The Kanata North Business Association is looking to provide small business owners in Canada’s largest technology park with immediate cash flow to assist them in gaining the digital tools they need to remain operational during the COVID-19 crisis.
The local business organization recently launched a $200,000 fund that will see non-repayable $2,500 grants provided to qualifying commercial tenants in the Kanata North tech park. The money is to subsidize the cost of tools, website fees, online payment processing fees and internal resources used to establish a digital presence for their businesses.
“As the voice of Canada’s largest technology park, the Kanata North Business Association is well-positioned to support small business owners as they make an effective digital transition in order to remain resilient through these challenging times,” said Jamie Petten, the president and executive director of the Kanata North Business Association.
The KNBA recognizes the fund will not be a cure-all solution to the economic challenges brought on by COVID-19 and that the sum will be only a portion of what business owners require if it’s not matched by other sources of funding and relief. However, the business organization hopes other members of the community with the capacity to help will join the effort.
Some businesses say the support they’ve received from the KNBA is already paying off.
“Jamie and the Kanata North BA team have encouraged our small business to think outside the box,” says Inner Revolution Yoga founder Brenna Wyman. “Helping Inner Revolution Yoga Studio move online through sharing, funding and collaborations has been a great support.”
Applications will be accepted until Monday, May 18, with funds disbursed within two weeks. Qualifying companies can apply at: https://www.serioustechliveshere.com/apply