beginning on Monday April 27^th applications will be open for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy. More information on the application process can be found on the CEWS website.
- In his update today, the President of the Treasury Board, Jean-Yves Duclos, indicated that the government expects that most of the CEWS applications will be processed by May 5^th and funds will flow soon after.
The Prime Minister announced $350 million in funding to support vulnerable Canadians through charities and non-profit organizations that deliver essential services to those in need. The investment will flow through national organizations that have the ability to get funds quickly to local organizations that serve vulnerable populations. The funding will support a variety of activities, such as: Increasing volunteer-based home deliveries of groceries and medications; Providing transportation services, like accompanying or driving seniors or persons with disabilities to appointments; Scaling up help lines that provide information and support; Helping vulnerable Canadians access government benefits; Providing training, supplies, and other required supports to volunteers so they can continue to make their invaluable contributions to the COVID-19 response; and, Replacing in-person, one-on-one contact and social gatherings with virtual contact through phone calls, texts, teleconferences, or the Internet
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.
A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already registered. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.

Provincial Government Update

During his press conference today, the Premier announced increased funding to help seniors and people with disabilities during the COVID-19 outbreak. The province is investing $11 million to help deliver meals, medicines and other essentials to those in need and doubling the Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS) payments.

Webinars & Events

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) Webinars

The GKWCC is hosting FREE webinars to help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can view past webinars on our website. Our upcoming webinars are listed below and we will be posting information about new webinars as they are confirmed.

- Wednesday April 22, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – How to Keep Your Culture and Engagement Alive During an Unengaging Circumstance presented by Axonify. Register Today!
- Wednesday April 29, 2020 at 3:00pm EDT – Keeping your Small Business Cybersafe presented by eSentire and FoxNet. Register Today!
- Tuesday May 5, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – Make the Most of Your Virtual Meetings presented by Overlap Associates. Register Today!
- Wednesday May 6, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – Video To the Rescue: How To Use Video to Your Advantage In the Current Climate presented by Vidyard. Register Today!

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) Virtual Events

The GKWCC is proud to still offer networking opportunities and educational programs for our members. We will be announcing several new virtual events in the coming weeks – please stay tuned for more information. Our first event is:

Leadercast 2020 – Join us on Thursday May 7, 2020 for this year’s Leadercast event, with the theme Positive Disruption. Please visit our website for ticket and event details. We are able to offer this virtual event with the continued support of our sponsors: Grand Valley Construction Association (Silver Sponsor), the City of Kitchener and City of Waterloo (Bronze Sponsors), and CKX Training On-The-Go (Small Business Partner).

Other Webinars

A video series called COVID-19 and the Effects on Business is available on the Canadian Business Resilience Network site
KPMG – Building a Virtual Workforce – Wednesday April 22^nd at 2:00pm EDT
Waterloo Region’s Future of Work & Learning Coalition – The Future (of Work) is Now – Monday April 27^th at 2:00pm EDT

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

If you are a Chamber member and your business has any special offers, updates, or resources you would like shared with our membership during this time, we want to know! Fill out this short form with your update. We are compiling submissions onto our website and sharing on our social media channels. Visit our Chamber Member Local Promotions & Updates page for more information.

Amidst these difficult times, we wanted to take this opportunity to highlight some amazing Charities and Not-For-Profit member organizations that could use the support of our community. We are sharing their updates/needs in one centralized location on our website. If you are a Charitable Organization or Not-For-Profit that is a Chamber Member and you wish to be featured on this page, please fill out this form.

ShopKW

Are you looking for assistance to get your business online? The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce’s ShopKW platform can help you manage your business’ online activities. We are offering a 90-day free trial of this platform as a way to help support our members during this time. If you are interested in learning more, please contact us here.

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Can Your Business Help?

Local

There is an immediate need for plastic bottles – spray bottles or otherwise – that can be used to dilute and distribute a large donation of disinfectant that was received at the community PPE drive. If you know of a company who is able to supply plastic bottles, please contact Elliot Fung, VP of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Ontario Health West Region at elliot.fung@lhins.on.ca.
Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up.
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Provincial & Federal

Both the Provincial and Federal governments are requesting the assistance of businesses and organizations who are able to help support the response to COVID-19:
- Ontario Together: Help Fight Coronavirus
- Help Canada combat Coronavirus (COVID-19)

04/20/20

We join our fellow grieving Canadians following the senseless act of violence in Nova Scotia over the weekend. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the RCMP, the victims, their families and loved ones, and the whole province of Nova Scotia as we mourn these tragic deaths.

Our update for today includes the following:

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

As of today, there are 503 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo Public Health provides a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website daily at 10:30am.

Provincial Government Update

The Ontario government today released updated COVID-19 modelling, which shows that the enhanced public health measures, including staying home and physically distancing from each other, are working to contain the spread of the virus and flatten the curve. However, the Chief Medical Officer of Health says emergency measures must remain in place to continue reducing the number of cases and deaths.
It was announced on Friday that the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada are investing $1 million in new funding to connect workers with in-demand jobs in the agri-food sector to keep the nation’s supply chains strong and store shelves stocked during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), the federal and provincial governments will provide support that will help people connect with job opportunities in the sector quickly. This program would help primary agriculture, food processing companies and grocery retail to recruit and train workers who are important to keeping the essential food supply chain functioning.

Federal Government Update

On Saturday, the Prime Minister announced up to $306.8 million in funding to support small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses and to support Aboriginal Financial Institutions that offer financing to these businesses. The funding will allow for short-term, interest-free loans and non-repayable contributions through Aboriginal Financial Institutions, which offer financing and business support services to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis businesses. These measures will help 6,000 Indigenous-owned businesses get through these difficult times.
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.

A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already registered. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.

Webinars & Events

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) Webinars

- Tuesday April 21, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – GKWCC Advocacy Update and Town Hall presented by the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Register Today!
- Wednesday April 22, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – How to Keep Your Culture and Engagement Alive During an Unengaging Circumstance presented by Axonify. Register Today!
- Tuesday May 5, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – Make the Most of Your Virtual Meetings presented by Overlap Associates. Register Today!

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) Virtual Events

Leadercast 2020 – Join us on Thursday May 7, 2020 for this year’s Leadercast event, with the theme Positive Disruption. Please visit our website for ticket and event details. We are able to offer this virtual event with the continued support of our sponsors: Grand Valley Construction Association (Silver Sponsor), the City of Kitchener and City of Waterloo (Bronze Sponsors), and CKX Training On-The-Go (Small Business Partner).

Other Webinars

A video series called COVID-19 and the Effects on Business is available on the Canadian Business Resilience Network site
Intrigue Media – Marketing in a Time of Uncertainty – Tuesday April 21^st at 8:30am EDT
KPMG – Building a Virtual Workforce – Wednesday April 22^nd at 2:00pm EDT
Waterloo Region’s Future of Work & Learning Coalition – The Future (of Work) is Now – Monday April 27^th at 2:00pm EDT

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Community Support

There is an immediate need for plastic bottles – spray bottles or otherwise – that can be used to dilute and distribute a large donation of disinfectant that was received at the community PPE drive. If you know of a company who is able to supply plastic bottles, please contact Elliot Fung, VP of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Ontario Health West Region at elliot.fung@lhins.on.ca.
Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up.
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

04/17/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber Update for today outlines government updates, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting a free webinar series to help businesses during this difficult time – please see below for details on upcoming webinars as well as how to watch past webinars.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

As of today, there are 399 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo Public Health provides a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website daily at 10:30am.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister announced that the government will provide an additional $250 million in funding available through the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP), which helps small and medium-sized businesses in Canada develop and commercialize technologies. This funding will support those businesses who are not eligible for the existing government support programs related to COVID-19. Applications are expected to open on April 22, 2020. Register here to receive more information about the program and application process.

A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already registered. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.

Provincial Government Update

Announcements from the Premier today focused on providing more supports and tools for home learning with a partnership announced with Rogers Communications and Apple.
The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) has issued a statement to consumers to beware of scams during the COVID-19 emergency. In March 2020, the OEB extended the winter ban on electricity disconnections for non-payment for residential and low-volume small business customers until July 31, 2020. If you receive a message, text or phone call from someone posing as a utility representative and threatening to disconnect your power, do not respond to it. Contact your utility directly using the telephone number displayed on your bill. Please visit the OEB website for more information.

Webinars

Greater KW Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC)

The GKWCC is hosting FREE webinars to help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can view past webinars on our website. Our upcoming webinars are listed below:

- Tuesday April 21, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – GKWCC Advocacy Update and Town Hall presented by the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Register Today!
- Wednesday April 22, 2020 at 2:00pm EDT – How to Keep Your Culture and Engagement Alive During an Unengaging Circumstance presented by Axonify. Register Today!

Other Webinars

A video series called COVID-19 and the Effects on Business is available on the Canadian Business Resilience Network site
Council of Canadian Innovators with an update from Hon. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry – COVID-19 Update Call for Canadian Business Leaders – TODAY (Friday April 17^th) at 5:30pm EDT
KPMG – Not-for-Profit Sector Webinar – Monday April 20^th at 1:00pm EDT
Intrigue Media – Marketing in a Time of Uncertainty – Tuesday April 21^st at 8:30am EDT
KPMG – Building a Virtual Workforce – Wednesday April 22^nd at 2:00pm EDT

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.
Tune in to Business to Business on 570 News on Saturday at 1:00pm to hear hosts Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce and Greg Durocher, President & CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce talk with guests about COVID-19 related initiatives and updates for businesses. They will be joined by:
- Tony LaMantia, President & CEO of the Waterloo EDC to discuss the work that the Business and Economic Support Team of Waterloo Region (BESTWR) is doing
- Joel-Denis Bellavance, Parliamentary Bureau Chief for La Presse to discuss changes to the CERB and loan services for small and medium-sized businesses
- Kristen Danson, Managing Partner with Mito Graphics and Swift Components to discuss the story of manufacturing intubation boxes to help combat COVID-19
- Mike Kuntz, Executive Vice President of Kuntz Electroplating Inc (KEI) to discuss the complexity of shutting down a manufacturer like KEI for COVID-19
- Carolyn Nephew, National Vice President of Sales, Trade Credit & Risk with Cowan Insurance Group to discuss domestic loss

Community Support

There is an immediate need for plastic bottles – spray bottles or otherwise – that can be used to dilute and distribute a large donation of disinfectant that was received at the community PPE drive. If you know of a company who is able to supply plastic bottles, please contact Elliot Fung, VP of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at Ontario Health West Region at elliot.fung@lhins.on.ca.
Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up.
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

04/16/2020

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

As of today, there are 383 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo Public Health provides a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website daily at 10:30am.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister made two announcements:
- The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is being expanded to include businesses that paid between $20,000 and $1.5 million in total payroll in 2019. This new payroll range will replace the previous range of between $50,000 and $1 million in payroll. Businesses can apply for a CEBA loan through their financial institutions.
- The government’s intention to introduce the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses. This program will seek to provide loans, including forgivable loans, to commercial property owners who in turn will lower or forgo the rent of small businesses for the months of April (retroactive), May, and June. Implementation of this program will require a partnership between the federal government and provincial and territorial governments, which are responsible for property owner-tenant relationships. We will share more details about this program as soon as they are available.
A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs (including the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy), that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.

Provincial Government Update

The government of Ontario has amended a regulation under the Insurance Act to enable auto insurance companies to provide temporary insurance premium rebates to drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. By amending this regulation insurance companies would be able to provide auto insurance premium rebates to consumers for up to 12 months after the declared emergency has ended.

Webinars

GKWCC

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce has hosted a number of FREE webinars to help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can view past webinars on our website. Our upcoming webinars are listed below:

- Wednesday April 22, 2020 at 2:00pm EST – How to Keep Your Culture and Engagement Alive During an Unengaging Circumstance presented by Axonify. Register Today!

Other Webinars/Workshops

Ontario Chamber of Commerce – Mitigating your Cybersecurity Risk During COVID-19 – Friday April 17^th at 12:00pm EDT
BDO – Unlocking the COVID-19 Financing Problems – Friday April 17^th at 1:30pm EDT
Intrigue Media – Marketing in a Time of Uncertainty – Tuesday April 21^st at 8:30am EDT
A video series called COVID-19 and the Effects on Business is available on the Canadian Business Resilience Network site

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Amidst these difficult times, we wanted to take this opportunity to highlight some amazing Charities and Not For Profit member organizations that could use the support of our community. We are sharing their updates/needs in one centralized location on our website. If you are a Charitable Organization or Not-For-Profit that is a Chamber Member and you wish to be featured on this page, please fill out this form.

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up.
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

04/15/2020

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

As of today, there are 379 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. The Region of Waterloo Public Health provides a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website daily at 10:30am.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister announced changes to the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) to help more Canadians during this difficult time. The government will be changing the eligibility rules for CERB to:

Allow people to earn up to $1,000 per month while collecting the CERB.
Extend the CERB to seasonal workers who have exhausted their EI regular benefits and are unable to undertake their usual seasonal work as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Extend the CERB to workers who recently exhausted their EI regular benefits and are unable to find a job or return to work because of COVID-19.
You can find more information about the CERB, as well as the online application on the Government of Canada website

The Government of Canada has launched the Canada COVID-19 Support App that provides the latest updates, trusted resources, and a self-assessment tool for symptoms.
The Government of Canada launched a new portal dedicated to mental wellness, called Wellness Together Canada. This portal will connect Canadians to peer support workers, social workers, psychologists, and other professionals for confidential chat sessions or phone calls. In addition, this portal will make it easier to find credible information and help address mental health and substance use issues. Wellness Together Canada can also be found using the Canada COVID-19 Support App.

A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.

Provincial Government Update

In his press conference today, the Premier of Ontario announced the COVID-19 Action Plan: Long-Term Care Homes to ramp up protection for long-term care residents.
As a reminder, yesterday the Ontario government extended the Declaration of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act for a further 28 days. This will allow the government to continue to use every tool at its disposal to protect the health and safety of the people of Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic. The extension of the provincial declaration of emergency is now in effect until May 12, 2020 and allows Ontario to continue to enforce current emergency orders, which includes the closure of all non-essential workplaces, outdoor amenities such as parks and recreational areas, public places and bars and restaurants, as well as restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people.

Webinars

GKWCC

Thursday April 16, 2020 at 9:30am EST – Enhance Your Organization’s Online Presence presented by the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Register Today!

- Wednesday April 22, 2020 at 2:00pm EST – How to Keep Your Culture and Engagement Alive During an Unengaging Circumstance presented by Axonify. Register Today!

Other Webinars

Economic Development Canada (EDC) – COVID-19: Get financing and support for your business – Thursday April 16^th at 2:00pm EST
BDO – Unlocking the COVID-19 Financing Problems – Friday April 17^th at 1:30pm EST

We Want to Hear from You!

To support the business community in these challenging times, the Toronto Region Board of Trade has launched a bi-weekly check-in with businesses across the Innovation Corridor, including in Waterloo Region, to stay current on specific pain points and relief measures needed now and during the post-COVID-19 recovery period. Participating in this bi-weekly Business Insights Questionnaire (BIQ) will help us better understand specific impacts on businesses related to the current crisis, supports needed, and the effectiveness of measures implemented by all orders of government. Please take the time to complete this questionnaire, which will be open until April 15^th 5:00 p.m. EST.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up.
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

04/14/2020

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health updates their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. As of today, there are 353 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find the Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

On Saturday April 11^th, Bill C-14, the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act, No. 2 received Royal Assent, bringing this measure into law. This bill includes the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), with the additional flexibilities to CEWS that were announced last week.

To recap other federal government programs:

The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is an interest-free loan, guaranteed and funded by the Government of Canada, of up to $40,000 for eligible small businesses. CEBA is being administered through the financial institutions and applications are now open. Please contact your bank for details and information on how to apply. The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is working hard to advocate on behalf of small businesses to revise eligibility criteria to include dividend income as well as employment income to meet the minimum income threshold of $50,000, so that more small businesses can access this much needed financial support.

Applications for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) opened on April 6th. The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks.

Temporary changes were announced yesterday to the Canada Summer Jobs program that will help employers hire summer staff and provide young Canadians access to the jobs they need.
A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Visit the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan for more information on support available to help Canadians and businesses.

Provincial Government Update

The Ontario government is extending the Declaration of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act for a further 28 days. This will allow the government to continue to use every tool at its disposal to protect the health and safety of the people of Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic. The extension of the provincial declaration of emergency is now in effect until May 12, 2020 and allows Ontario to continue to enforce current emergency orders, which includes the closure of all non-essential workplaces, outdoor amenities such as parks and recreational areas, public places and bars and restaurants, as well as restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people.

Webinars

GKWCC

Tomorrow (Wednesday April 15^th) at 10:00am EST – Employment Law Risks in the COVID 19 Era presented by Gowling WLG. Register Today!
Thursday April 16^th at 9:30am EST – Enhance Your Organization’s Online Presence presented by the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Register Today!

Other Webinars

Economic Development Canada (EDC) – COVID-19”: Get financing and support for your business – Thursday April 16^th at 2:00pm EST
BDO – Unlocking the COVID-19 Financing Problems – Friday April 17^th at 1:30pm EST

We Want to Hear from You!

To support the business community in these challenging times, the Toronto Region Board of Trade has launched a bi-weekly check-in with businesses across the Innovation Corridor, including in Waterloo Region, to stay current on specific pain points and relief measures needed now and during the post-COVID-19 recovery period. Participating in this bi-weekly Business Insights Questionnaire (BIQ) will help us better understand specific impacts on businesses related to the current crisis, supports needed, and the effectiveness of measures implemented by all orders of government. Please take the time to complete this questionnaire, which will be open until April 15^th 5:00 p.m. EST.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up (see attached information).
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

04/09/2020

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health updates their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 237 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find the Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

The Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) is an interest-free loan, guaranteed and funded by the Government of Canada, of up to $40,000 for eligible small businesses. CEBA is being administered through the financial institutions and applications at several banks are now open. Please contact your bank for details and information on how to apply. The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is working hard to advocate on behalf of small businesses to revise eligibility criteria to include dividend income as well as employment income to meet the minimum income threshold of $50,000, so that more small businesses can access this much needed financial support.
Yesterday, further details on eligibility requirements for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) were announced, which included flexibility for employers to access the subsidy.

Applications for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) opened on April 6th. The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks.
Temporary changes were announced yesterday to the Canada Summer Jobs program that will help employers hire summer staff and provide young Canadians access to the jobs they need.
A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Statistics Canada reported today that the unemployment rate in Canada increased to 7.8%, which is a 2.2% increase in the national unemployment rate in a single month.

Provincial Government Update

The Premier announced a new Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee, which will focus on getting businesses up and running and people back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic is over. The Committee will be consulting with a wide variety of people to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the provincial economy and develop an action plan to move forward, including business associations, chambers of commerce, municipal leaders, corporate leaders, small business owners, and entrepreneurs.

Webinars

Tuesday April 14^th at 2:00pm EST – COVID 19, CERB and CEWS and the rest – Leveraging Government Programs and Legal Risks presented by Gowling WLG. Register Today!
Wednesday April 15^th at 10:00am EST – Employment Law Risks in the COVID 19 Era presented by Gowling WLG. Register Today!
Thursday April 16^th at 9:30am EST – Enhance Your Organization’s Online Presence presented by the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Register Today!

We Want to Hear from You!

To support the business community in these challenging times, the Toronto Region Board of Trade has launched a bi-weekly check-in with businesses across the Innovation Corridor, including in Waterloo Region, to stay current on specific pain points and relief measures needed now and during the post-COVID-19 recovery period. Participating in this bi-weekly Business Insights Questionnaire (BIQ) will help us better understand specific impacts on businesses related to the current crisis, supports needed, and the effectiveness of measures implemented by all orders of government. Please take the time to complete this questionnaire, which will be open until April 13^th 5:00 p.m. EST.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up (see attached information).
Communitech is working to coordinate community efforts by working directly with MedTech companies, our regional hospitals, public health agencies, municipal and regional governments, as well as other similar agencies in the fight against COVID-19. They are focused on identifying the needs of the local health care sector so they can do their part and rally the tech and business community to meet those most immediate needs.
- Communitech has a COVID-19 page with many resources for companies and individuals, including government supports available and an intake form for any companies or volunteers that might be able to help.
- Waterloo Region PPE Drive: Communitech is accepting PPE donations ongoing at Westmount Golf Club, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

We are working hard to support business and will continue to send you updates by email, through social media and on our blog. Please visit our COVID-19 Resources for Your Business site for information and resources that may help you, your staff, and your business.

Please note that the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce will be closed on Friday April 10 and Monday April 13. Our Chamber Update emails will resume on Tuesday April 14. We wish everyone a safe and happy long weekend.

04/08/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber Update for today outlines government updates, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting a free webinar series to help businesses – please see below for details and stay tuned for more webinars to come.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health updates their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 220 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find the Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister announced further details on the eligibility requirements for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), which included flexibility for employers to access the subsidy. In order to address the realities faced by the not-for-profit sector, high growth companies and new businesses, the Government proposes the following additional flexibility:
To measure their revenue loss, it is proposed that all employers have the flexibility to compare their revenue of March, April and May 2020 to that of the same month of 2019, or to an average of their revenue earned in January and February 2020.
For March, the Government proposes to make the CEWS more accessible than originally announced by reducing the 30-per-cent benchmark to 15 per cent, in recognition of the fact that many businesses did not begin to be affected by the crisis until partway through the month.
In recognition that the time between when revenue is earned and when it is paid could be highly variable in certain sectors of the economy, it is proposed that employers be allowed to measure revenues either on the basis of accrual accounting (as they are earned) or cash accounting (as they are received). Special rules would also be provided to address issues for corporate groups, non-arm’s length entities and joint ventures.
Registered charities and non-profit organizations would also be able to benefit from the additional flexibilities being provided to employers with respect to the revenue loss calculation. In addition, to recognize that different types of organizations are experiencing different types of funding pressures, it is proposed that charities and non-profit organizations be allowed to choose to include or exclude government funding in their revenues for the purpose of applying the revenue reduction test.

The proposed CEWS would apply at a rate of 75 per cent of the first $58,700 normally earned by employees – representing a benefit of up to $847 per week, per employee. The program would be in place for a 12-week period, from March 15 to June 6, 2020. Employers of all sizes and across all sectors of the economy would be eligible, with certain exceptions including public sector entities. An eligible employer’s entitlement to this wage subsidy will be based entirely on the salary or wages actually paid to employees. All employers would be expected to make best efforts to bring employees’ wages to their pre-crisis levels.

As well, the Government is proposing that employers eligible for the CEWS be entitled to receive a 100-per-cent refund for certain employer-paid contributions to Employment Insurance, the Canada Pension Plan, the Quebec Pension Plan, and the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan. This refund would apply to the entire amount of employer-paid contributions in respect of remuneration paid to furloughed employees in a period where the employer is eligible for the CEWS.

The Prime Minister said that the government is working hard to have CEWS funds available to distribute to business as quickly as possible, indicating 3 weeks as a possible timeline. We will provide updates as they become available.

To support businesses and young Canadians, the Government of Canada announced temporary changes to the Canada Summer Jobs program that will help employers hire summer staff and provide young Canadians access to the jobs they need. The temporary changes to the program for this year include:

- an increase to the wage subsidy, so that private and public sector employers can also receive up to 100 per cent of the provincial or territorial minimum hourly wage for each employee
- an extension to the end date for employment to February 28, 2021
- allowing employers to adapt their projects and job activities to support essential services
- allowing employers to hire staff on a part-time basis

For workers who have had their work hours reduced to 10 hours or less per week due to COVID-19, the Prime Minister indicated that information will be released soon as to how they can apply to the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB). We will provide an update once those details have been released.
Applications for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) opened on April 6th. The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks.

The government is staggering applications by month of birth and has outlined the following schedule for applications:
Those born in January, February, and March are able to apply today (April 6)
Those born in April, May, and June are able to apply tomorrow (April 7)
Those born in July, August, and September are able to apply on Wed (April 8)
Those born in October, November, and December are able to apply on Thurs (April 9)
Friday, Saturday, and Sundays are available for those born in any month
You can find out more information on how to apply here. Applications will accepted online through your CRA My Account or by phone through an automated service.

A reminder to those businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, that it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.

Provincial Government Update

The Provincial government announced today that Ontario is extending construction hours for essential construction projects, like critical projects in the health care sector, to 24 hours a day. Work on new hospital builds, expansions, and COVID-19 assessment centres will be able to continue any time of the night or day in order to help accelerate the construction of these important projects and enable employers to take additional steps to protect the health and safety of workers on these job sites. Ontario will temporarily limit local noise bylaws from applying to these types of essential construction activities beginning April 7, 2020. Extending hours for essential construction will also give worksite managers more flexibility to stagger shifts, limit the number of people in one place, and take reasonable precautions to keep workers safe and healthy under the recent guidelines issued by Ontario’s Chief Prevention Officer for construction sites.
Ontario is also making essential workplaces across the province safer during the COVID-19 pandemic by:
- Redeploying more than 30 employment standards officers to help businesses understand and comply with health and safety requirements;
- Working with health and safety associations to deploy up to 30 specialists to support employers and workers in the field;
- Issuing health and safety guidance notes to support specific sectors;
- Doubling the capacity of Ontario’s Health and Safety Call Centre from 25 to 50 phonelines;
- Providing job-protected leave under the Employment Standards Act for workers who need to self-isolate or care for a loved one because of COVID-19;
- Issuing a call to recently-retired inspectors who may be able and willing to return to their positions;
- Providing compliance assistance and enforcing the emergency orders issued under the Emergency Measures and Civil Protection Act.

Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce has hosted a number of FREE webinars to help businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can view past webinars on our website. Stay tuned for more information on upcoming webinars.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up (see attached information).

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

04/07/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber Update for today outlines government updates, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting a free webinar to help businesses – please see below for details and stay tuned for more webinars to come.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health is now updating their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 207 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Provincial Government Update

Today, the Premier announced a new online tool that will help match skilled frontline workers with employers. The new Health Workforce Matching Portal will enable health care providers with a range of experience to join the province’s response to COVID-19. Those providers include retired or non-active health care professionals, internationally educated health care professionals, students, and volunteers with health care experience. The portal will efficiently match the availability and skillsets of frontline health care workers to the employers in need of assistance to perform a variety of public health functions, such as case and contact management. Employers and interested health care professional can visit the portal here.

Federal Government Update

Applications opened for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks.
The government is staggering applications by month of birth and has outlined the following schedule for applications:
- Those born in January, February, and March are able to apply today (April 6)
- Those born in April, May, and June are able to apply tomorrow (April 7)
- Those born in July, August, and September are able to apply on Wed (April 8)
- Those born in October, November, and December are able to apply on Thurs (April 9)
- Friday, Saturday, and Sundays are available for those born in any month
You can find out more information on how to apply here. Applications will accepted online through your CRA My Account or by phone through an automated service.
For businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Details about when to apply for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) have not yet been released; we will post an update as soon as those details are available. When applications do open, it is expected that eligible employers would be able to apply for the (CEWS) through the CRA’s My Business Account Please visit the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy website for more information.

Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting the following FREE webinar. Stay tuned for upcoming webinars:

Wednesday April 8^th, 2:00pm EST – Top 5 COVID Questions asked by Small Business presented by BDO

In this webinar, Tim Sothern, Partner with BDO Canada LLP will discuss the various questions asked by BDO clients as they deal with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tim will cover questions that businesses are asking around laying off staff, what lending options are available for businesses, deferring HST and source deduction payments, and deadlines for filing tax returns and making tax payments. Register Today!

We have hosted several webinars to help the business community through the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have missed them, you can watch the recordings here.

Community Support

Grand River Hospital is in need of surgical masks. If you have any new, unopened, boxed surgical masks, please contact ads@uwimprint.ca to organize drop off or pick up (see attached information).

We Want to Hear from You!

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Statistics Canada to launch the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions. This survey will measure the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses and help the Government of Canada devise strategies and mechanisms to foster the survival and continuity of businesses in Canada.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

The Toronto Region Board of Trade, along with their partners, have launched a Business Support Portal that provides businesses with resources and advice featuring the ability to chat live with a business agent for direction, searchable information on resources and programs available to SMEs, Toronto Region Board of Trade virtual events, and current public health information. This resource is available to our local business community to access.
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery.

04/06/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber COVID-19 Update for today outlines government updates, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting a free webinar to help businesses – please see below for details and stay tuned for more webinars to come.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health are now updating their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 185 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

Applications opened for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) today (this is not the temporary wage subsidy). The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks.
- The government is staggering applications by month of birth and has outlined the following schedule for applications:
  - Those born in January, February, and March are able to apply today (April 6)
  - Those born in April, May, and June are able to apply tomorrow (April 7)
  - Those born in July, August, and September are able to apply on Wed (April 8)
  - Those born in October, November, and December are able to apply on Thurs (April 9)
  - Friday, Saturday, and Sundays are available for those born in any month
- You can find out more information on how to apply here. Applications will accepted online through your CRA My Account or by phone through an automated service.
For businesses who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, it is encouraged that business owners register on the CRA My Business Account if they haven’t already. Having this account will enable direct deposit of funds and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
The Prime Minister announced today that those who are working reduced hours due to COVID-19 will soon be able to apply for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit – details and eligibility will be announced soon
In partnership with the Government of Canada, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has launched the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery. This site will:
- - Provide tools and supports to businesses in their business continuity efforts – from development to implementation.
  - Provide a consistent and reliable flow of accurate, up-to-date, authoritative information.
  - Work closely with government to ensure the right supports are in place and to be a conduit for information from the government to the private sector.

Provincial Government Update

As announced on Friday by the Premier, the list of essential businesses has been reduced in Ontario. You can see the list of essential workplaces that can remain open here. If you have questions about impacts to your business or employment, please call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.

Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting the following FREE webinar:

Wed., April 8^th at 2:00pm EST – Top 5 COVID Questions asked by Small Business presented by BDO.

We have hosted several webinars to help the business community through the COVID-19 pandemic. If you have missed them, you can watch the recordings here.

We Want to Hear from You!

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.
The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin is conducting a survey to learn how COVID-19 has impacted people jobs in our region. They are looking for everyone to response – those who are self-employed, those still working, those laid-off and those who have stepped back from job searching at this time. They will use the results to better inform their efforts to support the community through these challenging times

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

During this time, if you are a Chamber member and your business has any special offers, updates, or resources you would like shared with our membership, we want to know! Fill out this short form with your update and we will compile submissions onto our website and share on our social media channels.

04/03/2020

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health are now updating their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 148 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Provincial Government Update

Following advice from Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Ontario is reducing the list of essential businesses classified as essential and ordering more workplaces to close. The government is ordering all businesses not covered by the updated list of essential workplaces to close effective as of Saturday April 4, 2020 at 11:59pm. The updated list will direct additional businesses to close and restricts specified businesses to providing services by alternate methods such as curb side pick up and delivery, except in exceptional circumstances. This includes stores that sell hardware products, vehicle parts and supplies, pet and animal supplies, office supplies and computer products and repairs and safety supplies. Only critical construction projects will continue, including industrial projects such as refineries and petrochemical plants and infrastructure projects such as new hospitals, roads and bridges. New starts in residential projects will stop, while residential construction that is near completion will continue. Business-owners with questions concerning their essential business status are encouraged to call the Stop the Spread hotline at 1-888-444-3659. The hotline is available from 8:30 a.m.― 9:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8:30 a.m.— 5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development is giving workers in the construction sector an extra year to renew their training if they work at heights. The The extension will apply to workers who successfully completed their working-at-heights training between February 28 and August 31, 2017. The validity period, normally three years, would have ended this year. It will now end in 2021. The extension will ensure affected workers can continue to work when possible.

Federal Government Update

The government will start accepting applications for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) on Monday April 6^th (for clarification – this is not the temporary wage subsidy). The CERB is intended to provide temporary income support to workers who have stopped working and are without employment or self-employment income for reasons related to COVID-19. The benefit will provide $500 per week for up to 16 weeks. You can find out more information on how to apply here. Applications will accepted online through your CRA My Account or by phone through an automated service.
For those who will be applying to Federal government relief programs, it is encouraged that business owners get registered on the CRA My Business Account to provide direct deposit information and speed up the process of receiving relief when it is available.
Today, the Prime Minister announced support for food banks and local food organizations.

Upcoming Chamber Webinar

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting the following FREE webinar:

Monday April 6^th, 1:30pm EST – Connecting the Dots: Navigating Government Support for Business During COVID-19 presented by Earnscliffe

The national response to the COVID-19 crisis has seen all aspects of Canadian society pull together. However, many businesses are struggling right now to make decisions on the future and are overwhelmed with the amount of information about programs that are available. Julie Garner, Principal with Earnscliffe will provide an overview of the programs and provide advice for navigating them in this challenging time. Register Today!

We Want to Hear from You!

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.
The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin is conducting a survey to learn how COVID-19 has impacted people jobs in our region. They are looking for everyone to response – those who are self-employed, those still working, those laid-off and those who have stepped back from job searching at this time. They will use the results to better inform their efforts to support the community through these challenging times

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Resources

Tune into the Business to Business radio program on 570 News hosted by Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce and Greg Durocher, President & CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce this weekend! The program will air Saturday at 1:00pm and Sunday at 12:00pm and will have several guests talking about COVID-19 and business:
- Associate Minister of Small Business & Red Tape Reduction, Prabmeet Sarkaria joins the show to discuss the Ontario Action Plan and how it aims to help small businesses in easing some of the uncertainty in weathering the pandemic.
- J.D. Bellavance, Parliamentary Bureau Chief for La Presse shares his perspective from Ottawa on the latest in government measures to help small and medium-sized businesses, including the wage subsidy.
- Tim Sothern, Partner with BDO Kitchener-Waterloo discusses how BDO is advising businesses owners on navigating the upcoming government relief programs.
- Carolyn Nephew, National Vice President of Sales, Trade Credit & Political Risk with Cowan Insurance Group discusses how delayed payments in a supply chain can put a supplier in jeopardy, and how accounts receivable insurance can help

04/02/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber COVID-19 Update for today outlines government updates, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting free webinars to help businesses – please see below for details and stay tuned for more webinars to come.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health are now updating their website with COVID-19 case information daily at 10:30am. Today, they posted that there are 129 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

Information about the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy that the Federal Government announced can be found on their website. We will share more details about the wage subsidy, including how to apply, as soon as they are available.

Provincial Government Update

Ontario is increasing mental health support during COVID-19 by providing emergency funding of up to $12 million to immediately expand online and virtual mental health supports for everyone, especially those on the front lines.
Ontario’s Government is supporting the trucking sector in order to keep goods moving. They are keeping all 23 ONroute travel plazas open for take-out, grab and go and drive-through services, including washrooms with enhanced cleaning. They are also providing portable washrooms at 32 truck inspection stations so trucks have a place to stop and rest safely. These actions build on measures the government announced last month that allow the 24-hour delivery of goods without the restrictions of municipal noise by-laws, and the extension of the validation of driver’s licences, Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration certificates and other products that expired on or after March 1, 2020.
Yesterday, the Provincial Government has launched a new $50 million Ontario Together Fund that will support the development of essential equipment and supplies. This fund will support those businesses who can provide innovative solutions or retool their operations in order to manufacture essential medical supplies and equipment, including gowns, coveralls, masks, face shields, testing equipment and ventilators. Interested businesses can submit their proposals through the Ontario Together web portal.

Upcoming Chamber Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting the following FREE webinars:

Friday April 3rd, 2:00pm EST – COVID-19 and Your Business presented by Cowan Insurance

The impact of COVID-19 is changing the way we all do business. Experts from Cowan Insurance Group are here to answer your questions on business insurance, benefits, personal insurance, and wealth management. Our presenters are Nick Goodfellow, Sales Consultant, Small Business Solutions; Tracy Spark, Business Development Executive, COWAN INFINITE; Rob Salvucci, Vice President, Wealth Management; and, Julie Brisson, Principal, Group Benefits. Register Today!

Monday April 6^th, 1:30pm EST – Connecting the Dots: Navigating Government Support for Business During COVID-19 presented by Earnscliffe

We Want to Hear from You!

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.
The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin is conducting a survey to learn how COVID-19 has impacted people jobs in our region. They are looking for everyone to response – those who are self-employed, those still working, those laid-off and those who have stepped back from job searching at this time. They will use the results to better inform their efforts to support the community through these challenging times

04/01/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber COVID-19 Update for today outlines updates from the Federal and Provincial governments, as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, the Chamber is hosting two webinars this week to help businesses – please see below for details and stay tuned for more webinars to come.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health announced this morning that there are 117 positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. Waterloo Region’s second death due to COVID-19 was reported today. The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce sends our sincere condolences to all those affected by these losses.
You can find a Waterloo Region COVID-19 Summary on their website.

Federal Government Update

Today the Federal Finance Minister announced more details about the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy program for businesses:
- The wage subsidy would apply at a rate of 75 per cent of the first $58,700 normally earned by employees – representing a benefit of up to $847 per week. The program would be in place for a 12-week period, from March 15 to June 6, 2020.
- Eligible employers who suffer a drop in gross revenues of at least 30 per cent in March, April or May, when compared to the same month in 2019, would be able to access the subsidy.
- Eligible employers would include employers of all sizes and across all sectors of the economy, with the exception of public sector entities.
- For non-profit organizations and registered charities similarly affected by a loss of revenue, the government will continue to work with the sector to ensure the definition of revenue is appropriate to their circumstances. The government is also considering additional support for non-profits and charities, particularly those involved in the front line response to COVID-19. Further details will be announced in the near term.
- An eligible employer’s entitlement to this wage subsidy will be based entirely on the salary or wages actually paid to employees. All employers would be expected to at least make best efforts to top up salaries to 100% of the maximum wages covered.
- Minister Morneau reported today that businesses will be able to apply online for this subsidy through a portal on the Canada Revenue Agency site. The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy funds are expected to start flowing in 6 weeks time.
We will provide you with more detail about the application process as it becomes available.

Provincial Government Update

The Provincial Government has launched a new $50 million Ontario Together Fund that will support the development of essential equipment and supplies. This fund will support those businesses who can provide innovative solutions or retool their operations in order to manufacture essential medical supplies and equipment, including gowns, coveralls, masks, face shields, testing equipment and ventilators. Interested businesses can submit their proposals through the Ontario Together web portal.

Upcoming Chamber Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting the following FREE webinars:

Thursday April 2nd, 3:00pm EST – Cybersecurity Best Practices for Working Remotely presented by BlackBerry

If you have staff working remotely then we encourage you to join us to learn about best practices in cybersecurity when you have a team working remotely. Our guest will be Alex Willis, Vice President, Sales Engineering & ISV Partners from BlackBerry who will talk about the importance of protecting your company from security risks and tools that are available for you to use. Register Today!

Friday April 3rd, 2:00pm EST – COVID-19 and Your Business presented by Cowan Insurance

Virtual Event – Tonight (Wed. April 1^st) at 8:00 pm!
Join Mike Farwell of 570 News for a virtual panel discussion with the leaders of Cambridge Memorial Hospital, Grand River Hospital, and St. Mary’s General Hospital. In addition to providing an update of their respective readiness and active response to the COVID-19 outbreak across Waterloo Region, the hospital leaders will field questions from the listening audience. Guests will be: Patrick Gaskin, President & Chief Executive Officer, Cambridge Memorial Hospital; Ron Gagnon, President & CEO, Grand River Hospital; and, Lee Fairclough, President, St. Mary’s General Hospital. You can watch or listen to this event on Wednesday, April 1st @ 8:00 pm through 570 News AM channel, Rogers tv channel 20, Rogerstv.com, YouTube.com/c/rogerstvofficial, Facebook.com/Rogerstv20

We Want to Hear from You!

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.
The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin is conducting a survey to learn how COVID-19 has impacted people jobs in our region. They are looking for everyone to response – those who are self-employed, those still working, those laid-off and those who have stepped back from job searching at this time. They will use the results to better inform their efforts to support the community through these challenging times

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

03/31/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Please see our Chamber COVID-19 Update for today below. In addition, we are looking for feedback from the business community – please see below for two ways that you can provide your feedback.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health is updating the number of confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region on their website on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays at 10:30am. As of yesterday, there were 60 confirmed positive cases and 43 presumptive positive cases in Waterloo Region. Today, Region of Waterloo Public Health confirmed the first death related to COVID-19 in our region. Please check the Region of Waterloo Public Health website for up to date COVID-19 information for our region.

Federal Government Update

Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau and the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion & Trade, Mary Ng, have indicated that they will be providing more details about the 75% wage subsidy for businesses tomorrow. We will provide you with these details as soon as they are available.

Provincial Government Update

Today, Ontario’s Premier announced that Ontario is extending school and child care closures. Public schools will remain closed to students until Monday May 4^th and as that date comes closer, this decision will be re-evaluations based on public health advice. Details on these closures and education continuance can be found using the link provided.

Upcoming FREE Webinar

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting a FREE webinar, Cybersecurity Best Practices for Working Remotely, this Thursday April 2^nd at 3:00pm EST. If you have staff working remotely then we encourage you to join us to learn about best practices in cybersecurity when you have a team working remotely. Our guest will be Alex Willis, Vice President, Sales Engineering & ISV Partners from BlackBerry who will talk about the importance of protecting your company from security risks and tools that are available for you to use. Register Today!

We Want to Hear from You!

Feedback from the business community is critical to help direct advocacy efforts and share the information/resources that are needed during this COVID-19 pandemic. Please see below for two ways that you can provide your feedback.

Canada’s Innovation Corridor Business Council, which is comprised of 14 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade in southwestern Ontario including our Chamber, is seeking feedback from the business community on the impact of COVID-19. This responses will be summarized and passed along to the municipal leaders, as well as the Premier and the Prime Minister. Please take a few minutes to provide your feedback! This questionnaire will be open until Tues March 31 at 5:00pm EST.
The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

03/30/2020

We hope that you, your staff, and families are well. Our Chamber COVID-19 Update for today outlines updates from all levels of government – including details from the Federal Government about the increased wage subsidy announced Friday – as well as an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, we are looking for feedback from the business community – please see below for two ways that you can provide your feedback.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health announced this morning that there are 60 confirmed positive and 43 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find more information about these cases on their website.

Federal Government Update

As a follow up to the Prime Minister’s announcement on Friday outlining increased financial assistance for small and medium-sized businesses, more details were made available today about the wage subsidy to help businesses keep their staff employed. Details about the 75% of wage subsidy include:
Businesses with a revenue decrease of 30% or more due to COVID-19 will be eligible
Not for profit and charitable organizations will be eligible for the wage subsidy, as will businesses of all sizes
Number of employees that an organization has is not an eligibility requirement
This program will cover up to 75% of the first $58,700 earned (or up to $847/week)
The wage subsidy will be backdated to March 15, 2020
For those businesses who can afford to top up their staff’s wages to cover the remaining 25%, the Prime Minister is encouraging them to do so
We will share details about how to access these funds as they are made available

Provincial Government Update

On Sunday, the Provincial government announced updated guidance to help construction employers better understand their responsibilities and what is needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on the job site.
As a reminder, the Government of Ontario announced providing electricity relief for families, small businesses and farms during COVID-19 on March 24, 2020 effectively immediately. Residential and small business customers on time-of-use (TOU) pricing will pay 10.1 ¢/kWh no matter what time of day the electricity is consumed. The Government has indicated that it intends to keep the 10.1 ¢/kWh pricing in place for 45 days. The 10.1 ¢/kWh pricing applies automatically – no customer action is required. Some customers may receive a bill before their utility or unit sub-meter provider is able to implement the price change, in which case they will receive a credit on the following bill.

Municipal Government Update

On Friday, the Region of Waterloo announced that it is coordinating emergency child care for critical service workers. This child care will be available 24/7 for parents who provide critical services in our community and it will be free. More details and the application can be found on the website.

We Want to Hear from You!

Canada’s Innovation Corridor Business Council, which is comprised of 14 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade in southwestern Ontario including our Chamber, is seeking feedback from the business community on the impact of COVID-19. This responses will be summarized and passed along to the municipal leaders, as well as the Premier and the Prime Minister. Please take a few minutes to provide your feedback! This questionnaire will be open until Tues March 31 at 5:00pm EST.
The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

03/27/2020

There were several financial supports for small and medium-sized businesses announced by the Prime Minister today. For information about this important assistance, along with several other updates, please see below.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Update

Region of Waterloo Public Health announced that there are 69 confirmed or presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region. You can find more information about these cases on their website.

Federal Government Update

Today, the Prime Minister announced a major increase to financial supports for small and medium-sized businesses. Those supports include:
The wage subsidy available for qualifying businesses has increased from a 10% subsidy to a 75% subsidy for up to three months, and will be retroactive to Sunday March 15, 2020
The federal government is launching the Canada Emergency Business Account for small businesses that will see banks offer loans of up to $40,000 government-guaranteed loans that will be interest free for the first year. If certain conditions are met, then the first $10,000 of the loan will be forgiven.
The government will be providing an additional $12.5 billion to the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC)
Businesses, including self-employed individuals, will have more time to make HST and GST payments, which are being deferred until June 2020
Earlier this week, our Chamber along with our partners Communitech, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and Waterloo EDC sent a letter to the Prime Minister and Premier on Ontario, outlining recommendations to help better support businesses. We were pleased with the federal government’s response today as they are acting on several of the recommendations in that letter. These measures are important for our local business community, as well as businesses across the province and country. The Prime Minister indicated today that more information about these programs would be available on Monday. As those details become available, we will share it through our updates and on our website.

Advocacy Update

As a follow up to the letter that was sent to the Prime Minister and Premier of Ontario earlier this week, an op-ed was published by the Waterloo Region Record online yesterday and in print today.
Today, the region announced the creation of the Business and Economic Support Team of Waterloo Region (BESTWR). This initiative is a partnership between the region, all seven area municipalities, Waterloo EDC, Communitech, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce to help all types of local businesses cope with the challenges caused by COVID-19. In addition to the partners noted above, members of BESTWR will include representatives from the Region and all area municipalities, and representatives from many other organizations engaged in supporting our local businesses and the local economy. More information about BESTWR will be available in the coming days.

Calls for Industry Support

Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen) announced $50 million in Supercluster funding to support companies as they rapidly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic by building a Canadian supply of essential equipment, products, and therapeutics. Please visit the NGen website for more information.
The Provincial Government’s Ontario Together: Help Fight Coronavirus program is welcoming help from businesses and organization who can supply emergency products and innovative solutions to support their response to COVID-19.
The Federal Government is asking Canadian manufacturers or businesses to contact them if they can assist in meeting the need for medical supplies.

We Want to Hear from You!

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is concerned about you and your business as we manage the impact of COVID-19. Our goal is to understand and articulate your business needs so the Chamber can be helpful as we speak at the local, provincial and federal levels of government. In addition, we strive to coordinate resources between government and our local business community, share information and provide assistance to help maneuver through these times. Please take a couple of minutes to complete our survey today.

Chamber Member Promotions & Updates

Webinars

Did you miss our COVID-19 and Your Business webinar yesterday? Don’t worry! The webinar was recorded and you can watch it here!

03/26/2020

Our Chamber update for today including announcements from municipal, provincial, and federal governments; an update from Region of Waterloo Public Health; advocacy efforts; upcoming webinars; and, resources for businesses.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Updates

Region of Waterloo Public Health is updating the number of confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region on their website on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays at 10:30am. As of yesterday, there were 58 confirmed cases presumptive positive cases in Waterloo Region. Please check the Region of Waterloo Public Health website for up to date COVID-19 information for our region.

Municipal Government Updates

Yesterday, The City of Waterloo and The City of Cambridge announced economic response plans to provide financial relief for residents.

Provincial Government Update

Ontario is enabling financial relief for businesses through allowing businesses in the province to defer their premium payments for six months until August 31, 2020. All employers who are covered by the WSIB’s workplace insurance are automatically eligible for the provisions of the relief package and they will not be required to opt in to receive this benefit. Additionally, the WSIB will cease interest accrual on all outstanding premium payments. There will be no negative consequences for businesses who defer premium reporting and payments. The WSIB will continue to fully cover workers at eligible workplaces. Please visit WSIB for more information.
Additional information on Ontario’s Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19 is now available. Included in the plan :
- A proposed temporary increase to the Employer Health Tax (EHT) exemption from $490,000 to $1 million for 2020. With this plan, more than 90% of private-sector employers would not pay EHT in 2020.
- A five-month interest and penalty-free period for businesses to make payments for the majority of provincially administered taxes beginning April 1, 2020.
- Setting electricity prices for residential, farm, and small business time-of-use customers at the lowest rate (off-peak price), 24 hours a day for the next 45 days (previously announced)
- Working with the federal government to find ways to support apprentices and enable businesses to continue to retain these skilled trades workers during the COVID-19 outbreak

Advocacy

Yesterday, a joint letter from the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Waterloo EDC, and Communitech was sent to the Prime Minister and Premier of Ontario. In this letter, the heads of these leading business organizations in Waterloo Region, who together represent over 90,000 workers and 3,500 businesses of every type and size, have summarized their recommendations to help support the business community during COVID-19. An op-ed, Responding to COVID-19 required unprecedented and urgent government support, has been published on The Waterloo Region Record site and will be published in print tomorrow (Friday).

We Want to Hear from You!

Upcoming FREE Webinars

If you missed our COVID-19 and Your Business today, then you will still be able to access it. We will post this webinar on our website within the next day. Please stay tuned!

03/25/2020

GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS

A joint letter from the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Waterloo EDC, and Communitech was sent to the Prime Minister and Premier of Ontario on March 25, 2020. In this letter, the heads of these leading business organizations in Waterloo Region, who together represent over 90,000 workers and 3,500 businesses of every type and size, have summarized their recommendations to help support the business community during COVID-19.

View letter: New Government Response to COVID Virus for Business and Communities.v2 (1)

03/25/2020

Businesses who have questions about closures of at-risk workplaces or how emergency measures impact their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659, 8:30am – 5:00pm.

Government Announcements

Mental Health Resources

Stay Safe

COVID-19 Symptom Self-Assessment Tool, Government of Canada

03/24/2020

In today’s update, we wanted to provide you with information about important announcements from the Provincial and Federal Governments, as well as information from Region of Waterloo Public Health, and upcoming free webinars and additional resources for businesses.

Provincial Government Updates

Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the Government of Ontario has ordered at-risk workplaces to close-down by 11:59pm today, while encouraging businesses to explore opportunities to continue their operations through work-from-home and innovative business models. Essential businesses who will be staying open are asked to implement any and all measures to safeguard the wellbeing of their employees. Read the list of Essential Workplaces here. The Ontario government will be launching a website and a 1-800 number where inquires can be directed and we will share this information with our members as soon as it becomes available.
This afternoon, the Premier of Ontario announced that the government is providing electricity relief to families, small businesses, and farms due to COVID-19. For a 45-day period, the government is working to suspend time-of-use electricity rates, holding electricity prices to the off-peak rate of 10.1 cents-per-kilowatt-hour. This reduced price will be available 24 hours per day, seven days a week to all time-of-use customers, who make up the majority of electricity consumers in the province. The discount will be applied automatically to electricity bills and customers do not need to complete an application to receive these savings.

Federal Government Updates

The House of Commons has been recalled and are Members of Parliament are meeting today regarding the introduction of urgent economic measures, as part of Canada’s $82 billion response to support workers and businesses during the COVID919 pandemic.

Region of Waterloo Public Health Updates

Region of Waterloo Public Health is updating the number of confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region on their website on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays at 10:30am. As of yesterday, there were 17 confirmed cases and 15 presumptive positive cases in Waterloo Region. Please check the Region of Waterloo Public Health website for up to date COVID-19 information for our region.
You can find a list of Region of Waterloo service changes and closures due to COVID-19 through the Region of Waterloo Public Health site.

Upcoming FREE Webinars

The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is hosting a FREE webinar, COVID-19 and Your Business, this Thursday March 26th at 4:00pm. Join us to hear from our Chamber’s President & CEO, Ian McLean, for an update on COVID-19 and the impacts to your business, as well as how the Chamber can continue to support you during this difficult time. Register Today!

Other free webinars that are being hosted include:

BDC Webinar: How to cope with the impacts of COVID-19 on your business – tomorrow (March 25^th) at 12:00pm EST
BDO Webinar: Cash Flow Strategies and Government Incentives in the time of COVID-19 – Thursday March 26^th at 12:30pm EST

Additional Resources

Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings, Public Health Ontario

03/23/2020

Today, Premier Doug Ford announced the closure of all non-essential workplaces to fight the spread of COVID-19 that will come into effect Tuesday March 24^th at 11:59pm. This closure will be in effect for 14 days with the possibility of extending as the situation evolves. A full list of businesses that are permitted to stay open will be released tomorrow (Tues) and we will send an update tomorrow to share those details. The province will have a 1-800 number and website available on Wed March 25^th for any inquires.

Today, the Prime Minister announced a plan to mobilize science to fight COVID-19 that will support our country’s researchers as they do critical work to protect the health and safety of all Canadians, and people around the world, during the COVID-19 outbreak. In addition, the Government of Canada announced new measures to support for farmers and agri-food businesses facing financial hardship due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Region of Waterloo Public Health provided an update this morning that there are 17 confirmed COVID cases in Waterloo Region plus an additional 15 presumptive positive cases. Among the confirmed and presumptive cases include those due to community transmission and close contact. Containing the spread is the most important action that we can all take to protect businesses, staff, and the community. Please continue to follow the instructions from the Region of Waterloo Public Health, the Ministry of Health, and the Public Health Agency of Canada for information on protecting yourself and slowing the spread of COVID-19.

Can your business help?

Provincial Government

The Ontario Government has launched Ontario Together: Help Fight Coronavirus and would like to hear from businesses and organizations who can supply emergency products and innovative solutions to support the COVID-19 response.

Federal Government

The Government of Canada would like to hear from businesses and manufacturers who can assist in meeting the needs for medical supplies. The Plan to Mobilize Industry to fight COVID-19 directly supports businesses to rapidly scale up production or re-tool their manufacturing lines to develop products that will help in the fight against COVID-19.
Help Canada Combat Coronavirus Submission Form
For any questions/requests/applications for medical devices, including test kits, please email:
devicelicensing-homologationinstruments.sc@canada.ca
For any questions/requests/applications for other health products, including hand sanitizer, please email: covid19healthproducts-produitsdesante.sc@canada.ca
For questions and offers on retooling, please email: mid-dim.ic@canada.ca
The National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Programwill build on its existing relationships with thousands of Canada’s most innovative small and medium-sized businesses to pose challenges to the marketplace for innovative solutions to fight COVID-19. The most promising solutions will be selected for procurement, working with Innovative Solutions Canada.

CCc advocates for canadian businesses

03/20/2020

There were two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region today. Please keep up to date on COVID-19 developments in our region through Region of Waterloo Public Health. In addition, please find out about the service changes and closures in Waterloo Region due to COVID-19.

As the Prime Minister announced earlier this week, non-essential travel Canada and the United States will be restricted, which will not impact trade. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce continues to advocate on behalf of all Canadian businesses the importance for ensuring trade flows between Canada and the United States.

This afternoon, Premier Ford announced that the government is helping students learn from the safety of their own home while schools are closed. This assistance includes offering educational programming throughout the day for school-aged children on TVO Kids. Other resources will also be available to children to learn during their time at home.

Business Resources:

In addition to the resources that we have previously sent out, please see the following information:

The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is hosting a free webinar How to cope with the impacts of COVID-19 on your business on March 25, 2020 at 12:00pm EST
Download the Canada Business App provided by the Government of Canada to find tailored supports to address your specific needs and questions about COVID-19
Canada’s Plan to Mobilize Industry to fight COVID-19: If you are a Canadian manufacturer or business that can assist Canada in meeting the need for medical supplies, your help is needed
Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan: Support for Canadians and Businesses

Provincial and Federal Government Announcements

03/19/2020

As new information is continually being released about COVID-19, we are working hard to gather and summarize the information to share with our members. As you know, there have been several government announcements in the last few days about assistance that will be provided to businesses and individuals. Below is a summary of some of those measures. In the coming days we will provide practical information on how to apply for the assistance listed below.

Provincial Government Announcements

Federal Government Announcements

Work-Sharing Program (Federal) – temporary measures for the downturn in business due to COVID-19
The one-week waiting period for EI sickness benefitswill be waived for new claimants who are quarantined so they can be paid for the first week of their claim. Those who are eligible can apply online.
The Emergency Support Benefit has been introduced to support workers who are not eligible for EI and who are facing unemployment. We will share details on how to apply once they are available.
The Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) will allow the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and Export Development Canada (EDC) to provide more than $10 billion of additional support, largely targeted to small and medium-sized businesses.
A Temporary Wage Subsidy will be introduced to support businesses that are facing revenue losses and to help prevent lay-offs. The subsidy would be equal to 10% of remuneration paid during a period of time of up to three months, up to a maximum subsidy of $1,375 per employee and $25,000 per employer.
The Bank of Canada also took a series of actions to support the Canadian economy during this period of economic stress, enhance the resilience of the Canadian financial system, and help ensure that financial institutions can continue to extend credit to both households and businesses. This included cutting the interest rate to 0.75% as a proactive measure.
The CRA will allow businesses to defer the payment of any income tax amounts that become owing on or after today and September 2020 until August 31, 2020.
The Federal Government would like to hear from businesses who can supply products and services in support of Canada’s response to COVID-19?

Chamber Event Rescheduling

03/17/2020

We know that this is a very challenging time for our members and we are committed to supporting the local community in any way possible. The Chamber continues to work hard to access information and resources to help our members through this very difficult time. We know that this situation is causing concern and uncertainly and we will continue to provide updates to our members by email and through our website. Please visit our COVID-19 Resources for your Business page for resources that may be helpful for your business. Please feel free to reach out to us by phone or email and we will try to help in any way possible. You can find our staff directory on our website.

In accordance with advice from health officials and in an effort to protect the health and safety of our members, staff, and community, the Chamber will be rescheduling all events that were scheduled to occur from now until the end of May. Among the events being rescheduled include Canada’s Innovation Corridor Summit, the Manufacturing Summit, Leadercast, and the Energy & Environment Forum. Registrations for the impacted events will be valid for the new dates and information about refunds can be found on our website.

Our staff at the Chamber has been working hard to meet the needs of our members during this extremely difficult time. As the COVID-19 situation rapidly changes, we continue to monitor new developments and updates as they are released. We will provide updates as more information becomes available about the assistance that the Ontario Government and Federal Government have announced.

Thank you for your continued support of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and we are here to support you and your business as best as we can.

CHAMBER OFFICE HOURS UPDATE

03/16/2020

The Greater KW Chamber staff is working hard to meet the needs of our members during this extremely difficult time. As the COVID-19 situation rapidly changes, we continue to monitor the updates and developments as they are released. In an effort to protect the health and safety of our staff, members, and the community, the Chamber staff will be working remotely until further notice and our office will be closed to visitors. Our staff will be available Monday through Friday between 8:30am – 4:30pm and you can refer to our staff directory for the appropriate contact information.

We know that this is a very challenging time for our members and we are committed to supporting you and our community. Please continue to reach out to us by phone or email and we would be happy to help.

We will continue to provide COVID-19 information and resources that can help our members. You will receive these updates, as well as updates related to our events, through email, social media, and our website.

You can find resources on our website to help your business, including:

Pandemic Preparedness Resources for Businesses from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Resources on preventing the spread, self-isolating, self-monitoring
Update to date COVID-19 information from the Region of Waterloo Public Health, Ministry of Health, Public Health Agency of Canada, and the World Health Organization

Additional Resources:

Gkwcc update

03/13/2020

As the situation with COVID-19 Coronavirus continues to rapidly change globally and locally, we are monitoring the developments closely. The health and safety of our members, event attendees, community, and staff is of the utmost importance to us and as such, we have made the decision to reschedule our upcoming events between now and April 23, 2020. Registrations for the impacted events will be valid for the new dates and information about refunds can be found on our website. We are evaluating the Chamber events that are scheduled beyond April 23, 2020 and will provide an update to our members as soon as possible.

While we are rescheduling upcoming events, the Chamber continues to work hard to access information and resources to help our members through this very difficult time. We are in contact with Public Health and will actively work with municipal, Provincial, and Federal government officials to advocate for businesses in our region. We know that this situation is causing concern and uncertainly and we will continue to provide updates and resources to our members by email and through this webpage.

As a reminder, you can find the most up to date information about COVID-19 as well as helpful resources on the following sites:

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce offers a Pandemic Preparedness Resources for Businesses. In addition, the Government of Canada has created a Risk Assessment Tool that can used to make informed decisions about mass gatherings during this time.

We sincerely thank you for your continued support of the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce and we are here to support you and your business as best we can.

Regarding Upcoming Events

We feel rescheduling these events is the wise thing to do as the health and safety of our members, event attendees, community, and staff is of the utmost importance. We are not cancelling any programs, but instead are rescheduling for a later date.

The events currently being rescheduled include:

Manulife Chamber Academy – March 24
Cyber Security Summit – March 24
MNP Networking Breakfast Series – March 26
Manulife Chamber Academy – April 7
Libro Chamber Young Professionals – April 7
Jay Fencing Business After 5 – April 15
Energy & Environment Forum – April 23

We are closely monitoring the situation and will reschedule when we feel it is completely safe to do so for everyone concerned. We are evaluating the Chamber events that are scheduled beyond April 23, 2020 and will provide an update to our members as soon as possible.

Current registrations for the events listed above will be valid for the new event dates. If the new event date does not fit in your schedule, refunds will be available at that time. During this time it may take longer than usual to respond and process your request.

Upcoming GKWCC Events

03/12/2020

As you may have heard today, there have been two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 Coronavirus in Waterloo Region. Please continue following the Region of Waterloo Public Health website for up to date information.

Yesterday, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce released a statement about the Federal Government’s COVID-19 response plan. You can read the Canadian Chamber’s statement here.

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 Coronavirus situation and we have been in contact with Region of Waterloo Public Health. We are evaluating our upcoming events and will provide an update as soon as possible. As we announced earlier this week, we have temporarily revised our refund policy to allow registrants to cancel up until the start of the event and receive a full refund. If you would like a refund, please email events@greaterkwchamber.com with the email titled ‘event refund’. Please specify the event, company name, and full name the registration is under.

Resources

Several COVID-19 Awareness Resources from the Government of Canada, including:
- Reduce the spread of COVID-19: Wash your hands
- How to care for a person with COVID-19 at home: Advice for caregivers
- Vulnerable populations and COVID-19
- How to isolate at home when you have COVID-19

Several COVID-19 posters from the Region of Waterloo Public Health:
- Help stop the spread of germs !
- How to self-isolate
- How to self-monitor
- The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has several resources available for Pandemic Preparedness for Business

We will continue to monitor the developments daily and update you with resources and information as it becomes available. To keep up to date on COVID-19 Coronavirus, please follow:

We encourage everyone to protect their own health and safety as well as the health and safety of others by:

Staying home if feeling unwell
Washing your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds
Avoiding close contact with those who are sick
Cleaning and disinfecting high touch surfaces regularly
Sneezing and coughing into your sleeve
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

GKWCC Event update

03/09/2020

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC) continues to monitor and assess new developments pertaining to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). In terms of the GKWCC’s upcoming events, we are taking our lead from Public Health, who is currently not suggesting the postponement or cancellation any of our scheduled events. As a result, we are proceeding as planned with all upcoming GKWCC events.

The safety and well-being of our members and community are of the utmost importance to us. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will update this policy as required. We will communicate any event changes to registrants, our members, and the public through email, social media posts, and updates on our web site. In the meantime, we are exploring alternative options for our events – including holding virtual events or rescheduling – in case the directive from Public Health changes.

Currently, we encourage all event attendees to:

Evaluate their own health (and the health of people they’re in close contact with), when deciding to attend an upcoming GKWCC event. A temporary change to our refund policy has been made for those who are no longer able to attend an event (see below).
Follow the guidance of the Region of Waterloo Public Health for everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of viruses, including but not limited to:
- Wash your hands often with warm water and soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- Avoid contact with people who are sick
- Stay home when you are sick
- Sneeze and cough into your sleeve
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Use sanitization materials offered complimentary at Chamber events
Greet other event attendees with a fist bump or wave, instead of a handshake

Temporary Change to the GKWCC Refund Policy

During this time, we have revised our GKWCC Event Refund Policy for registrants. If you are not able to attend an in-person event, please contact our Events team by email prior to the event. For select events being held using virtual technology, the 3-Business Day Cancellation Policy will remain in effect; registrants for these events will be notified of this policy via email communication. If you are no longer able to attend an event that you are registered for, please send an email to events@greaterkwchamber.com as soon as possible.

As published on the Region of Waterloo Public Health site, symptoms of the COVID-19 Coronavirus can range from mild – like the flu and other common respiratory infections – to severe, and can include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. If you are unwell, we encourage you to stay home to recover.

COVID-19 Coronavirus Chamber Update

03/05/2020

As COVID-19 Coronavirus continues to spread globally, including the first confirmed case in Waterloo Region, commerce and communities are being impacted. Your Greater KW Chamber of Commerce is monitoring the situation and wants to provide you with useful tools and resources for your business.

Our team has compiled resources to help prepare your business and ensure that your employees remain safe. Resources below include a Business Pandemic Preparedness Checklist, Business Continuity Guide, and a Crisis Communication Plan.

For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19:

Resources for your Business:

Region of Waterloo Public Health recommends taking the following actions to avoid the continuous spread of germs and viruses:

Wash your hands often with warm water and soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid contact with people who are sick.
Stay home when you are sick.
Sneeze and cough into your sleeve
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

We will continue to update this page with additional resources and templates as they relate to the business community when they become available. Connect with us on social media to ensure you are aware of the latest updates.

COVID-19 Coronavirus Chamber Update

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GKWCC Event update

Currently, we encourage all event attendees to:

Temporary Change to the GKWCC Refund Policy

COVID-19 Coronavirus Chamber Update

For the most up-to-date information about COVID-19:

Resources for your Business:

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