The province is extending their small business support program for another month.
The Saskatchewan Small Business Emergency Payment program originally launched in April 2020 and was renewed in December. Now, businesses will be eligible for another payment in January.
Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison says small and medium-sized businesses continue to face challenges in the pandemic.
“Our government believes support for businesses is vital, and the extension of this program for the month of January 2021, as well as the other programs available, will help as we continue to move through this challenging period and toward economic recovery.”
Applicants will be eligible for up to $5,000 a month in funding and those who have already applied in December will not have to re-apply for January. The province notes businesses will be contacted to confirm they are still eligible for the January payment.
Over $5.9 million has been given out to over 1,500 applicants through the program. Applications for the December and January payment will be accepted until March 2.
The province also says the Strong Recovery Adaptation Rebate (SRAR) program is still open with applications due by March 31. SRAR reimburses eligible small businesses for investments made to adapt to operating during the pandemic with payments of up to $5,000 for 50 per cent of total eligible investments made before February 28, 2021. These include installing barriers, reconfiguring space, setting up digital services and shifting to delivery or curb-side pick up.
There is also the Re-Open Saskatchewan Training Subsidy which has been extended to March 31. The program reimburses businesses for training costs for employees adjusting their activities due to the pandemic. Businesses are eligible for 100 per cent of training costs up to a maximum of $10,000.
Businesses that have been fined for non-compliance with public health orders are not eligible for support under these programs.