Issue 59 | February 15, 2022 |
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From the Desk of the CEO... |
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Yesterday, the government of Ontario announced changes to its re-opening plans, as noted below. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce again has asked for a sustainable, comprehensive, and clear plan so that businesses can adjust and plan for a safe and successful re-opening. See that statement here.
Over the past week, the Chamber has monitored and participated in discussions with our colleagues across Canada regarding the demonstrations in Ottawa, Windsor, and other communities across the country. The result is an open letter to our elected representatives to take action to resolve the blockades of critical infrastructure that have serious economic and reputational consequences. Please let us know how the border disruptions have impacted your business in our poll this week.
Additional advocacy efforts in February include a number of meetings with municipal leaders, and finalizing the details for the MP/MPP Breakfast on February 25 th. Register now!
Our Rapid Screening Program continues to be in high demand, and thank you to our friends at the Paris and District Chamber of Commerce for lending a hand preparing the kits for distribution this past week. Staff are diligently working through pre-booked appointments with our current supply, and anticipate additional resources and more appointments to follow in the coming weeks. We are also pleased to welcome our new co-op student to initially assist with the program.
The Ontario Small Business Relief Grant applications opened this week, please take advantage of this if eligible, and let us know about the process and issues or challenges you have with it so we can advance those concerns to government with the collective voice of the Chamber Network.
Stay warm, stay safe,
Dave
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Poll: The effects of the border protests on local business |
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My business is impacted by the border protests
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Our suppliers are impacted by the border protests
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I have had to reduce operating hours due to the border protests
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I have more to say and/or want the Chamber to say
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Yes - click on the red button below!
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Don't Miss It! Upcoming Chamber Events |
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We'll hear from both, MP Larry Brock and MPP Will Bouma who will speak on issues of concern to the business community of Brantford-Brant.
For those of you who would like to join us in person for breakfast, we look forward to seeing you safely at the Best Western. We are also offering a virtual option.
Slido will be available for registered ticket holders, to facilitate questions through our moderator, President Paul Bisanti.
The deadline for registration, either live or online is Tuesday, Feb. 22nd at noon.
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Annual General Meeting and Presidents' Event
March 29th, 2022
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Business After Hours - Holistic Healing Arts
April 12th, 2022
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Business Excellence Awards
May 5th, 2022
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Build Your Personal Wealth in 2022 ✅
Join our free Instagram Live series on maximizing savings, navigating the housing market, boosting your credit, and more!
Would you consider yourself a personal finance expert? If not, that’s okay — that’s where we come in!
It can be difficult to navigate what tools, services and advice can effectively grow your wealth and with terms flying around like, GIC, TFSA, APR and FSA. It’s no wonder we’re all a little overwhelmed from time to time.
Let us clear up all of your personal wealth questions.
Join us as we partner with the Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant for a free Instagram Live event, where we’ll walk through some of the top tips to build your personal wealth and take control of your finances.
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Ontario's Next Phase of Reopening |
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“Lifting COVID-19-related business restrictions sooner than initially planned is positive news for Ontario business and economic recovery. To ensure a sustainable reopening of Ontario’s economy, it is critical the Government of Ontario also has a comprehensive and clear plan so businesses can safely re-open and stay open..." |
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We look forward to seeing measures implemented so we can safely reopen and stay open.
Read the statement and list of changes here. |
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Canada Revenue Agency is Hosting a
FREE WEBINAR
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The CRA is helping individuals who provide services as a corporation (through an incorporated business) determine whether they meet the definition of a personal services business, and what that means in terms of tax obligations.
This webinar will discuss the definition of personal services business; tax deductions, rates, and eligible expenses; filing requirements, obligations, and deadlines; employer/employee relationship; requesting a ruling; and correcting tax returns.
The webinar will take place on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at 1 PM (EST). If you wish to attend, register now.
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BUSINESS RESOURCE:
Ontario Small Business Relief Grant
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The Ontario Small Business Relief Grant provides a one-time payment of $10,000 to eligible small businesses that have been required to close indoor operations as a result of the province’s modified Step 2 restrictions that came into effect on January 5, 2022.
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More Provincial and Federal COVID-19 Provide
Supports for Local Business
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PROVINCIAL:
For a full overview of programs provided by the Ontario provincial government, click here.
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FEDERAL:
For a full overview of programs provided by the Canadian Federal government, click here.
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Additional COVID-19 Resources |
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PD27 10% Temporary Wage Subsidy Self-identification Form for Employers. Click here
Support for your business from the Government of Canada. Click here to find out which supports best fit your business
Support for Individuals from the Government of Canada. Click here to find out which supports best fit your business
Business Resilience Service phoneline: call 1-866-989-1080 to connect with a business advisor from the accounting profession. The service is available 7 days/week from 8 am – 8 pm ET
Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA); This $55 billion program provides interest-free loans of up to $40,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits. Click here to apply
Develop your Workplace Safety Plan with tools from the Government of Ontario here.
For the most up-to-date provincial & federal programs, take a look at our website.
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Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant
519.753.2617
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