The Government of Canada has announced a $500,000 grant program for local tourism-based businesses. The funding will is set to be distributed to local businesses that installed health and safety measures and processes related to the COVID-19 pandemic this summer.

On Thursday Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (FedDev Ontario), on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, along with Neil Ellis, Member of Parliament for Bay of Quinte, announced a FedDev Ontario non-repayable investment of $500,000 to support Prince Edward County’s tourism industry.

“Prince Edward County’s tourism industry is essential to the region’s vitality. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the area to sample what it has to offer. From local wineries, craft breweries and unique culinary offerings to some of Canada’s best freshwater beaches, tourism supports the local economy and creates jobs,” Young said. “The COVID-19 pandemic has had an immense economic impact on businesses across Canada, particularly those that rely on travel and tourism. As the economy reopens, the Government of Canada continues to support the recovery and growth of this vital industry.”

With this support, The County of Prince Edward in partnership with the local Chamber of Commerce, will provide non-repayable contributions of up to $20,000 to local tourism-oriented businesses. 

The funds will support costs associated with recovery and reopening for business, including acquiring personal protective equipment, renovating to accommodate social distancing and implementing new safety protocols. The project is expected to support 50 businesses and maintain at least 100 jobs. Applications for this funding are now open. For more information or to apply, visit the Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce’s website.

“The PEC Chamber is here to represent business and be an integral resource for businesspeople, and that is why we are pleased to be facilitating these new funds that will help support the ongoing needs of our business community,” said. Lesley Lavender, Executive Director, Prince Edward County Chamber of Commerce “So many have had to pivot to safeguard workers, protect customers and the flow of our economy. We applaud you and know this is a small step to your recovery.”

Mayor Steve Ferguson added the added costs of doing business during the pandemic in a tourism hot bed like Prince Edward County was a significant  and sudden expenditure.

“We are thrilled to see that this funding will support businesses as they purchase personal protective equipment and implement new physical distancing and safety protocols. These have been challenging and uncertain times to say the least and we are grateful that the Government of Canada is supporting the efforts of Prince Edward County businesses to keep the community and visitors safe and healthy,” said Ferguson.