Canada Emergency Response Benefit Program

Earlier today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that more funding to support Canadian small business owners has been approved.

This funding will come in under the Canada Emergency Response Benefit Program.

While the announcement has been made, according to the Prime Minister, this will not be administered as of yet as it is being worked on by all responsible parties to ensure that self-employed Canadians can get the Emergency Response Benefit as soon as possible.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH GRANTS & LOANS

Name

Name is required

Email

Invalid email address

Phone Number

Phone number is required

Learn More

Learn about the funding available for your small business. It just takes a second!

The deadline as announced today will most likely be April 6th, at which point small business owners and self-employed individuals will be able to apply.

The Canada Emergency Response Benefit Program will provide funding of $2,000 per month for up to 4 months (total $8,000) for those affected by the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic and in regard to losing jobs, contracts, and small business income.

The emergency response program is government funding introduced today by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in addition to the 10% wage subsidy and the EI programs.

How to Apply for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit Program

As of today, Justin Trudeau has not announced how applications will be accepted, as they are working on a portal that will allow applications.

This is expected to be launched on April 6th, 2026.

Ongoing Small Business Government Funding Support

Ongoing, pre-pandemic, the Canadian government has hundreds of available funding programs from various agencies across all levels of government (local, provincial, and federal).

These programs are often in the form of government grants, government loans, tax breaks, and tax credits.

The funds available can help with the following:

• Hiring and training of staff
• Marketing and advertising costs
• Paying for the purchase of tools, supplies, inventory, and equipment
• Leasehold improvement costs
• Cash flow improvements
• R&D costs
• etc.

To apply for these funds, certain things are required, such as a business plan, which Canada Startups can help with.