Greater Vernon Chamber joins Canada United campaign

VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce has joined Canada United, a national movement to support local businesses in communities across the country.

As part of the campaign, RBC has brought together more than 50 of Canada’s leading brands, business associations and the national Chamber network to rally Canadians to show local some love by buying, dining and shopping local Aug. 28 to 30.

“Businesses of all sizes employ our friends, neighbours and family, and they contribute to our sports teams, special events and charities,” said Krystin Kempton, Greater Vernon Chamber president.

“Covid-19 has created challenges for businesses in the North Okanagan and we need to continue to support entrepreneurs who create jobs, drive innovation, and generate wealth for our community. They will play an integral role in helping the region bounce back and Canada United recognizes their efforts.”

Canadians are invited to join the Canada United movement by buying and dining local during the Canada United Weekend Aug. 28 to 30.

Canadians are also encouraged to watch the Canada United videos online at GoCanadaUnited.ca, like posts from @GoCanadaUnited on social media and use #CanadaUnited to demonstrate their support.

For each of these actions until Aug. 31, 2020, RBC will contribute five cents up to a maximum contribution amount of $2 million to the new Canada United Small Business Relief Fund, while working with government and corporate partners to source additional contributions to the fund during the course of the campaign. The fund will provide small businesses with grants of up to $5,000 to cover expenses related to personal protective equipment, renovations to accommodate re-opening guidelines and developing or improving e-commerce capabilities.

Small business owners who are interested in the program can visit https://www.vernonchamber.ca/canada-united learn more about grant application details, including eligibility criteria, and to apply.

“By bringing together government, business associations and corporate Canada, we are looking to start a movement to get Canadians to buy local and support businesses across the country. We are genuinely excited by the energy all of our partners are bringing to this effort,” said Neil McLaughlin, group head of personal and commercial banking with RBC.
 
 
 
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:    
Richard Rolke, Communications Coordinator   
Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
P: 250-545-0771              E: info@vernonchamber.ca