(TRI-CITIES) November 2, 2023 — The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce applauds the BC Government's vandalism rebate program to help small businesses with the costs of repairing broken glass, removing graffiti, and vandalism prevention measures.
Starting November 22, businesses will be able to apply for up to $5,000 from the $10.5 million fund, called the Securing Small Business Rebate Program, for costs incurred due to eligible commercial property crime and vandalism repairs, or eligible crime prevention measures from January 1, 2023 onward.
"The Tri-Cities Chamber and our counterparts across the province have been advocating for the government to help small businesses survive," said Leslie Courchesne, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber. "This fund to help offset the costs of senseless vandalism will be a welcome silver lining when business owners fall victim to these crimes."
The BC Chamber of Commerce, of which the Tri-Cities Chamber is a member, will administer the rebate program and leverage its provincial network of 100 chambers of commerce and boards of trade and its myriad industry partners, including Business Improvement Associations, to ensure businesses from every sector and region of the province are aware of the rebate.
There are two types of rebates:
1. Reparative Rebate
- Provides immediate relief to offset eligible reparative costs in respect of damage to eligible commercial property due to vandalism on or after January 1, 2023.
- Available as a one-time rebate of up to $2,000, per calendar year.
- Retroactive to January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2024.
2. Preventative Rebate
- Provides funding for eligible proactive/preventative measures to mitigate damage to eligible commercial property due to vandalism.
- Available as a one-time rebate of up to $1,000.
- Retroactive to January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2024.
Read more about the program and eligibility requirements, and download the application guide from the BC Chamber of Commerce information page here.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,000+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Leslie Courchesne, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870