Ontario Tourism Recovery Program

On September 27, the Province announced that it is investing investing $100 million through the new Tourism Recovery Program to help stabilize the province’s tourism industry as it recovers from the impacts of COVID-19. 

The program will help for-profit tourism businesses in the attraction, accommodation, and leisure travel sectors protect critical jobs in communities across the province and help them prepare to reopen and safely welcome back visitors. The Program will support tourism businesses that have experienced a loss of at least 50 per cent of eligible revenue in 2020-21 compared to 2019. 

Successful recipients will have the flexibility to apply funds to any eligible expenses and do what makes the most sense for their businesses. Applications for this program will open on October 13, 2021.

Read more about this announcement here.
Free Workplace Safety Plan Builder

On September 27, the Province launched the new Workplace Safety Plan Builder, a free interactive tool making it easier for workplaces to create and update their COVID-19 safety plans. The tool was developed specifically to support small businesses and was designed with their input.

The safety plan builder will lead employers through an easy process to create and update an online safety plan that is right for their workplace. It also allows for easy customization and employers who sign up for updates will be notified when information is changed, allowing them to stay up to date with current guidance and requirements.

Read more about this announcement here.
Ease in Capacity Limits in Select Settings

On September 24, the Province announced the ease in capacity limits for select indoor and outdoor settings where proof of vaccination is required. 

Effective September 25, 2021, at 12:01 a.m. – Capacity limits have been increased in many of the indoor settings where proof of vaccination is required. Meeting and event spaces, such as banquet halls and conference/convention centres; sporting events; concerts, theatres and cinemas; racing venues (e.g., horse racing); and commercial and film television productions with studio audiences have been increased to up to 50 per cent capacity or 10,000 people (whichever is less) for indoor events. For certain outdoor event venues where patrons stand, capacity limits have been increased to up to 75 per cent capacity or 15,000 people (whichever is less). For certain outdoor event venues where patrons are seated, capacity limits have been increased to up to 75 per cent capacity or 30,000 people (whichever is less). 

Read more about this announcement here.