‘Open for Business’ – new online directory supports local businesses

May 2, 2020 10:00 a.m.
Vaughan businesses encouraged to apply today to be included
 
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Vaughan continues to implement new measures and programs to support local businesses and entrepreneurs during this challenging time. The latest initiative is the Open for Business online directory, which lists local businesses that are open during the current state of emergency.
 
The voluntary listing includes both essential services and businesses that are open or providing modified operations by phone, online, takeout or delivery in compliance with provincial and municipal regulations. Vaughan businesses interested in being included in the list must apply and can do so through this online form.
 
The list – which is available at vaughan.ca/COVID19 – will be updated regularly.
 
This is the latest in a series of measures introduced by the City to provide relief to the business community and help ease the financial burden caused by COVID-19. On April 9, Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua launched the #ShopVaughanLocal campaign.
 
Residents looking to do their part to support the local economy can do so by shopping remotely with local businesses and restaurants with #ShopVaughanLocal. Citizens are encouraged to do any of the following to show their support for small businesses in Vaughan: 
 
  • Order take-out or delivery from a local restaurant
  • Buy gift cards for use at a later date
  • Order from local businesses online
  • Share your local love #ShopVaughanLocal
  • Access government supports for businesses at vaughan.ca/business
On March 17, the City launched the Vaughan Business Action Plan – which includes a series of temporary measures to support businesses, consumers and all citizens. The City’s Economic and Cultural Development department is available to support local businesses and entrepreneurs online or by phone to help access resources from the Government of Canada and the provincial government. Learn more at vaughan.ca/business.
 
A grace period of 90 days has also been established for business licence renewals. Licensees may defer renewal of their existing business licence up to 90 days past the expiry date of their licence. New businesses are still required to be licensed. New licence applications may be submitted by email to bylaw@vaughan.ca, along with scanned copies of required documentation. Payments can be made by cheque and mailed to Vaughan City Hall at 2141 Major Mackenzie Dr., Vaughan, ON, L6A 1T1.
 
To receive the City’s latest COVID-19 updates as they happen, sign up for the City Update eNewsletter at vaughan.ca/CityUpdate and follow the City’s Twitter, Facebook and Instagram channels.
 
Those who feel unwell and believe they have symptoms related to COVID-19 should contact York Region Public Health or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
 
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