Funding announced for small businesses in Merritt affected by vandalism

MERRITT — Small businesses affected by vandalism across Merritt and BC can now apply for funds that assist in recovery and prevention.

This coming after $10.5 million dollars in funding was announced from the BC’s Ministry of Jobs . Businesses will be able to apply for as much as $2,000 for the cost of repairs, and up to $1,000 for prevention measures.

The rebate will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligible prevention measures include the purchase and installation of security cameras or gates. Repairs could include work undertaken to replace broken glass and remove graffiti.

The one-time rebate program applies to claims retroactive from January 1, 2023, up to December 31, 2024. The deadline for claims for 2023 is February 29, 2024.  The deadline for claims in 2024 is January 31, 2025.

The City of Merritt’s Community Policing Office (CPO) offers Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessments free of charge.  These CPTED assessments can help you identify areas of vulnerability and present tactics to mitigate risk. Contact the CPO office at 250-378-3955 or cpo@merritt.ca.

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply for the rebate at https://bcchamber.org/securing-small-business-rebate,

Business operators are also encouraged to connect with the Merritt & District Chamber of Commerce to learn more about local programs. For questions on this Securing Small Business Rebate, contact the BC Chamber of Commerce at ssbr@bcchamber.org.