[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) and Facebook Canada have come together to launch a new grant program designed to assist Black-owned businesses that were heavily impacted by COVID-19.

Facebook Canada is contributing $500,000 to the CBCC to support the national grant program, which is available via online application for all Black Canadian entrepreneurs. 

“COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted Black Canadian business owners, and shed light on the systemic barriers they face when starting, growing and scaling their businesses,” said Garrick Tiplady, Managing Director of Facebook Canada. “We’ve heard loud and clear from entrepreneurs that financial support goes a long way and we’re grateful to the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to support Black business owners who are the heart of our local communities and integral to Canada’s economy.” 

Tiplady joined Andria Barret, President of CBCC, to announce the initiative via a virtual fireside chat on Oct. 29, 2020. Barrett was excited to launch the initiative, saying, “We are thrilled to partner with Facebook Canada to support Black Canadian Entrepreneurs and their social media presence during this unprecedented time. With these grants, we can strengthen Black Entrepreneur’s online reach and capacity.”

The CBCC is a national non-profit organization that aims to promote the excellence of Black-owned businesses. The joint initiative with Facebook Canada was announced to cap off Black Business Week in Canada, which runs from Oct. 26, 2020 to Oct. 30, 2020. Currently, there’s no deadline to apply for the grant.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]