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Opportunities New Brunswick Announces $2,000 Grant for Self-Employed Businesses
New Brunswick Self-Employed Businesses to Receive $2,000 Grant
In a much-needed relief for self-employed businesses in New Brunswick, Opportunities New Brunswick has announced a one-time $2,000 grant, marking the first offering of its kind since the beginning of the pandemic.
Fredericton hair salon owner Lindsay Morrison expressed her relief at the news, stating, “I mean it’s something, so that’s good.” However, she also highlighted the existing barriers that self-employed individuals still face.
Arlene Dunn, the minister responsible for Opportunities New Brunswick, shared that the Self-Employed Lockdown Fund was initiated in response to the outcry from small business owners who were not receiving the necessary support. Dunn emphasized that the $2,000 grant is specifically for one-person businesses that do not have any employees and earn $30,000 in revenue per year.
The revenue threshold was set based on the understanding that businesses earning less than $30,000 are already covered by the Canada workers lockdown benefit, which provides $300 per week. Dunn estimated that around 2,000 businesses in New Brunswick would qualify for the grant.
Despite the positive step, some concerns remain. Louis-Philippe Gauthier from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business pointed out that the previous requirements left a significant gap in support for businesses in need. He welcomed the new grant for self-employed businesses but emphasized that more needs to be done.
Morrison, the owner of Mudita Hair Bar, echoed similar sentiments, stating that while the $2,000 grant will help with bills, it may not be sufficient for all self-employed individuals. She emphasized that the overhead costs vary for each business, and for some, the grant may fall short.
Overall, the announcement of the $2,000 grant for self-employed businesses in New Brunswick is a step in the right direction, providing much-needed support during these challenging times. Eligible businesses can expect to receive the grant within 10 days of applying, offering a glimmer of hope for those navigating the uncertainties of the pandemic.
