Victims of vandalism who operate a small business in B.C. will soon be able to apply for provincial funding to help cover the costs of the crime.
Starting Nov. 22, applicants for the $10.5 million Securing Small Business Rebate program can seek up to $2,000 per business for the cost of vandalism, including glass breakage and graffiti.
The program also provides as much as $1,000 for each commercial property to purchase and install preventative measures, such as security cameras.
“Small businesses are the foundation of B.C.'s economy, and we are taking action to maintain a thriving business community,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Supporting small businesses with this rebate helps provide some relief for the costs they've taken on through no fault of their own.”
Applications are retroactive to incidents of vandalism that occur from Jan. 1, 2023 through Jan. 31, 2024.
Rebates will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Securing Small Business Rebate will be administered by the BC Chamber of Commerce. Go to the website to learn more about their eligibility and how to apply for the rebate.
