New group to help Hamilton’s businesses navigate COVID-19’s economic impact

A working group dedicated to the city’s economic recovery has been formed by the City of Hamilton to address the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses and provide support.

A working group dedicated to the city’s economic recovery has been formed by the City of Hamilton to address the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses and provide support.

The initiative, undertaken in partnership with the city’s three Chambers of Commerce, launched a website Thursday (March 19) to offer guidance and support for businesses.

“As we work on pandemic response from a public health and City operations perspective, we are already thinking ahead to the economic recovery that will be needed in the weeks and months to come,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger in a press release.

“That’s why it is imperative we provide helpful information to our business community to help navigate the pandemic from an economic standpoint and assist in the economic recovery.”

The website is the first part of the initiative and it aims to provide business resources and information, as well as ways to directly contact City and Chamber staff throughout the pandemic.

The website provides a number of resources for business owners and entrepreneurs to find up-to-date information on changes due to COVID-19 that pertains to them quickly.

They provide links to government assistance, small business supports and legal resources.

“Our commitment to our members and the Hamilton business community during this trying time is priority one,” said Keanin Loomis, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.

“As our members work through a myriad of issues in keeping their businesses running and as information changes rapidly from many important sources, this site can be a one-stop, up-to-date resource upon which they can rely.”

In the meantime, while many of Hamilton’s small businesses are trying to keep their heads above water by trying to offer services that adhere to safe social distancing practices.

Mixed Media, for instance, long-time stationery and art supply shop in West Hamilton, is offering delivery and online and phone orders.

Hamilton’s restaurants are also offering delivery and take out options that limit human contact. Here’s a list of just some of those eateries.

“In these challenging and unprecedented times, we realize that it’s not business as usual for anyone,” said Matteo Patricelli, Executive Director- Flamborough Chamber of Commerce.

“It is important that we all come together, to navigate this uncharted territory and ensure that we all emerge from this successfully.”

The COVID-19 Business Continuity and Recovery Information website can be found here.