Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, issued the following statement in recognition of Small Business Week:

“I share the hope of many that with high vaccine uptake we have begun to turn a corner on a critical period for the Northwest Territories (NWT) during the global pandemic. Having had to face a new round of restrictions in order to address COVID-19 outbreaks in communities, small businesses across the territory have shown resiliency and strength in the face of adversity.

‘Since the start of this pandemic, local businesses across the NWT have responded decisively to the swift changes in their markets, pivoting and adapting their models to keep NWT residents safe while continuing to serve their communities. Owners of these businesses are our family members, friends and neighbours, and they help to diversify and stabilize our economy while training and employing residents in our communities.

“Recognizing that the territory’s small business owners have been faced with great challenges over the course of the pandemic, the Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT), with help from our federal partners, has introduced various support programs for businesses.

“The GNWT’s Support for Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED) program, for example, provides funding to help businesses pivot to new operating requirements, adapt structural safety measures, purchase personal protective equipment, and provide relief for short-term challenges. We’ve also rolled out several other programs targeted at the tourism and hospitality sectors including: the Growth and Recovery by Investing in Tourism (GRIT) fund; Pandemic Relief Extension Program (PREP); Supplement for Tourism Accommodation Relief (STAR) Program; and the newest Tourism Restart Investment Program (TRIP).

“The GNWT will continue to support small businesses as they continue to navigate the pandemic and pave a way forward towards greater prosperity, innovation and diversity. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and will play a crucial role in the territory’s ’s economic recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am proud to see residents across the territory supporting their local businesses and encourage anyone who has the means to Buy North and support local.”