The B.C. Business COVID-19 Support Service website is a one-stop resource aimed at answering pressing questions about the support available to businesses from the Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia, and industry and community partners during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Throughout B.C. there are over 500,000 small businesses that contribute significantly to our communities and economy. To respond to the needs of these small businesses, and all businesses around the province, Small Business BC will be offering expanded services.
Advisors are available Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 1 833-254-4357. There is also an online chat service during operating hours, and you can email inquiries to covid@smallbusinessbc.ca. Support is available in several languages. A call-back feature will be in place to help manage high call volumes.
As part of the support service, this dedicated support website features announcements from industry and community partners as well as a variety of important resources, including webinars and practical tools. SBBC will continue to provide its usual services, including access to expert business advisors, educational services, and free easy-to-use resources in the context of COVID-19.
The B.C. Business Covid-19 Support Service is supported by the Government of British Columbia and the Government of Canada through Western Economic Diversification Canada. As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, the government will continue to support small businesses and take further action as needed.
Who is Small Business BC?
Small Business BC supports small business owners throughout B.C. in growing successful and sustainable businesses through expert business advisors, educational services and easy-to-use free tools.
How was this support service established?
Funding for the Small Business B.C. Business COVID-19 Support Service has been provided by the B.C. government ($250,000) and the Government of Canada through Western Economic Diversification Canada ($100,000). This funding will be used to provide system and hardware updates and hire additional staff to help field inquiries.
How long will the service be in place?
The B.C. government and federal government continue to support small businesses, noting the continued need for the B.C. Business Covid-19 Support Service. The service will remain in operation beyond June 30th to support the needs of the B.C. business community.
When is the support service open?
The support service will be open: Monday - Friday (9:00am-5:00pm)
What languages will be supported?
Support will be available in multiple languages over phone, email and live chat, including English, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese and Punjabi.
I have a media request
For specific media inquiries for the B.C. Business COVID-19 Support Service, please email James Blackwell at: blackwell.james@smallbusinessbc.ca
General Disclaimer: Feedback provided by Small Business BC and its employees is not to be taken as legal advice. Small Business BC accepts no liability or responsibility for any acts, errors, omissions, misuse, and/or misinterpretation resulting from reliance, in whole or in part, on information provided. Non-disclosure agreements are not signed; however, all confidentiality is assured.
