Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission Responds to Business Concerns of COVID-19

The Okanagan business community has proven resilient in the face of fires and floods in recent Local Love Bingo Okanagan years. We are facing a new challenge with the spread of COVID-19.  In an effort to keep the public and business community informed on the economy of the region, during this unprecedented time The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s Economic Development Commission has compiled the below resource links. We know that our local businesses and community members are working to stay updated to make informed decisions that are best for their customers, employees, communities and businesses.

We continue to stress the importance of following health information sources directly for the most recent information:  Public Health Agency of CanadaBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control and Interior Health Authority.

Additionally The Province of British Columbia has established a non-emergency and non-health related hotline, which can be reached by calling 1-888-COVID19 or 1-888-268-4319, and will be staffed from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day with information available in more than 110 languages.  811 remains the hotline for British Columbians to call to reach health professionals.

Our team is available to support all inquiries and we’ll continue to navigate this together.

Federal Government Measures

The Government of Canada has launched a Resource Hub for Canadian Businesses that address four key considerations for businesses during this time: supporting employees, financial implications and business preparedness, business travel and events, and doing business in international markets.

Financial

BDC

For small or medium- sized business organization affected by the sudden shifts in the economy and need pressing assistance:

Western Economic Diversification Canada

1-888-338-WEST (9378)

For small or medium- sized business organization affected by the sudden shifts in the economy and need pressing assistance:

  • Access to federal funding to help you stay in business
  • Advice and pathfinding services to other federal programs and services available

Export Development Canada (EDC)

In partnership with the federal government and Canadian banks, EDC will ensure customers impacted by COVID-19 have access to credit.