The City of Campbell River is looking to cushion the blow that the novel coronavirus is having on local businesses.
It’s joining forces with local business agencies to support economic challenges related to the pandemic.
Work is underway to promote local initiatives that encourage solidarity among and support of local businesses.
Businesses can now take part in virtual workshops and seminars.
The weekly meet-ups that will allow business owners to get advice about their business, share experiences, and connect with other local businesses.
The next one is tomorrow night from 6:00pm to 7:00pm.
Economic development officer Rose Klukas said local businesses are facing the “challenge of their lifetime.”
“It’s incredible how one event can make an impact on everyone. Literally nobody is unaffected. We have definitely seen some businesses that have had to pivot on the way that they do business and some have had to close down, hopefully temporarily, but it’s definitely a challenging time.”
She said these weekly online meetups is a way to directly connect with the local community.
Mayor Andy Adams said that the city values the important role that local businesses play in our local economy, and recognizes the challenges being faced in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
“While there is uncertainty in the coming weeks ahead, we are here to provide or point you to resources to help you during this time,” Adams added.
Klukas said that we’re seeing an “unprecedented change in business practices as people around the globe adjust to the realities of the COVID-19 outbreak.”
“Many of our businesses are struggling to adjust, but financial, technological and social resources are available to help during these difficult times.”
In partnership with Campbell River Area Angel Group and support from Campbell River Chamber of Commerce and Strathcona Community Futures, the City’s economic development team is collecting resources that are available online and that can be helpful to local business.
Klukas said the city has a website that provides “up-to-date, relevant information” for businesses. You can find the website here.
In May, economic development is working with Spring Activator to offer an online, business continuity program.
The goal is to provide business owners with training, tools, templates and support to cover all aspects of resetting their business to the new normal.
The program will cover restructuring cash flow and expenses, redefining the customer base and needs, aligning products and services including new products, services, and distribution, innovative finance and funding, and resilient leadership.
CRAAG member David Baar says, “An awareness of federal, provincial and local opportunities, a thoughtful change in business processes, the sensitive integration of technology to support efficient, remote work and solidarity among businesses in our area will be critical to weathering these tough times as a community.”
COVID-19 information as well as details about available resources and events can be found in the city’s website and also by clicking here.
