By Canadian Press

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

Dec 23, 2021 | 11:10 AM

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.

Kahlon says the grant can be used to pay for expenses, such as employee wages, rent or utilities.

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Kahlon says he understands businesses want to the money right away, but the grant will take time to administer and the government will work as fast as possible to help.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 23, 2021.

The Canadian Press