Small businesses that have been forced to adapt because of COVID-19 may soon be eligible for a rebate from the provincial government.
The Government of Saskatchewan has announced the new Strong Recovery Adaptation Rebate (SRAR). It is meant to assist businesses as they adapt their business models to address the challenges caused by the pandemic.
“Our government continues to stand with our small business community as we work toward economic recovery, and this program is one more tool to help small businesses navigate the challenging situation we currently face,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said in a press release.
“Small businesses are continuing to do their part by not only protecting public health, but also helping to ensure a strong economic recovery in both the weeks and months ahead, and in the longer term as well.”
The rebate will assist businesses that have adapted to different business models. This includes changing the use of square footage, installing physical infrastructure to comply with COVID-19 mitigation guidelines, and upgrading technology.
The program is for Saskatchewan businesses that employ less than 100 people, have or will incur expenses to adapt their business model between April 1, 2020, and February 28, 2021, plan to continue operating, and have experienced at least a 30 per cent revenue decline compared to 2019.
Eligible applicants will receive a rebate of 50 per cent up to a maximum of $5,000 for a $10,000 expenditure.
Applications will be available in the coming weeks. For more information, visit www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19-businesses.
