The Support the Bruce: Business Sustainability Fund has made $200,000 available to help entrepreneurs expand, enhance, or adapt an existing business in Bruce County in 2020.
Warden Mitch Twolan said the local business community has experienced significant financial losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it has also shown tremendous strength and adaptability.
"Bruce County Council is pleased to keep that momentum going and support local entrepreneurs as they recover and rebuild," said Twolan.
Grants of $5,000 are available per applicant.
On May 12, Bruce County Council endorsed a $1.75 million investment in grants and loans to support local businesses over the next two years.
Bruce County business owners looking to enhance their current operations are eligible for the new Business Pivot / Adaptation Grant, which can be used to create a new business opportunity, pivot service delivery models, or support e-commerce solutions, among other eligible expenses.
“The work of Bruce County’s Economic Task Force - set up to understand and mitigate the impacts on COVID-19 on the local economy - has highlighted the need for financial assistance in the business community,” says Kara Van Myall, Bruce County Director of Planning & Development, Recovery Coordinator. “Council’s support has allowed staff to move quickly, getting funds in the hands of business owners now – to adapt when it is most needed.”
The Business Pivot / Adaptation Grant is delivered through the Starter Company Plus initiative, funded in part by the Province on Ontario, which allows granting to businesses as part of the delivery of services of a Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC). Bruce County took on the role of SBEC service delivery in 2016.
Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis until all the funding has been distributed beginning June 18. For more information or to apply, visit brucecounty.on.ca/business/grants.
