Small Business Recovery Outreach Program

Shopkeepers. Restauranteurs. Personal & Professional Service Providers, Bakers. Makers, Artists & Entrepreneurs... Thank you. We know you've been adapting, changing, and even struggling. Just know that in this community, you’re more than a business, you’re our neighbour and our friend. And whether you’re "essential" right now or not, you’re essential to us.

We’ve heard from many business owners that the path forward for your business may be unclear and you may be looking for help. To assist you, we've mobilized a team of people who are ready to listen and help find the answers you need. Whether you need to talk to a CERB expert, need to access a digital squad to help move your business online, or to learn how to reach more customers at home, we're ready to connect you to that advice. We’re also learning from you, learning what tools and resources we need to create to help everyone reopen & recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

The program is FREE for any business in Waterloo Region. All you need to do is fill out the form below and we will contact you directly.

How it Works

1. Fill out the intake form below.

2. Within 1-2 business days, you will receive an email from us inviting you to book a telephone appointment with one of our Outreach Team Members. You will be able to pick a time that suits your schedule.

3. During your appointment, our Outreach Team Member will conduct a 30-45 minute assessment interview with you. They will ask you a series of questions to understand how COVID-19 has impacted your businesses, and any challenges you’re facing as you focus on recovery/reopening.

4. Following the interview, our Outreach Team will confer with industry experts to identify the best resources, programs, etc., to assist you with your challenges. You will receive an email providing a customized list of suggestions to assist you.

NOTE – we will not be providing you with business advice during the assessment interview. Our role is to connect you with the best resources available, that can assist you in your decision making. If you need specific advice or services, we will help refer you to experts, advisors, webinars, etc., who can provide the advice you are looking for.

Who Can Access the Program

The City of Kitchener will lead the initial outreach efforts, in partnership with Waterloo Region Small Business Centre, with a focus on Kitchener-based businesses, all businesses in Waterloo Region can request an outreach call. Staff from the Waterloo Region Small Business Centre will contact interested businesses outside of Kitchener.

The Outreach Recovery Program is geared toward supporting small businesses of all kinds, such as restaurants, retail, personal services, professional services, hospitality businesses, etc.

If you are unsure, please fill out the form.

How Long Will the Program Run?

This program will run throughout the month of May.

What Happens in June?

Based on our learnings from businesses, we will be developing a Business Recovery Toolkit that will be available to all businesses in Waterloo Region. This toolkit will include a comprehensive list of tools, resources, and programs that can assist you with the next stages of recovery and reopening for your business.

What if I'm unable to participate in May?

Not to worry. If we are unable to reach you in May, you will have access to the Business Recovery Toolkit in June. The Small Business Centre programs and resources are currently available to you, free of charge. Small Business Advisors are always available to help on an ongoing basis.