COVID-19 and the western Canadian economy
The COVID-19 pandemic has created economic challenges around the world, with real consequences in the lives of Canadian families and businesses. The Government of Canada is monitoring the impact of the outbreak closely, and is taking action to support employers and workers. Please see the details of Canada’s whole of government measures. Also, specific advice and assistance for entrepreneurs is available.
For 35 years, Western Economic Diversification Canada has worked as a trusted partner with western small- and medium-sized enterprises, and now WD is assisting to mitigate challenges brought on by the virus. WD is one of the Regional Development Agencies tasked to keep Canada’s economy stable. The pamphlet below describes the approach WD is taking with RDAs to support businesses through difficult times.
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Q&A: WD COVID-19 support for businesses
Canada's RDAs are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation and the impact it could have on your businesses, your workers, as well as the broader economy. RDAs are a front line for economic development in Canada and help to address key economic challenges by providing regionally tailored programs, services, knowledge and expertise.
My organization received funding from WD to organize/participate in a trade mission that has since been cancelled. What should I do if I have incurred costs related to my participation?
The Government of Canada understands the impacts and restrictions resulting from COVID-19 are affecting Canadians in different ways. WD is ready to help. Contact us so we can assess your situation, provide advice on potential funding options, and work with you to find solutions.
My business has been negatively impacted by the economic shift caused by COVID-19, and I am concerned about meeting my obligations under my contribution agreement. What should I do?
WD is closely monitoring COVID-19 developments and the potential impact it could have on western Canadian businesses and the region's economy. Contact us so we can assess your situation, provide advice on potential funding options, and work with you to find solutions.
My organization received funding from WD to host an event that we have been forced to postpone because of COVID-19 prevention measures. What should I do?
WD is here to help. Let us work with you to assess your situation, provide advice on potential funding options, and help you find solutions.
I recently submitted a project application and would like to know how long the process should take. In light of the recent COVID-19 situation, will WD continue to process applications?
The Government of Canada continues to serve Canadians. WD will continue to process all applications and keep our clients up to date on information related to their project applications. We encourage you to reach out to your nearest WD office, and visit our website for more information.
Pamphlet: Canada's Regional Development Agencies
Canada's Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) are the front line for economic development in Canada and help to address key economic challenges by providing regionally tailored programs, services, knowledge and expertise.
RDAs are closely monitoring the COVID-19 global challenge and the potential impact it could have on your business and your workers, as well as the broader economy.
If you are a tourism operator or small- or medium- sized business or organization and have received RDA funding and COVID-19 is affecting your operations, you are encouraged to contact your local RDA office. Your local RDA office can review your situation and provide guidance.
- You may be eligible to receive additional funding and/or flexible arrangements.
- Further support will be determined on a case-by-case basis as the situation evolves.
If you are a tourism operator or small- or medium- sized business or organization impacted by the sudden shifts in the economy and need pressing assistance, the RDAs could assist you with:
- Access to federal funding to help you stay in business.
- Advice and pathfinding services to other federal programs and services available.
We are taking action
The Government of Canada is taking action to support tourism and other businesses and workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You can take advantage of new investments and initiatives such as:
- Enhancements to the Work-Sharing program to help support employers and their workers who are experiencing a downturn in business due to COVID-19.
- Waiving the mandatory one-week waiting period for Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.
- Income support for those who are not eligible for EI sickness benefits is also being explored.
For more information on additional government support available to your business and workers, please contact Service Canada at 1-800-OCanada (1-800-622-6232).
Visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website for the latest information.
Canada's Regional Development Agencies
Western Economic Diversification Canada
1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
1-800-561-7862
FedNor
1-877-333-6673
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
1-855-897-2667
FedDevOntario
1-866-593-5505
Canadian Economic Development for Quebec Regions
1-866-385-6412
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