MANITOBA BUSINESS MATTERS
BUSINESS IS UNUSUAL The next wave of change will be strategic. Help is on the way. BY CAROLYNNE JANSEN
T he outbreak of COVID-19 continues to cause disruptions for many small to medium businesses, while fundamentally changing the way the world conducts business, now, and in the future. As the backbone of Manitoba’s economy, our small businesses must adjust to recover and be set up for success in the “new normal.” Every decision made today could have an impact on a business’ ability to thrive in a post-pandemic world. Communities across the country are eager to reopen and rebuild the tattered economy, but the approach to the restart varies greatly by province, territory, and sector. And, as we learn more about the virus amid surging cases and second waves, restrictions and restart processes evolve. As a result, business leaders are left with more questions than answers as they struggle to move forward and get back to work in a confusing environment. “Since the onset of the pandemic, our primary focus has been to mitigate COVID-19's impact by making sense of an
our partners who will help us bring Business is Unusual to life.” With the release of the guide, MCC will embark on a phased, business-led information delivery campaign that will position Manitoba’s businesses to thrive and fuel our economic recovery. In early November 2020, Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, announced more than $2.8 million for a robust series of initiatives to help local businesses survive and thrive. The MCC is one of 23 non-profit business support organizations on the ground to receive critical project funding from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund. With the federal government’s support, MCC and our partners will continue helping businesses prepare for the road ahead through a coordinated, longer-term initiative called Manitoba Business Matters . MCC is honoured to have received commitments from
overwhelming volume of information and communicating about public health orders, workplace health and safety protocols, and emergency relief programs,” says Manitoba Chambers of Commerce (MCC) President & CEO Chuck Davidson. “As we navigate this unprecedented challenge, we are committed to supporting Manitoba’s Chamber network and business community, and to advocating for measures to ensure their survival.” Up next, the MCC will launch a new initiative to provide businesses with the expert resources they need to persevere. Business Is Unusual – A Coronavirus Survival Guide for Manitoba Business will be available in early 2021 to nearly 45,000 small businesses across the province, and will feature comprehensive COVID-19 information, business resources, and tools. “While the pandemic has undoubtedly challenged us in many ways, it has highlighted Manitobans’ unwavering commitment to support one another during difficult times. We are incredibly grateful to Manitobans who have supported their local businesses, and to
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