Supporting Canadians
Recent trade news with the United States continues to bring concern to families, workers, and business owners in Kanata, Bells Corners, Stittsville, Carp, and across Canada. When unfair trade actions threaten local livelihoods and key Canadian industries, having strong, reliable support for our community is paramount.
I want to reassure you that our government is taking clear, decisive action to stand up for our community and country, safeguard local livelihoods, and protect Canadian workers. Rather than accepting an unfair deal that would harm our long-term economic strength and Canadian sovereignty, Canada suspended negotiations so we can focus on building resilience right here at home and delivering real, targeted support where it’s needed most.
To support Canadian workers and businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs, our government is introducing a $7.5 billion package of new and enhanced measures, building on the nearly $25 billion in supports already provided.
What This Means for Local Businesses
If your business is facing cash-flow strains, supply chain issues, or tariff pressures, direct support is available right now:
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can access non-repayable liquidity support through the $1.5 billion Regional Tariff Response Initiative.
Through the Business Development Bank of Canada’s Pivot to Grow program, affected businesses can apply for working capital loans from $250,000 up to $5 million with 36 months of interest-only payments. We’ve also lowered the revenue eligibility threshold to $1 million so smaller businesses can qualify.
Medium-sized businesses facing funding pressures. can access the new $2 billion Canada Strong Diversification Fund with fast-tracked project review. Larger employers can leverage expanded terms under the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan facility.
You can find complete program details and eligibility guidelines on the Government of Canada Business Support Portal.
What This Means for Impacted Workers
For workers facing reduced hours, temporary layoffs, or job displacement due to tariff impacts, a $3.5 billion Rapid Response Benefit Program for Workers provides immediate protection and income support:
The standard 1-week Employment Insurance (EI) waiting period is waived so benefit payments start right away. You do not need to exhaust severance or vacation payouts before receiving EI regular benefits.
Long-tenured workers facing extended displacement will receive up to an extra 20 weeks of regular EI coverage.
We are introducing the new Worker Retention and Retraining Program (WRRP) to help employers avoid layoffs through enhanced work-sharing options and training grants up to $1,000 per participant.
Increasing supports to match workers with jobs on JobBank.gc.ca
To learn about EI temporary flexibilities, explore skills training, or apply for benefits, visit the Government of Canada Tariff Support for Workers Page or access EI services directly at Canada.ca Employment Insurance.
Effective September 8, Canada will match U.S. tariffs dollar-for-dollar and rate-for-rate. Imposing counter-tariffs of 15%, 25%, and 50% on $27.6 billion in U.S. imports will directly level the playing field for Canadian producers in key sectors like steel, dairy, appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper, and electronics.
This strategy is designed specifically to defend Canadian industry and ensure our local producers can continue to compete fairly within our domestic market. As we navigate this period of uncertainty, our focus remains on building strength at home and diversifying our trade, so Canada is no longer reliant on a single trading partner.
Official Resources & Statements
To review the full announcements and access program guidelines, please see the links below:
Whether you are an employer trying to protect your workforce or a worker navigating these changes, my team is here to assist. Please do not hesitate to contact our office directly for guidance.
Sincerely,
Jenna
