Hello all,

As the questions continue to roll in for me, I have summarized what I know about the various government support programs into the infographic below.

Alternatively, THIS DOCUMENT does a deep dive into each and every program for individuals, businesses, and through the Provincial and Federal levels of government. It is a very handy resource that I continue to post as I get an updated version on a daily basis.

Below you will see an update from M.P. Schmale on the Wage Subsidy Program, including the process for employers as it currently stands.

The Canadian Chamber has also provided an update about the Business Credit Availability Program , followed by messages from our members, The Highlander, The Haliburton Echo and Minden Times, and Molly's Bistro. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has also provided us with a recording of their call with the Chamber network and the Minister of Labour.

As I have mentioned, feel free to send me an email that describes how this has impacted your business.

I will close by wishing you and your loved ones all the best, I hope to talk with you soon.

Jennifer M. Locke
Executive Director
Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce
Update from M.P. Schmale on the 75% Wage Subsidy

The government has announced an up to 75 per cent wage subsidy for qualifying businesses, for up to 3 months, retroactive to March 15, 2020. This will help businesses to keep and return workers to the payroll.


Here is the information as we have been made aware, as of today’s date, we are awaiting further detail:

  • You do not need to apply for the wage subsidy.

  • Once you have calculated your subsidy, you can reduce your current payroll remittance of federal, provincial, or territorial income tax that you send to the CRA by the amount of the subsidy.

  • You can start reducing payroll remittances of federal, provincial, or territorial income tax in the first remittance period that includes remuneration paid from March 18, 2020 to June 19, 2020. For example, if you are a regular remitter, you can reduce your payroll remittance that is due to the CRA on April 15, 2020.
The Business Credit Availability Program
Up to $40,000, interest-free for the first year

The Government of Canada enabled Export Development Canada (EDC) to provide emergency liquidity for micro-, small- and medium-sized domestic companies:

  • Through the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP), EDC will guarantee new operating credit and cash-flow term loans up to $6.25 million. The program cap for this guarantee will be a total of $20 billion for export sector and domestic companies. 
  • Businesses can access loans of up to $40,000 to cover non-deferrable costs such as payroll, rent, insurance and utilities, under the Canada Emergency Business Account. 

Here is the government of Canada's page on the business credit availability program, which includes the following note on the program:

" If you are interested in exploring financing opportunities for your business through the BCAP, please contact your financial institution directly and it will contact BDC and EDC where appropriate..."

We held two technical briefings over the past week with government officials to discuss how they can help SMEs through this crisis. If you were unable to attend, you can still access the recordings.



We're hosting a third technical briefing this Friday to discuss access to capital.

Molly's Bistro Bakery is delivering the BEST to Minden!

If you are self-isolating and are missing Molly's amazing meat pies, lasagna, quiche, soups, chili, and desserts then stress no more! 

We will deliver right to your door! We love to cook & bake from scratch so you don't have to.

A terrific Easter turkey dinner with all the fixings! 

With this COVID-19 mess you might have been in lock down with the same people for weeks...you deserve a break this Easter!

We are offering 2 choices: Serves 6-8 people ONLY $160.00 OR 2-4 people ONLY $90 

This Easter, let Molly`s Bistro Bakery cook for you....from scratch! 

For more info go to www.MollysBistroBakery.ca
Have you leveraged your Chamber's Plan Benefits Add-Ons Yet?

Whether it's a question related to travel insurance or if you were looking for HR advice about an employee, there are resources available to all Chamber's Plan members.

Please see this link about the free services that are available to you and your employees through the Chamber's Plan.

Give the team at K. Brewer Financial a call with any questions, they are here to help!
Hear from The Minister of Labour

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce hosted a call with its Chamber network today with Honourable Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour.

The following is the recording of the call should you find it valuable:

This is a paid advertisement mailing forwarded through the "My Chamber" Special Promotions Email Blast Program. The Haliburton Highlands Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to refuse advertising due to content, quality, or if it is in direct conflict with the Chamber's mission or services. Advertisements must promote the member business. Advertisers must be Chamber members in good standing when the ad is purchased and when the ad publishes.