The strength and resilience of Saskatchewan has been on display like never before in the past year. Just as we have all been helping our neighbours by supporting local businesses, the Government of Saskatchewan has also been supporting those businesses and protecting the jobs that they have created through a number of programs.
“If you are one such employer, I would encourage you to apply for one or more of these support programs as many of the application deadlines are approaching soon,” said Terry Dennis, Canora-Pelly MLA.
The Saskatchewan Small Business Emergency Payment (SSBEP) has now been extended for February and March. Eligible businesses, like retail stores or restaurants, who have been ordered to temporarily close or scale-back operations through a public health order, could receive up to $5,000 per month that can be used for any purpose. The application deadline is April 30.
The Strong Recovery Adaptation Rebate (SRAR) reimburses eligible small businesses for investments made to adapt their business to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial assistance includes a payment of up to $5,000 for 50 per cent of total eligible business-adaptation investments made by the applicant prior to February 28. Eligible expenditures include establishing physical barriers or reconfiguring space to operate safely, providing services through digital tools, and shifting to delivery or curbside services, including third party delivery fees. The application deadline for the SRAR is March 31.
The Re-Open Saskatchewan Training Subsidy (RSTS) is also available until March 31. This temporary training subsidy provides businesses with financial support to train employees as they adjust to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The RSTS reimburses eligible private-sector employers 100 per cent of employee training costs up to a maximum of $10,000 per business.
“We have also announced a second offering of the Saskatchewan Tourism Sector Support Program (STSSP) for eligible tourism businesses in the accommodations, attraction and tours, events, and major event facility sectors that have seen a 30 per cent drop in revenue as a result of the pandemic. Applications will be available March 8 and the deadline to apply is April 30.
For more information on all of the provincial and federal government supports available, please contact my office, the Business Response Team at 1-844-800-8688 or visit www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-businesses,” concluded Dennis.
