Tourism Saskatchewan understands that these are unprecedented times for Saskatchewan’s tourism industry and tourism operators. The COVID-19 pandemic brought financial stress and uncertainty to attractions, businesses, events and other tourism organizations.
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We are working closely with provincial and federal agencies, Destination Canada, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and other industry partners to develop plans and support programs for the industry's recovery.
Email your COVID-19 questions and concerns to questions@tourismsask.com.
Last Updated: January 17, 2022
Webinars, Events and Resources
Tourism Associations Directory
Announcements
Federal COVID-19 support measures aid hardest hit sectors
The Government of Canada announced support measures for sectors hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving Omicron variant. Two programs summarized below replace the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) and Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy, which ended in October:
- Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program -– provides support through wage and rent subsidies to tourism businesses that include hotels, tour operators, travel agencies and restaurants. Eligible applicants can receive a subsidy rate of up to 75 per cent. Qualifying conditions include an average monthly revenue reduction of at least 40 per cent over the first 13 CEWS claim periods and a current month revenue decline also measuring 40 per cent or more.
- Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program – provides support to other organizations through wage and rent subsidies of up to 50 per cent. Qualifying conditions include an average monthly revenue reduction of at least 50 per cent over the first 13 CEWS claim periods and a current month revenue decline also measuring 50 per cent or more.
Additional support measures announced include:
- Increasing the monthly cap on eligible rent expenses that can be claimed
- Increasing the subsidy rate for the Canada Recovery Hiring Program from 20 to 50 per cent.
The programs are in place until May 7, 2022, with authority for further extension until July.
Register now for Canada Revenue Agency Q&A sessions – January 20-21
Mark your calendars for Canada Revenue Agency Q&A sessions about Government of Canada tourism support measures:
English Language Q&A Session
January 20
3 p.m. ET/2 p.m. CT
REGISTER
French Language Q&A Session
January 21
1 p.m. ET/12 p.m. CT
REGISTER
Canada Summer Jobs program applications accepted until January 25
The Canada Summer Jobs program provides wage subsides for employers in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to create summer work experiences for young people between the ages of 15 and 30.
Employers with 50 or fewer full-time employees are eligible to apply. Jobs must be full-time with a minimum of 30 hours a week and a duration of at least six weeks. The completion date for employment is September 3, 2022.
Apply for the Canada Summer Jobs program by January 25 (12 p.m., PT).
Information about travel-related health measures
On December 15, the Government of Canada announced an official advisory against Canadians travelling outside of the country for non-essential reasons. For more details on the latest measures please visit the Government of Canada website.
The Canada Border Services Agency website is the go-to source of information about crossing the border into Canada.
The Public Health Agency of Canada website offers details about COVID-19 in Canada, including travel information. Infographics address critical topics and highlight timely data and information.
Employers and businesses that have questions about health measures specific to Saskatchewan can access information on the Government of Saskatchewan’s website, Saskatchewan.ca. The site includes comprehensive information about vaccines, self-testing, variants of concern and pandemic-related health matters.
The Business Response Team also welcomes inquiries about the new public health measures and the impact on businesses and operations. Contact the team at 1-844-800-8688, supportforbusiness@gov.sk.ca.
Deadline extended for repayment of Canada Emergency Business Account
The Government of Canada announced an extension of the repayment timeframe for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA). The repayment deadline for CEBA loans to qualify for partial loan forgiveness is being extended to December 31, 2023, for all eligible borrowers in good standing
Repaying the balance of the loan on or before December 31, 2023 will result in loan forgiveness of up to 33 percent (up to $20,000).
Sign up for Destination Canada webinars – February 1-2
Destination Canada is hosting free webinars that will examine travel trends outlined in the recent report Tourism’s Big Shift: Key Trends Shaping the Future of Canada’s Tourism Industry.
Two webinars, offered in English and French, will examine major trends that will shape tourism in Canada over the next three years. The sessions will explore the implications and opportunities for small- and medium-sized tourism businesses. Participants will have an opportunity to ask questions. Destination Canada encourages open dialogue during these important sessions.
Details are as follows:
English Language Webinar
February 1
10 a.m. PT/12 p.m. CT
Speakers:
- Marsha Walden, President and CEO, Destination Canada
- Meaghan Ferrigno, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Destination Canada
Webinar Registration - Zoom (ensure Zoom settings are set to English to view this page)
French Language Webinar
February 2
10 a.m. PT/12 p.m. CT
Speakers:
- Sebastien Dubois, Executive Director, Industry Partnerships, Destination Canada
- Michel Dubreuil, Senior Manager, Research, Consumer and Market Intelligence, Destination Canada
Webinar Registration - Zoom (ensure Zoom settings are set to French to view this page)
Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) and Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) extended to December 2021
The Government of Canada has extended the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) and the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) until December 31, 2021.
Through HASCAP, the Business Development Bank of Canada will work with participating financial institutions to offer government-guaranteed, low-interest loans of up to $1 million. Businesses with multiple locations, such as hotels or restaurants, could be eligible for up to $6.25 million.
The BCAP loan guarantee, designed for Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses, is a partnership between Economic Development Canada and approved Canadian financial institutions. The program helps cover payroll and operating costs when cash flows have been temporarily reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Review details to determine if this financing is a fit for your business.
Funding announced for COVID-19 safe events in the arts and music sectors
The Government of Canada announced details of the Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations. The fund will assist with the planning and presentation of COVID-19 safe events, both live and digital, in the arts and music sectors. It supports work opportunities for artists and cultural works and helps to stabilize the overall environment.
A total of $181.5 million will be invested in 2021-2022. Funding available through the Canada Council for the Arts will support the creation or adaptation of works to be shared with virtual audiences, as well as research, creation and production of new work through the Explore and Create Program.
The Department of Canadian Heritage is receiving $65 million, including $40 million to support live arts and music events and their digital distribution.
More details are forthcoming on the Canadian Heritage website. Applications will be accepted on a continuous intake in 2021-2022.
Saskatchewan hotels invited to participate in STR hotel benchmarking program
A global company, STR provides premier data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for the hospitality industry. To help grow Saskatchewan’s performance sample, hotels across the province are invited to participate in a complimentary program, led by STR. The data collected through this program will assist hotel managers and destination marketers to gauge performance trends, make strategic decisions and position properties, businesses and communities for a strong recovery.
Read more details about data use, confidentiality and advantages to participating businesses.
Sign up for this important program today.
Health and Safety
Government of Saskatchewan
COVID Alert App
The Health Canada COVID Alert app is available to Saskatchewan residents. Once downloaded to your smart phone, subscribers may participate in digital COVID-19 exposure alerts. The national COVID Alert app uses Bluetooth technology to detect when users are near each other. If a user tests positive for COVID-19, they can choose to let other users know about potential exposure risk without sharing any personal information. The Health Canada COVID Alert app is available at no cost in the Apple and Google Play app store. For more information, visit www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/covid-alert.html.
Public Health Agency of Canada
The World Health Organization (WHO)
Business Operations Support
Government of Saskatchewan
The Business Response Team works directly with businesses to identify program supports, both provincially and federally.
Business Response Team
1-844-800-8688
supportforbusiness@gov.sk.ca
Saskatchewan Economic Development Authority
The Saskatchewan Economic Development Authority is offering training through its Destination Creation Program. Businesses can apply to the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant to subsidize these training costs. The new Re-Open Saskatchewan Training Subsidy Program can also be accessed to cover the training costs - application deadline is December 31.
Government of Canada
Federal Work-Sharing Program
The Government of Canada extended its Work-Sharing Program from 38 weeks to 76 weeks for employers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This measure will provide income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance who agree to reduce their normal working hours because of developments beyond the control of their employers.
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
*please contact your financial institution first if you are not already a BDC member*
Canadian Payroll Association
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
Canadian Federation for Independent Business (CFIB)
Service Hospitality
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
Global Affairs Canada
- Trade Commissioner Service Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Resources for Canadian businesses
- Western Economic Diversification Canada
- Google for Small Businesses
- Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority
- Business Development Bank of Canada
- Facebook Small Business Grants Program
- Bank of Canada Rate News
Finance Canada
Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce
Saskatchewan Hotel and Hospitality Association
- Liquidity Options for Hotels
- Coronavirus Guide for Hospitality
- COVID 19 FAQ - Taking Care of Employees and Guests
Tourism Recovery
Employee Support
Government of Saskatchewan
Support for workers adversely affected by the COVID-19 situation:
Saskatchewan Self-Isolation Support Program
The Government of Saskatchewan offers the Saskatchewan Self-Isolation Support Program for Saskatchewan workers who are in self-isolation due to COVID-19 infection, contact or symptoms, and are ineligible for other government assistance programs. Eligible applications can access $450 per week for a maximum of two weeks.
Marketing Support
BC Hughes
Destination Think!
- COVID-19 Pandemic needs rational leadership from tourism destinations
- Facebook COVID-19 Support Group for DMOs and CMOs
- COVID-19 Support Network
Destination Canada
Recovery Support
Tourism Saskatchewan
Tourism Saskatchewan’s video, "Pathway to Recovery," lays out Tourism Saskatchewan’s phased plan to support the tourism industry through the COVID-19 crisis and beyond, through close work with DMOs, CMOs, operators and industry stakeholders. As the Re-open Saskatchewan plan states: "Although the challenge is formidable, it’s one that we’re overcoming by working together."
Tourism Saskatchewan
Pathway to Recovery Training Series
Tourism Saskatchewan’s online Pathway to Recovery Training Series offers 14 comprehensive training programs to keep workplaces operational and adjust to pandemic safety protocols. Each program delivers online, instructor-led training to increase knowledge and improve job skills, and includes pandemic-specific training.
Clean it Right Saskatchewan
Tourism Saskatchewan’s Clean It Right program is a convenient online training tool for tourism businesses. It helps implement clearly defined policies and procedures for cleaning and disinfecting facilities. The online course, available 24-7, is delivered through three custom modules that address the needs of specific industries:
- Accommodations, including hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts
- Restaurants and food services
- Retail businesses
To earn Clean It Right Business certification, a property must have all cleaning staff complete the program. Designated businesses are authorized to display a Clean It Right window decal and electronic logo to reassure the public of a clean and safe environment.
The program is being provided by Tourism Saskatchewan free of charge to all Saskatchewan businesses.
Enrol staff in the training at Business.TourismSaskatchewan.com.
For more information, contact Kari Burgess at 306-933-5913 or 1-800-331-1529, kari.burgess@tourismsask.com.
Saskatchewan Economic Development Authority
The Saskatchewan Economic Development Authority is offering training through its Destination Creation Program. Businesses can apply to the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant to subsidize these training costs.
Tourism HR Canada
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
Restaurants Canada - Free Webinars and Resources
- Rapid Recovery Series - Ten sessions available, ranging in topics from Rebuilding Your Workforce, Opening Your Doors to a Safer Future, Winning You Customer Back, and more
- Restaurants Canada Rapid Recovery Guide
- Re-opening Tracker - Updated government announcements and activities across the country related to lifting restrictions and reopening the economy
Destination Think!
Service Hospitality
World Travel and Tourism Council
Webinars, Events and Resources
Tourism Saskatchewan
- Adapting Your Business: a Strategic Approach. Presenter: Albert Jame, Strategy Director, Zu.com.
- Know Your Markets. Presenters: Jonathan Potts, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, Tourism Saskatchewan; Jeannette Lye, Manager of Planning and Research, Tourism Saskatchewan. Learn about Saskatchewan resident’s travel behaviour and media preferences. Find out who is travelling this summer, what they are looking for and how to reach them.
- Controlling for COVID-19 with Confidence - thinking beyond the mask and hand sanitizer to develop effective safety precautions. Presenter: Robyn Reist, Senior Specialist, Occupational Health and Safety, RCH Consulting Ltd.
- Ramping Up as the Curve Flattens. Presenter: Eva Gutsche, Owner, STEM Consulting & Marketing Inc.
All Tourism Saskatchewan webinars are posted the Pathways to Recovery playlist.
Government of Canada
World Tourism Organization
- UNWTO Global Guidelines to Restart Tourism
- UNWTO COVID 19 Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package
Destination Canada
Tourism HR Canada
Museums Association of Saskatchewan
- Considerations When Re-opening Museums
- Supporting Seasonal Staff During COVID-19
- Social Media During COVID-19
Restaurants Canada - Free Webinars and Resources
- Rapid Recovery Series - Ten sessions available, ranging in topics from Rebuilding Your Workforce, Opening Your Doors to a Safer Future, Winning You Customer Back, and more
- Restaurants Canada Rapid Recovery Guide
- COVID-19 Resources for Foodservice Operators
- Crisis Preparedness and Business Continuity Guide
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
SafetyCheck - Canadian Food Safety Group
Trans Canada Trail (The Great Trail)
Conference Board of Canada
- Click here for upcoming webinars and daily updates
Destination Think!
Service Hospitality
Business Development Bank of Canada
Tourism Associations Directory
- Destination Canada
- Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC)
- Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC)
- Tourism HR Canada
- Hotel Association of Canada (HAC)
- Restaurants Canada
If you didn't find what you were looking for above, please email your COVID-19 questions and concerns to questions@tourismsask.com.
