To assist eligible tourism and hospitality based operators impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Provincial Government today announced a $25 million support program for the industry.
Under the Tourism and Hospitality Support Program, eligible small and medium-sized tourism operators will be able to apply for a one-time, non-repayable working capital contribution of either $5,000 or $10,000, dependent on gross sales.
This short-term program will help enable operators cover some of their business costs. This support will provide immediate financial relief to operators who are dealing with substantial losses and continued fixed operating costs, providing support as many in the industry prepare to re-open.
In the coming days, program details including eligibility criteria, will be posted on the Department of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation website at www.gov.nl.ca/tcii/. Eligible operators will be able to apply starting Monday, June 8.
The Tourism and Hospitality Support Program complements other Provincial and Federal Government supports announced to date as well as existing emergency supports from the Government of Canada. Provincial funding for the program is being allocated from existing resources and through the COVID-19 contingency fund.
The tourism and hospitality industry generates over $1.14 billion in visitor spending each year, and is responsible for over 20,000 jobs, representing 2,700 businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Quotes
“The tourism and hospitality industry is among the most impacted sectors as a result of the unprecedented global health crisis. This new short-term program will provide operators with support they need to get back on their feet and better position them to re-open as restrictions begin to ease.”
Honourable Dwight Ball
Premier, Newfoundland and Labrador
“Tourism is an economic driver in the province, and we recognize the significant contribution that this industry makes to the economy. The Tourism and Hospitality Support Program will help to fill a gap for operators that are being significantly impacted by reduced non-resident visitation which normally exceeds more than half a million visitors every year.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism
2017-20 Provincial Tourism Product Development Plan
Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
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Media contacts
Jeremy Reynolds
Office of the Premier
709-729-3558
jeremyreynolds@gov.nl.ca
Eric Humber
Tourism, Culture, Industry and Innovation
709-725-9655
erichumber@gov.nl.ca