The Grow Your Business Online Grant is a new 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.

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

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