2021 Ontario Economic Report

“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on many businesses of all sizes. The health and safety of all Ontarians remains our top priority because we know we can’t have a healthy economy without a healthy workforce. To support businesses during this difficult period, our government is providing significant financial support, including through the Ontario Small Business Support Grant. This program provides a minimum of $10,000 and up to $20,000 to help offset a variety of costs, including personal protective equipment, rent, wages, hydro, and property taxes. We are also laying the groundwork for our long-term recovery with critical investments in broadband, transit, and highways. We will always have the backs of our business owners. I am confident that, with the help of great partners like the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and its members, our economy will come back with a vengeance when this crisis is over. Because tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” – Premier of Ontario, Leader, Ontario Progressive Conservative Party

“The past year has been hard on Ontario businesses, especially small businesses. Thank you to the Ontario Chamber for the work they do in support of business of all sizes across the province. I’ve been advocating for direct financial support for businesses so they have a fighting chance to survive the pandemic. As we begin to think about recovery, we have to ensure that we leverage the opportunities that a greener and more caring economy can offer. We must learn from the lessons of the pandemic and work to ensure our businesses can recover and thrive once more.” – Mike Schreiner, Leader, Ontario Green Party

“Through unprecedented challenges, Ontario’s business community continues to show its strength and resiliency, thanks to an amazing workforce and strong advocates like the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. As the son of a former small business owner, I understand how difficult these times are, and I will continue to fight for more support so that businesses can survive and thrive through the recovery from COVID-19.” – Steven Del Duca, Leader, Ontario Liberal Party

“People and local businesses have done their part during the pandemic with the support and resources of chambers of commerce and boards of trade. They kept as many people on the payroll as they could, kept supply chains moving, and worked hard to stop the spread. I believe they deserve a government that does its part, too, by investing in the survival of Ontario businesses and jobs today, and laying the groundwork for a post-pandemic comeback that unlocks Ontario’s potential.” – Andrea Horwath, Leader, Ontario New Democratic Party

“The OCC’s Ontario Economic Report provides valuable insight into the challenges Ontario businesses have faced during the pandemic. As a key partner in supporting economic recovery, Hydro One will continue to advocate for customers and businesses while collaborating with industry, government and municipalities to spark economic growth. Through our Ontario-focused strategy, we will continue to energize life and strengthen local economies by investing in a resilient, safe and reliable electricity system.” – Mark Poweska, President and CEO, Hydro One. 

“In the face of unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the OCC has provided leadership, advocacy and pragmatic solutions that kept us all safer and helped businesses stay stronger. Now as we look to economic recovery in the months and years ahead, the findings presented in the Ontario Economic Report are a starting point to align the actions we need to take to pave the road back to prosperity.” – Michael W. Rencheck, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Power