Battlefords Chamber of Commerce welcomes provincial support (file photo/battlefordsNOW staff)

By Keaton Brown

supporting local business

Provincial government supports businesses during COVID-19

Apr 17, 2020 | 3:00 PM

Business across the province who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic will soon be receiving economic support from the provincial government.

This week, the province began accepting applications for the Small Business Emergency Payment. The program that aims to provide support to business in the province with less than 500 employees who have been forced to shut their doors or curtail their operations due to COVID-19.

Battlefords Chamber of Commerce Chief Operating Officer Linda Machniak said she was pleased to see the provincial government was trying be as inclusive as possible with the new program.

“The government certainly seems to be trying to ensure that as few people fall through the cracks as possible,” she said.

Machniak said last week the government was seeking the advice from local chambers to help identify any people or businesses that would have been excluded from their programs.

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“That was exactly what they wanted to hear from us is what businesses if any are falling through the cracks and who isn’t qualifying for whatever program,” she said.

In total, the provincial government has set aside $50 million for those who meet the requirements with a maximum amount any business is eligible for is up to $5,000.

Machniak said they have been busy all week fielding calls from businesses and consumers who are trying to find out what they qualify for.

“It’s qualifications. Does this mean I can do this or does this mean that I can get that? We have had lots of people calling just asking questions. If we’re able to help them we will and if not we will find them their answer,” she said. “Even for us, we are left with our heads spinning a bit because there is so much and so many programs,” she added.

Machniak appreciates the provincial government is moving to support business in the province and realizes while the program may not be perfect, they’re working with Saskatchewan businesses best interest at heart.

“Will there be any mistakes? Probably. While that is not perfect I think they are trying to do the best good for the most people.”

—

Keaton.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsnow