The Grow Your Business Online Grant is a program from the federal government designed to help businesses increase their e-commerce capabilities by developing their ability to sell goods and services online, and to market online to new customers.  Applications end on September 30, 2024!

Eligible businesses can apply to receive a micro-grant of up to $2,400 to help with the costs related to adopting e-commerce and can access a network of e-commerce advisors to help them implement and maximize their efforts.

For a summary of the program, read below. 

For full information visit the government site. 

Applications will be funneled through three entities in BC, but you can only receive one grant:
Apply through Alacrity Canada
Apply through Small Business BC
Apply through Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business  

Grants:

The micro-grants will be for up to $2,400 and can be towards the cost of activities including, but not limited to:

• Implementation of a new digital e-commerce solutions including creating an online reservation/booking tools, online ordering systems, electronic payments
• Website search optimization
• Installation of an e-commerce platform (including subscription fees/costs)
• Back-office solutions to support an e-commerce strategy
• Social media advertising as part of an e-commerce strategy
• Creation of customer databases

Advisory Support:

Businesses can also access a network of e-commerce advisors who can help assess their digital needs and help them develop their e-commerce strategies and deploy new digital technologies.  This advice comes at no cost to the business, and they can receive up to 30 hours of support.

Eligibility:

Applications can only be submitted by a small business that meets all of the following criteria:

• Is a for-profit business (including for-profit social enterprises and co-operatives)
• Is a registered or incorporated business
• Is a consumer-facing business, and can be accessed by consumers or provides in-person services to consumers
• Has at least one employee
• Must commit to maintaining digital adoption strategy for six months after participation in the program

• Corporate chains, franchises or registered charities
• Representatives of multi-level marketing companies
• Real estate brokerages
• Non Profits
• Drop shippers, wholesalers or distributors 

Questions on this or other business programs?  Contact the Langley Chamber at info@langleychamber.com