B.C. businesses able to apply for grant to offset latest COVID-19 shutdown costs

VANCOUVER — New one-time grants are on the way for businesses in British Columbia that were forced to shut down by COVID-19 restrictions.

Ravi Kahlon, the minister of jobs, economic recovery and innovation, says affected businesses, such as bars, fitness centres and event venues, will be able to apply for a grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.

He says the COVID-19 Closure Relief Grant will follow a formula similar to the government’s Circuit Breaker grant in March.

Businesses will be able to apply in January with applications accepted until the end of February.