After announcing several measures to help Canadian businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still some falling through the cracks.
So, the prime minister announced more programs Friday.
Heritage Canada will distribute $500 million in funding to help the arts, culture and sports sectors. Those businesses do not qualify for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy because of how they operate or how they generate revenue, and the new funding will help them pay staff and get financing.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also announced $962 million for small businesses. The funding will be sent to regional development agencies and the community futures network.
"This funding will help ensure that more businesses, especially smaller businesses based in more rural parts of the country or those that don't have a relationship with a traditional financial institution, are getting the support that they need," said Trudeau.
Another $270 million is set aside to help entrepreneurs that do not qualify for the wage subsidy. That funding will go to Futurepreneur and Industrial Research Assistance Program.
Trudeau also said $7.5 million payments had been paid out through the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.
