Securing Small Business Rebate Program: Supporting BC Businesses Against Crime and Vandalism

Property crime and vandalism can significantly burden small businesses in British Columbia, leading to unexpected costs and operational disruptions. To address this challenge, the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation has launched the $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate Program. This initiative provides financial relief to small businesses, helping them recover from the effects of vandalism and implement preventative measures to protect their operations.

Program Overview

The Securing Small Business Rebate Program offers two types of rebates to assist eligible businesses: the Reparative Rebate and the Preventative Rebate. These rebates are designed to ease the financial strain caused by vandalism and help businesses enhance their security measures.

The BC Chamber of Commerce administers the program, leveraging its network of 100 chambers of commerce, boards of trade, and industry partners to ensure businesses across the province can access the available support.

Program Details and Timeline

• Application Portal: Now open and accessible here, the portal will accept applications until January 31, 2025, or until funds are fully allocated.
• Rebate Period: Rebates apply retroactively to incidents or measures undertaken between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024.
• Processing Time: Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Approved applicants can expect their rebate to be issued within 35 business days of approval, provided minimal follow-up is required.
• Rebate Disbursement: Payments will be made via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) between December 2023 and February 2025, or until program funds are exhausted.

Types of Rebates

1. Reparative Rebate
   • Designed to provide immediate financial relief for businesses affected by vandalism.
   • Offers up to $2,000 per calendar year for eligible repairs.
   • Applies to vandalism incidents occurring between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024.
2. Preventative Rebate
   • Supports businesses in implementing security measures to prevent future vandalism.
   • Provides a one-time rebate of up to $1,000.
   • Covers costs incurred between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for either rebate, businesses must meet the following criteria:

• Be located in a commercial, business, or light industry zone in British Columbia.
• Have a primary exterior entrance accessible from the outside, such as a sidewalk, street, or parking area.
• Possess a valid B.C. Registration or Incorporation Number and be in good standing with the province.
• Employ fewer than 50 employees at the time of the vandalism incident or preventative work.
• Not have received other rebates, grants, or insurance claims (excluding deductibles) to cover the same expenses.

Why This Program Matters

Vandalism and property crime can hinder small businesses, impacting their financial stability and ability to serve their communities. This rebate program empowers business owners by offsetting the costs of repairs and proactive security measures, enabling them to focus on growth and recovery.

With support from the BC Chamber of Commerce and its partners, the program aims to reach businesses in every sector and region, reinforcing the province’s commitment to fostering a secure and vibrant small business environment.

Apply Now

If your business meets the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this opportunity to secure funding for reparative and preventative measures. Act quickly, as funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. For more details and to apply, visit the program's application portal here.

Let’s work together to protect the businesses that form the backbone of our communities.

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Small Business Rebate Program #Reparative Rebate #Preventative Rebate #BC Chamber of Commerce #Property Crime #Vandalism #Jenny Holly Hansen