BusinessTO News is a weekly newsletter that focuses on available resources and supports to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on Toronto businesses. Learn about the current health situation, service changes, as well as resources to support reopening and economic support atΒ toronto.ca/covid19.
Announcements
Property tax and energy cost rebates available for businesses affected by COVID-19 public health measures
The Ontario government is supporting businesses affected by COVID-19 public health measures by providing property tax and energy cost rebates. The rebates will cover the period of time that businesses are required to temporarily close or significantly restrict services as a result of being located in areas such as Toronto that have been subject to modified Stage 2 public health restrictions. Application forms will be available for eligible businesses on November 16. See Get help with COVID-19 costs web page for more information.
City of Toronto seeking land and buildings for new affordable homes
The City of Toronto is actively seeking to identify partners, sites and properties that may be suitable to support the goal of creating up to 40,000 affordable rental homes over the next 10 years. To build upon the City’s existing list of properties that are appropriate for building modular housing and conversion to housing, the City is inviting government, private, institutional, non-profit, co-op, charity and multi-faith organizations and other landlords to partner with the City in identifying vacant sites that could be activated. Get more detailsincluding additional criteria and how to submit proposals. Submission deadline is November 16 at 4 p.m.
Business Community News
Ontario Chamber of Commerce seeks business input with survey
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce launched its annual survey and is seeking feedback. The three-minute survey is an opportunity for businesses to provide input on the impact of government support programs, the overall state of Ontarioβs economy, and more. Complete the survey by December 9.
Restaurants invited to participate in ToGoToronto for free
Destination Toronto’s website, ToGoToronto.com, continues to support the economic recovery of the restaurant community β listing nearly 700 Toronto restaurants that are open for safe takeout or delivery. Add your restaurant to the platform for free today.
Partnerships supporting the community
As part of its response to COVID-19, and to ensure that residents in Scarborough have access to food, the City of Toronto partnered with GlobalMedic and the University of Toronto Scarborough to launch and help run the CARES program (Collective Action in Response for Everyone in Scarborough). Since May, the initiative has secured 170,000 pounds of food and more than 14,000 hygiene kits for City agencies and community organizations to distribute to Scarborough residents in need. The program is an example of how partnerships among public and private sectors and government contribute to the delivery of much-needed community services. Learn how you can help at toronto.ca/donate.
Webinars and Online Events
Site Design and Planning for a New Era of Live Events (Free) Watch On Demand
Guidelines for Mandatory Mask Usage in Enclosed Public Places (Free) Watch On Demand
Ask an Accountant – Applying for Government COVID-19 Support Programs (Free) Watch On Demand
Business AdviceTO – Cleantech North: Resilience and Recovery
Thursday, November 19, 4 – 5 p.m. Register
