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,Ā visit toronto.ca/covid19.
Announcements
Provincial stay-at-home order
A third provincial emergency has been announced in Ontario in response to the rapid increase in COVID-19 transmission. The Province has strengthened public health measuresfor non-essential retailers limiting the majority of non-essential retailers to only operate for curbside pick-up and delivery at this time.Ā A reminder that the City offers one-on-one virtual support to help small business owners through the BusinssTO Support Centre.
Free, no obligation, support for Toronto businesses to reduce energy costs
The City of Toronto’s Navigation Support Services program offers buildings and businesses support to reduce energy costs. Experienced City staff can provide guidance on how to better control energy costs in light of fluctuating business activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and also help apply options for energy retrofit projects. To learn more or participate, please email bbp@toronto.ca.
Spring Cleanup
The City of Toronto has begun its annual spring cleanup efforts across the city. Hundreds of City staff, with appropriate health and safety protocols in place, will be out cleaning BIA areas, parks, roads, sidewalks and other public spaces. Local business owners can report litter hotspots on City property and illegal dumping on private property by submitting a service request at toronto.ca/311. To report illegal dumping on City property, including parks and in the right of way, please call 311.
Business Community News
Marketing and technology help for businesses
Digital Main Streetās Digital Service Squad is available to help! Book a free consultation with tech and marketing experts and receive free one-on-oneĀ support to help your business with digital transformation. Learn more at digitalmainstreet.ca/toronto.
Toronto gets vaccinated!
Toronto residents over the age of 60 (born in 1961 or earlier) are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine at one of the City-run immunization clinics. Those age 50 and older who live in high-risk areas as identified by postal code are also able to book vaccine appointments at City-run clinics. Sign up, or assist a loved one with registering, by calling 1-888-999-6488 or visitingĀ toronto.ca/COVID-19.
The Collision Conference is next week
Join 40,000 people from around the world from April 20 to 22 to watch the biggest names in tech, marketing, finance and more at the Collision Conference.Ā Get your tickets now.
Webinars and Online Events
WSIB Laws and Regulations for Small BusinessĀ (Free)
April 14, 9:30 to 11 a.m. ā Register
Ask the Expert: Marketing andĀ Sales (Free)
April 16, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ā Register
B Corp 101 Workshop: Learning to Measure What Matters (Free)
April 20, 10 a.m. to noon ā Register
General Small Business Tax Literacy SeminarĀ (Free)
April 23, 9:30 a.m. to noon ā Register
Scarborough Business Association Event –Ā Federal Budget BreakfastĀ (Free)
April 24, 10:10Ā to 11:30 a.m. ā Register
Web Presence 101: Ensuring Your Foundation is set
April 27, 10 to 11:30 a.m. ā Register (Free)
Guidelines for Mandatory Mask Usage in Enclosed Public Places (Free) Watch On Demand
Ontario Small Business Support Grant WebinarĀ (Free) Watch on Demand
How to Successfully Apply for Government FundingĀ (Free) Watch on Demand