Yukon businesses to receive relief funding

Yukon businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic will receive funding from the Government of Yukon to cover fixed business costs, including rent, utilities and business insurance.

The Yukon Business Relief Program will help Yukon businesses that have experienced a 30 per cent reduction in revenue and require immediate relief. Eligible businesses can apply for a grant of up to $30,000 per month to cover fixed costs from March 23 to May 22, 2020.

The program is in line with the recommendation from the recently established Business Advisory Council.

The Government of Yukon is working with industry organizations and the local business community to support Yukon businesses and workers impacted by COVID-19. The Government of Yukon continues to work with the Government of Canada to assess economic impacts and support our economy.

This program is the latest Government of Yukon initiative to support Yukon’s business sector and is anticipated to cost up to $10 million. This brings the government’s economic supports to as much as $21.7 million. Other supports include the Paid Sick Leave Program, the Temporary Support for Events Funding Program as well as changes to the Yukon Nominee Program previously announced.

 

Yukon businesses need support to manage through this difficult time. The measures necessary to protect the health and safety of Yukoners in response to COVID-19 are having a significant impact on Yukon’s businesses. This funding provides needed relief to businesses experiencing hardship and enhance their ability to rebound in the future. This is one more way our government can support local businesses as they are truly the backbone of our economy.

Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai

Quick facts 
  • Eligible fixed costs include: commercial rent or lease; water, sewage and waste disposal; electricity and heating fuel; telephone, cable, internet and satellite; software, data services, and subscriptions; business insurance; and pest control.

  • Yukon businesses can contact the Department of Economic Development to start an application:

    • Email: ecdev@gov.yk.ca
    • Phone: 867-456-3803
    • Toll-free: 1-800-661-0408, extension 3803
  • Applications will be accepted until June 1, 2020.

Media contact 

Sunny Patch
Deputy Chief of Staff
867-393-7478
sunny.patch@gov.yk.ca

Jason Seaton
Communications, Economic Development
867-667-5907
jason.seaton@gov.yk.ca

News release #: 
20-099