Dear Members,

This evening, Tuesday, March 17th, the provincial government outlined further details on measures to support local businesses impacted by COVID-19, including:

  • Emergency Income Relief for the self-employed, which will provide a $500 per week lump sum for self-employed Islanders, delivered through Innovation PEI. Islanders can learn more through Innovation PEI’s website starting tomorrow, March 18th.
  • Emergency Working Capital Financing, which will provide support for small businesses through a capital loan of up to $100,000 with a fixed interest rate of 4% per annum, principal and interest payments deferred for a minimum of 12 months, and no application fee. Islanders can learn more through Finance PEI’s webpage starting tomorrow, March 18th.
  • Added capacity to the provincial government’s 1-866-222-1751 line for businesses.
  • Maritime Electric, in consultation with the provincial government will be suspending disconnection for non-payment for the next 14-days for customers.
  • A provincial COVID-19 Facts for Employers webpage

As your Chamber, we continue to advocate on your behalf to government officials. Today, we spoke with the Mayor of Charlottetown, Philip Brown and relayed the concerns we continue to hear about the health and safety of your employees, clients, and customers and the overall impact on your business operations through these uncertain times.

As always, we are here for you and ask that you continue to share any questions you may have or challenges you’re facing.

Sincerely,

Dawn Binns, President 
Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce