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# Yukon Business Relief Program extended

Yukon businesses impacted by COVID-19 will continue to receive support from the Government of Yukon. The Yukon Business Relief Program has been extended until March 31, 2021.

The program has been updated to help businesses in need by including coverage for a broader list of fixed costs and adjusting eligibility for support. Businesses experiencing an operating deficit from August 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021, are eligible to apply. The program is open to all Yukon businesses, including home-based businesses.

Yukon businesses are encouraged to contact the Department of Economic Development to start an application by email at ecdev@gov.yk.ca or by phone at 867-456-3803 or toll-free 1-800-661-0408, extension 3803. The deadline for program applications is April 15, 2021.

> The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for Yukon businesses and the Government of Yukon is here to help. We are working closely with Yukon’s business community to monitor economic impacts and identify ways to support our economy. As Yukon businesses continue to adapt and recover, our government will ensure our programs provide support where it is needed to help reinforce our local economy.

Quick facts

- The Yukon Business Relief Program has delivered more than $5.1 million to 434 Yukon businesses as of September 22.

- Previously, the Yukon Business Relief Program provided funding to businesses for their fixed costs and was only available to businesses that had seen revenues decline by at least 30 per cent due to COVID-19. Applicants must now demonstrate that they are operating at a deficit, where expenses exceed revenue. Unique, negative business impacts due to COVID-19 pandemic will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

- In addition to the Yukon Business Relief Program, the Government of Yukon continues to support local businesses with programs such as:

  - The Paid Sick Leave Rebate to allow Yukon workers without sick leave to stay at home for up to 10 working days if they are sick or are required to self-isolate.
  - Changes to the Yukon Nominee Program criteria to address concerns about nominee status for those nominees who may experience layoff or reduced hours.
  - The Yukon Essential Workers Income Support Program to provide temporary financial support for lower-income workers delivering essential services during COVID-19.

Media contact

Janine Workman
Cabinet Communications
867-332-0480
janine.workman@gov.yk.ca

Jason Seaton
Communications, Economic Development
867-667-5907
jason.seaton@gov.yk.ca

News release #:
20-267