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Re-opening and Recovery Information for Businesses in Cambridge
The INVEST Cambridge team remains available to assist with all of your business questions while our office is closed to the public. We will update this page with business related supports, programs and resources directed towards recovery to ensure local businesses receive timely information during this difficult time.
Our staff can be reached by email at invest@cambridge.ca or by phone at 519-740-4685.
For general City-related updates, please visit www.cambridge.ca/COVID19.
On This Page
Current Status of Public Health Measures in Ontario
The following changes to public health and workplace safety measures are in effect as of March 1, 2022. For the full list of measures in effect, see O. Reg. 364/20.
- capacity limits have been lifted in all indoor public settings
- proof of vaccination requirements have been lifted
- businesses and organizations may choose to require proof of vaccination upon entry
- other protective measures, such as mask/face covering requirements and passive screening of patrons remain in place
- businesses and organizations that are open must continue to have safety plans in place.
Ontario will remove the mandatory masking requirement for most settings on March 21, with the exception of select settings such as public transit, health care settings, long-term care homes and congregate care settings.
Regional Mask By-law
At their meeting of March 16, 2022, Regional Council repealed the mask by-law requiring face coverings in enclosed public spaces, effective March 21, 2022. The by-law has been in place since July 2020.
Face coverings are still required on public transportation vehicles, bus shelter or platform at a transit platform across the region until the Province removes this requirement under the Reopening Ontario Act, anticipated to take place on April 27, 2022.
Economic Response Plan
In 2020, Cambridge City Council approved the Economic Response Plan which includes a series of measures to support local residents, businesses, and workers during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the news release Cambridge City Council approves Economic Response Plan, dated March 25, 2020. More information on the Economic Response Plan initiatives and activities are detailed in staff report 20-146(CRE) approved by Council on June 16, 2020.
In 2021, Council received an updated staff report detailing the numerous initiatives and ongoing activities that have been implemented to support local businesses and economic recovery since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Information regarding the updated Economic Response Plan may be found on the corporate website.
Patio and Outdoor Dining Permits
In response to the challenges faced by restaurant and bar owners due to COVID-19, the City of Cambridge is providing a streamlined process to accelerate approvals for new or expanded temporary outdoor private and sidewalk patios.
The streamlined Temporary Patio Program is in effect till October 31, 2022
Restaurants and bar owners need to apply for a patio permit allowing them to do business on a temporary outdoor private patio or on a City sidewalk. To apply, visit www.cambridge.ca/BusinessLicence and download the application form or apply online.
Small Business Centre
The Cambridge Small Business Centre has changed all of its seminars and consultations to online or by phone. Please connect with us for consultations at invest@cambridge.ca or by phone at 519-740-4685
Re-opening Ontario
Historical reopening information | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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If you have questions about what will be open or impacts to your business or employment, please visit the provincial public health measures and advice webpage or contact (855) 216-3090.
Recent Provincial Announcements
Friday, December 10, 2021 - Ontario Taking Action to Protect Against Omicron Variant |
Ontario’s weekly cases incidence rate is below the national average, and recent investments combined with high vaccination rates have meant hospital and intensive care unit capacity remains stable. In line with Ontario’s cautious approach throughout the pandemic and in light of evolving global evidence around the Omicron variant, the province is adjusting its COVID-19 response that will strengthen the province’s proof of vaccination requirements and enhance public health measures. This includes the following measures:
The full suite of measures is outlined in the backgrounder. |
Friday, December 17, 2021 - Ontario Further Strengthening Response to Omicron |
To further strengthen its response to Omicron and reduce opportunities for close contact as the province gets as many vaccines into arms as possible, Ontario is introducing a 50 per cent capacity limit in the following indoor public settings:
These limits do not apply to any portion of a business or place that is being used for a wedding, a funeral or a religious service, rite, or ceremony. Businesses or facilities will also need to post a sign stating the capacity limits that are permitted in the establishment. To further reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, additional protective measures are also being applied:
In addition, to mitigate COVID-19 transmission that can occur at informal social gatherings, the province is also reducing social gathering limits to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. These restrictions will come into effect on 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, December 19, 2021. |
Wednesday, December 22, 2021 - Ontario Launches New Supports for Businesses |
Through the new Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program, eligible businesses will receive rebate payments equivalent to 50 per cent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to the current capacity limits. This will provide support to businesses that are expected to be most impacted financially by the requirement to reduce capacity to 50 per cent. Examples of businesses that will be eligible for the Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program include restaurants, smaller retail stores and gyms. A full list of eligible business types will be made available through a program guide in mid-January 2022. Online applications for this program will open in mid-January 2022, with payments to eligible businesses provided retroactive to December 19, 2021. Businesses will be required to submit property tax and energy bills as part of the application process. The province is also providing additional support to help improve cash flows for Ontario businesses by providing a six-month interest- and penalty-free period to make payments for most provincially administered taxes, supporting businesses in the immediate term while capacity restrictions are in place while providing the flexibility Ontario businesses will need for long-term planning. The six-month period will begin January 1, 2022 and end July 1, 2022. Visit Ontario’s website for more information on available supports. |
Sunday, January 3, 2022 - Ontario Temporarily Moving to Modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen |
In response, the province will return to the modified version of Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen effective Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. for at least 21 days (until January 26, 2022), subject to trends in public health and health system indicators.
These measures include:
Please view the regulation for the full list of mandatory public health and workplace safety measures. |
Friday, January 7, 2022 - Ontario Providing Support for Small Business, Workers and Families |
As part of a comprehensive plan to support workers and businesses, the government is announcing an Ontario COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grant for small businesses that are subject to closure under the modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen. It will provide eligible small businesses with a grant payment of $10,000. Eligible small businesses include:
Eligible businesses that qualified for the Ontario Small Business Support Grant and that are subject to closure under modified Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen will be pre-screened to verify eligibility and will not need to apply to the new program. Newly established and newly eligible small businesses will need to apply once the application portal opens in the coming weeks. Small businesses that qualify can expect to receive their payment in February. Further, online applications for the previously-announced Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program will open on January 18. This program will provide eligible businesses that are required to close or reduce capacity with rebate payments for up to 100 per cent of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to public health measures in response to the Omicron variant. Eligible businesses required to close for indoor activities, such as restaurants and gyms, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 100 per cent of their costs. Those required to reduce capacity to 50 per cent, such as smaller retail stores, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 50 per cent of their costs. A complete list of eligible businesses will be provided prior to the launch of the application portal. |
Friday, January 20, 2022 - Ontario Outlines Steps to Cautiously and Gradually Ease Public Health Measures | ||||
Effective January 31, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. Ontario will begin the process of gradually easing restrictions, while maintaining protective measures, including but not limited to:
Enhanced proof of vaccination, and other requirements would continue to apply in existing settings. Additionally, this plan outlines further easing of public health measures on the proposed dates below (subject to change). It is important to note that to manage COVID-19 over the long-term, local and regional responses by public health units may be deployed based on local context and conditions.
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Monday, February 14, 2022 - Ontario Moving to Next Phase of Reopening on February 17, 2022 | ||
With key public health and health system indicators continuing to improve, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, is cautiously and gradually easing public health measures sooner, with the next phase of measures being eased on February 17, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. Ontario will further ease public health measures, including, but not limited to:
Capacity limits in other indoor public settings, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, retail and shopping malls, will be maintained at, or increased to, the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance. In addition, as of 8:00 a.m. on Friday, February 18, 2022, Ontario is expanding booster dose eligibility to youth aged 12 to 17. Appointments can be booked through the provincial booking system and the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre, as well as at select pharmacies administering the Pfizer vaccine. Appointments will be booked for approximately six months (168 days) after a second dose. To book an appointment online, individuals must be 12 years old at the time of appointment.
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Details regarding the next phase of reopening (February 17, 2022) | ||
As of February 17, 2022 at 12:01 a.m. the following measures will be eased subject to trends in public health and our health system. Social gatherings are permitted under the following conditions:
Organized public events are permitted under the following conditions:
Weddings, funerals, religious services, rites and ceremonies are permitted under the following conditions:
Retirement homes Retirement homes are exempt from organized public event and social gathering restrictions if the home is in compliance with the policies or guidance, if any, issued by the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority. Capacity Limits (where proof of vaccination is required)
Capacity limits in other indoor public settings, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, retail and shopping malls, will be maintained at, or increased to, the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance.
This list is not exhaustive. The government will continue to work with sectors on reopening plans, to ensure that they have full awareness of when they can begin to safely reopen and how. Please refer to O. Reg. 263/20 Rules for Areas in Step 2 for the complete list of measures and conditions that apply to certain businesses, organizations, places and individuals. |
Important Resources for Businesses as they Re-open
Resources to prevent COVID-19 in the workplace | ||||||||||||
The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce has set up a platform to assist local small businesses with ordering your free workplace self screening kits & masks. You can visit Chamber Check & follow the steps outlined. The workplace self screening kits & masks are free and available to small businesses (> 150 employees) in the Region of Waterloo. The province has developed numerous resources and information to provide sector specific guidance for keeping employees and workplaces healthy and safe. The province has also developed a guide for employers looking to develop workplace safety plans. Whether you are currently operating or planning for your workers to return to work, the guide will help you develop a plan to work safely. It will help prepare you to put controls into place to make the workplace safer for everyone. You can also view a restaurant specific guide on Updates and resources for food service operators. |
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Building considerations and water flushing | ||||||||||||
The City of Cambridge Public Works department would like to advise businesses that might be re-opening after an extended closure to flush their water lines before re-opening. Resources on how to prepare your building for re-occupancy and important steps for reopening your building water supply are available. | ||||||||||||
Personal protective equipment | ||||||||||||
If your business requires personal protective equipment (PPE), the Province of Ontario has developed a directory of Workplace PPE Suppliers. If your business is a manufacturer or supplier of PPE, you may apply to have your business listed in this directory. Listing of local businesses supplying PPE:
To have your business added to this listing, please contact our staff at invest@cambridge.ca. |
Ontario Made Program |
Ontario Made is a celebration of Ontario Manufacturing led by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters. Manufacturers are encouraged to add their Ontario Made products to the searchable website and receive a digital Ontario Made logo to promote the very best that the province has to offer. Please visit the Ontario Made website for further details on how to participate and support Ontario manufacturers. |
Business Support Links
We know these challenging times are causing concern and anxiety for many people, especially small business owners. We hope to continue to support you during this difficult period. Please see below financial resources and information.
Financial Resources for Businesses
Government of Canada |
Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan: Support for Canadians and Businesses - this plan includes:
** Please note - this is a list of the programs staff receive the most inquiries regarding. For a comprehensive list of all available programs and supports, please visit the federal economic response plan website. Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian Businesses |
Government of Ontario |
Ontario's Action Plan: Responding to COVID-19 Reopening Ontario after COVID-19 - Reopening the province will be gradual and occur in stages, allowing health officials to assess conditions prior to progressing to the next stage. Ontario Business Costs Rebate Program (applications open January 18, 2022): Eligible businesses that are required to close or reduce capacity will receive rebate payments for a portion of the property tax and energy costs they incur while subject to these measures. Eligible businesses required to reduce capacity to 50 per cent, such as smaller retail stores, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 50 per cent of their costs, while businesses required to close for indoor activities, such as restaurants and gyms, will receive a rebate payment equivalent to 100 per cent of their costs. COVID-19: Tackling the Barriers - The province has launched a portal to allow businesses to request temporary changes in rules and regulations in an effort to remove barriers that are hindering business and negatively impacting Ontario's supply chain. Businesses working to retool their operations to produce health-related products, or those that want to continue their operations in this new environment of physical distancing, can submit any potential roadblocks to the website (announced April 28, 2020) Workplace Health and Safety Resources - Ontario is releasing safety guidelines to protect workers, customers and the general public from COVID-19 as it prepares for a gradual reopening of the provincial economy. Sector guidelines contain recommendations and tips for employers on how to keep workers safe on the job. Waterloo Region entered a modified Stage 2 of the provincial framework on January 5, 2022 and in recognition of the hardships this places on certain industries, eligible businesses will be able to apply to the province for rebates on
** Please note - this is a list of the programs staff receive the most inquiries regarding. For a comprehensive list of all available programs and supports, please visit the provincial economic response plan website. |
Digital Main Street Program |
The Ontario government, in partnership with the federal government, is helping small businesses reach more customers through the Digital Main Street platform. It is a $57-million program which will help up to 22,900 Ontario businesses create and enhance their online presence and generate jobs for more than 1,400 students. Through the $57-million contribution to the Digital Main Street platform, businesses will be able to take advantage of three new programs to support their digital transformation:
For more information regarding these grants, please visit Digital Main Street. |
FedDev Ontario |
COVID-19 Collaboration Platform FedDev Economic Development Newsletter and Resources Regional Relief and Recovery Fund - Priority may be given to SMEs in the manufacturing, technology, tourism and other sectors key to the region, that are major employers in small communities or that support the government’s commitment to underrepresented groups. |
Business Development Bank of Canada |
Financial Support for Entrepreneurs Impacted by Coronavirus Business Continuity Plan and Templates for Entrepreneurs Webinar: How to cope with the impacts of COVID-19 on your business |
Business Support Information
Region of Waterloo |
The Region of Waterloo, all seven area municipalities, Waterloo EDC (Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation) the Greater K-W Chamber of Commerce, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Communitech, and local partners have created the Business and Economic Support Team of Waterloo Region (BESTWR) to help all types of local businesses cope with challenges caused by COVID-19. COVID-19 Safe Ambassador Program - The COVID-19 Safe Ambassador program is a free service from the Greater Kitchener Waterloo and Cambridge Chambers of Commerce and the Region of Waterloo to help businesses operate safely. In collaboration with NSF International, a global public health and safety organization, they are providing free education and one-on-one guidance to help small & medium sized businesses in Waterloo Region to minimize COVID-19 risks. When you participate in this program, an NSF-trained ambassador will visit your business for approximately 30-45 minutes. During their visit, the ambassador will ask a few questions, and provide educational information and one-on-one consultations to help you better understand the COVID-19 risks and requirements based on the most recent provincial operating requirements. Ambassadors are employed by NSF International and are simply ready to help! Visit the Region of Waterloo's COVID-19 Safe Ambassador Program website for further information on this beneficial program. |
Ontario Ministry of Health |
Stats and Self Assessment Tool Guidelines for Food Premises COVID-19 (released March 20, 2020) Guidelines for Personal Service Settings Covid-19 (released March 20, 2020) |
Canadian Chamber of Commerce |
Ontario Chamber of Commerce |
Canada United Small Business Relief Fund - Created by RBC, Canada United is a movement to support local businesses in communities across the country. The Canada United Small Business Relief Fund (CUSBRF) was established to help small businesses offset the costs of expenses to open safely or adopt digital technologies to move more of their business online. |
Cambridge Chamber of Commerce |
Chamber Business Ready - This project was founded through the teamwork of the BESTWR. As the Ontario government has begun easing up on some restrictions and businesses are starting to re-open, this new training platform, Chamber Business Ready, has been pre-loaded with training to keep you up to date on the Region’s guidelines. You can expect to find the latest training content such as hand hygiene for office and frontline workers, how to protect yourself from viruses, mental health resources, and tips for working from home. New content will continually be added and updated as guidelines change. |
Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo, Wellington and Dufferin |
The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin (WPB) leads local workforce development by identifying local labour market needs/trends/priorities and working with the community to develop action plans to address these issues. In response to the COVID crisis and the large increase in people looking for work, the WPB has implemented an early launch of their new local job portal - https://www.findyourjob.ca/. |
Waterloo Economic Development Corporation (Waterloo EDC) |
Waterloo EDC has developed a Recovery and reopening webinar series, reviewing topics such as: General Overview, Manufacturing Sector, Small to Medium Sized Businesses, Loan Programs, and Workforce and Labour Considerations. |
Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) |
The MLTSD has developed a number of workplace resources for businesses to help them operate safely: |
For general City-related updates, please visit www.cambridge.ca/covid19.
** Please note: these programs are constantly evolving, and staff will attempt to update this page as changes occur. The best source of information for all available government supports is each level of government's COVID-19 response plan. Please report any broken links to invest@cambridge.ca.