BusinessTO News is a weekly newsletter focused on resources to help Toronto businesses mitigate the impact of COVID-19. For a full list of resources, visit toronto.ca/covid19.
Announcements
CaféTO registration window opens February 26
For local restaurant operators interested in an expanded curb lane or sidewalk café as part of CaféTO, the first registration window will open on February 26 at 9 a.m. and will remain open until March 26. To register for CaféTO, a 2021 CaféTO certificate of insurance is required. Sign up for the free webinar on March 2 at 9:30 a.m. to learn more about CaféTO.
Ontario expands eligibility for Main Street Relief Grant
The Ontario government is expanding the number of small businesses that can apply for the Main Street Relief Grant to help offset the costs of purchasing personal protective equipment to cautiously and gradually reopen in parts of the province. Small businesses with two to 19 employees (expanded from two to nine employees) in all eligible sectors, including those in the arts, entertainment and recreation sector, can now apply for up to $1,000 in financial support.
Free ToGoToronto.com listing for restaurants
Restaurant operators are encouraged to add their restaurant to Destination Toronto’s ToGoToronto.com, a free listing of more than 700 Toronto restaurants that are open for safe takeout, delivery and patios as public health restrictions allow. The platform was created by Destination Toronto in partnership with the City to continue to support the economic recovery of the restaurant community.
Business Community News
Join Collision 2021 online from April 20 to 22
Join 40,000 CEOs, startups, investors, journalists, decision-makers and more at North America’s fastest-growing tech conference Collision. The event tickets are now available online. Women in tech get 80 per cent off the ticket price as part of the women in tech program.
Sign up for LocalLicious with SaveHospitality.ca
Taking place from February 25 to March 7, LocalLicious will highlight a range of creative three-course menus from restaurants across Ontario. Learn more about the program and sign up online.
Digital Main Street tools to help your business
Digital Main Street has compiled a list of tools, how-to guides and tutorials available to help main street businesses embrace digital technology. Find information on how to build an online presence, using social media effectively, paid advertising and much more.
Call for projects – design response to COVID-19
The Design Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC) seeks to promote design-led innovation and interventions, and share projects to encourage others in the community, in business and in government to actively engage designers in recovery efforts. Short-listed projects will be featured each month through social media and on the DIAC website. To share your project or project ideas, please complete the Call for Projects submission form.
Webinars and Online Events
Guidelines for Mandatory Mask Usage in Enclosed Public Places (Free) Watch On Demand
Ontario Small Business Support Grant Webinar (Free) Watch on Demand
How to Successfully Apply for Government Funding (Free) Watch on Demand
Ask the Expert: Marketing and Sales (Free)
Friday, February 19, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Register
The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) – Information Webinar
Wednesdays at 2 p.m. – Email tap@bot.com to register.
Ontario Small Business Support Grant – Information Webinar (Free)
Thursday, February 25, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. – Register
Lower Water Costs For Business – Partners in Project Green (Free)
Thursday, February 25, 1 to 2 p.m. – Register
General Small Business Tax Literacy Seminar (Free)
Friday, February 26, 9:30 a.m. to noon – Register
CaféTO Registration Information
Tuesday, March 2, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. – Register (Free)
Ask the Expert: Legal Advice for Business (Free)
Friday, March 5, 9 a.m. to noon – Register
BusinessTO Support Centre: One-on-one virtual support to help businesses complete government assistance applications, navigate reopening guidelines and more
CurbTO: Provides temporary curbside parking pick-up zones for main street businesses
Digital Main Street: Provides support for businesses interested in adopting technologies to help their businesses
DonateTO: Make a difference in your community by donating or partnering with the City of Toronto
