The Regional Relief and Recovery Fund provides help to businesses unable to access CEBA or those who may need more help. The program allows Canada’s 6 Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and many Community Futures/Development organizations to administer CEBA-like loans to businesses in their communities impacted by COVID-19. Like the CEBA, these loans are intended to help businesses cover their fixed costs, through an interest-free loan with a 25% forgivable loan component if the balance is paid before December 31, 2022.
Most recent update:
On January 12, 2022, government announces the extension of the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund repayment deadline and interest-free period from December 31st, 2022, to December 31st, 2023.
Applications for the RRRF closed June 30, 2021.
| Program overview | FAQ | Other resources |
RRRF Program Overview
How the program is administered: through the 6 Regional Development Agencies (RDA) and 268 Community Futures Organizations. Although the funding has the same name, each organization manages its own RRRF with its own eligibility criteria. Those who are not eligible for the RRRF through their RDA should contact their local Community Futures Organization for the RRRF or alternative loan options.
List of the Regional Development Agencies (RDA):
- Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency (ACOA)
- Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)
- Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)
- Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev)
- Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor)
- Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD)
- Find your Local Community Futures program by clicking on your province on the Community Futures Canada website
Community Futures are Community Futures Development Corporations and Community Business Development Corporations (CFDCs/CBDCs) that provide their communities with a variety of services including business development loans, technical support, training and information.
When to apply: Applications are closed.
Application deadline: Varies, depending on the RDA.
Since each RDA manage its own program, see the detail about your specific region below to learn about the amount your business could receive, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
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Applications for the RRRF are now closed in Atlantic Canada as all funds have been allocated.
How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Atlantic Canada?
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Atlantic Association of Community Business Development Corporations (CBDCs) are distributing the RRRF in Atlantic Canada.
Who can apply for the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
Business and organization who have either:
- applied for other federal relief measures but were unsuccessful; or
- accessed other federal relief programs but are still experiencing financial hardship. (Only eligible costs for which you have not received any other assistance may be covered by the RRRF).
If you are uncertain if the RRRF is right for you speak to an ACOA program officer by calling 1-800-561-7862 or email [email protected]. If you are a current ACOA client, please contact your program officer directly.
Note: sectors critical to the resilience and survival of Atlantic Canada’s economy (i.e. manufacturing, ocean industries, clean growth technology and tourism) may be given priority.
What is the maximum amount I can receive from the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
Eligible applicants can receive up to $60,000, $20,000 of which is forgivable if the balance is repaid by December 31, 2022.
What are eligible costs that can be requested for assistance from the Atlantic RRRF?
The RRRF is meant to assist with eligible costs that have not been addressed by other emergency relief. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis by an ACOA program officer and detailed in your contribution agreement.
Some eligible costs that can be requested by an applicant are:
- Rent
- Rent or lease of equipment and machinery
- Salaries and benefits
- Property taxes
- Utilities
- Cleaning Supplies
- Additional safety measures
- Bank interest charges
- Interest portion of loan payments
- Office supplies
- Vehicle operating expenses
- Professional fees
- Insurance
- Other fixed overhead costs
- One-time stabilization expenditures
When can I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) funding?
Applications are open and will be accepted and assessed until March 31, 2021, or until the funding runs out, whichever comes first.
Note: Applications are closed for the RRRF in Atlantic Canada as all funds have been disbursed.
How do I apply for the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
Speak to ACOA before applying to ensure the process goes smoothly. Help with fillable forms is also available.
- Download:
- Prepare all supporting documents:
- externally prepared financial statements for years 2018 & 2019
- Projected cash flow for six months
- Copy of articles of incorporation (if applicable)
- All other documentation relevant to your request
- Submit your application and supporting documents:
Keep a copy of the submission for your records. Applications will be assessed as they are received. Ensure that your application is properly completed to be processed quickly; an incomplete application may prevent ACOA from considering it.
I didn’t get funding from any other federal relief program; will I automatically get money from the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
While every effort will be made to provide RRRF funding to as many businesses as possible, demands for funds may exceed the amount that is available.
Is the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) repayable?
Yes, it is repayable. There is a 2-year “grace” period which ends on December 31, 2022. If the balance of the RRRF is repaid by this date, then up to $20,000 will be forgivable. If the balance has not been paid by December 31, 2022, then the full amount of the loan will need to be repaid. Payments will start on January 1, 2023, and the full amount must be repaid by December 31, 2025.
Are there restrictions on how I can use the Atlantic Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) funds?
Eligible costs will be determined on a case-by-case basis, and these costs will then be detailed in your contribution agreement.
How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec (CED)?
Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) will distribute a RRRF of $319 million for Quebec.
Who can apply to the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec?
To be eligible, you first must have taken steps to benefit from at least one of these federal measures and kept evidence of rejection:
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Financial measures (working capital) |
Financial measures (payroll) |
The following categories of business / organizations are eligible:
- Businesses
- Co-ops
- Non-profit organizations
- Business support organizations
- Indigenous organizations
Who are:
- registered and/or based in Quebec;
- suffering a negative impact due to COVID-19 (i.e., revenue loss, layoffs, cashflow pressure, etc.);
- aware of their support measure applications under the Canada COVID-19 Economic Response Plan having been accepted or refused
Determine which profile best matches your situation:
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Profile One
If this profile matches your circumstances, and you meet all the previous eligibility requirements, you can complete an application for financial support. |
Profile Two
If this profile matches your circumstances and:
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If you’re not sure which profile best suits you, please call 1-800-561-0633 to speak with a CED advisor. You can also check your pre-eligibility using CED’s questionnaire.
What is the maximum amount I can receive from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec?
Financial aid will generally not exceed $60,000. However, SMEs and non-profits in the manufacturing sector, or other value-added services, may qualify for more than $60,000. Amounts will be determined based on need and will have different repayment terms.
What are the eligible costs that can be requested for assistance from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec?
The funding can be used to stabilize SMEs and non-profit organizations, and to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.
Eligible costs include:
- Equipment and machinery rental or leasing
- Wages and benefits
- Property taxes
- Professional fees
- Insurance
- Other fixed overhead costs and one-time stabilization costs
When can I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec?
Applications are being accepted now and can be made through the CED’s website.
How do I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Quebec?
- Complete:
- the online Request for financial assistance RRRF (once opened you have 12 hours to complete it, you cannot save the form for later)
- Prepare all supporting documents:
- Evidence of rejection from any federal emergency measures
- Financial statements for the last year and the most recent interim
- Recent statement from your financial institution
- Void cheque or direct deposit validated by your Canadian financial institution
- Copy of the delegation instruments (if applicable)
- Formal or informal notice indicating that the customer could be or is in violation of an environmental law or regulation (if applicable)
Once the form is completed and before submitting it, print a copy for your records. You cannot access the form once submitted but a confirmation will be sent to you.
For any question about the RRRF request form, please call 1-800-561-0633.
Technical tip: use Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari as your browser when completing your application. Internet explorer is no longer supported by Microsoft and could lead to compatibility and security issues.
Are there restrictions on how I can use the money from the RRRF in Quebec?
The funding must be used to address immediate financial pressures caused by COVID-19. Some costs, such as debt principal repayment and expenses covered by other programs, are ineligible.
Where can I get help for the Quebec Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
Please call 1-800-561-0633 or email [email protected].
Is the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) repayable in Quebec?
Businesses looking for less than $60,000:
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For businesses looking for more than $60,000:
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How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario (FedDev)?
In Southern Ontario, the regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) will be administered by FedDev Ontario.
If you are a rural business seeking $60,000 or less in support, you are encouraged to apply for RRRF support through your local Community Futures.
Who can apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario?
In order to access the RRRF, you must either be:
- disqualified from accessing federal relief measures
- or have applied to the federal relief measures and been declined
- located or operating in Southern Ontario
The following for profit businesses, organizations and not-for profit organizations are eligible:
For profit business / organization with 1 to 499 full-time equivalent employees:
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Not-for-profit organizations / social enterprise:
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In addition, businesses must:
- have been operational prior to March 15, 2020;
- have an active business chequing / operating account;
- be facing funding pressures with fixed operating costs due to COVID-19;
- have been viable before the pandemic, and plan to continue or resume operations; and
- have already applied to the federal government’s emergency credit relief measures for which they are eligible.
How much money can I get from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario?
The loan amount will be determined based on:
- The funding option selected
- Eligible operating costs
- Whether any other federal relief measures have been accessed, and in what amounts
- Applicant’s ability to repay the loan
There are two funding options available:
| Option 1: Up to $60,000 in a conditionally repayable contribution (interest-free loan)
If you receive $40,000 or less:
If you received more than $40,000 and up to $60,000: Forgiveness is based on these thresholds:
Repayment:
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Option 2: Up to $1,000,000 unconditionally repayable contribution (interest-free loan)
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When can I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario?
Applications are open now.
How do I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario?
Applications can be made using the application form. It is strongly recommended to consult the program guidelines and the frequently asked questions before completing your application.
If you have questions, please contact FedDev at 1-866-593-5505.
| Applicant toolkit | Applicant checklist |
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Note: All the above documentation is required for the application to be considered complete. Need help downloading the application? See the instructions in the Application Guide. |
Are there restrictions on how I can use the money from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Southern Ontario?
Yes, there are restrictions on how you can use loan funds from the RRRF.
It cannot be used for:
- Monthly mortgage and loan payments;
- New capital expenditures;
- Refinancing of existing debt;
- Costs of amortization or goodwill;
- Purchase of land or buildings; or
- Any costs deemed not reasonable or not directly related to a business’ fixed operational expenses.
I’m a rural business, can I apply to the RRRF in Southern Ontario?
If you are a rural business seeking $40,000 or less in support, you are encouraged to apply for RRRF support through your local Community Futures.
How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
In Northern Ontario, the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund will be administered by FedNor Ontario.
How much money can I get from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
- The maximum amount is $500,000.
- SMEs will receive repayable or conditionally repayable loans.
- Non-profit organizations will receive non-repayable loans.
Who can apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
In order to access the RRRF, you must:
- Be located or operating in Northern Ontario;
- Be disqualified from accessing federal COVID-19 relief measures; or
- have applied to the federal relief measures and been declined; or
- can demonstrate the need for more financial support or funding than was received from other programs
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Eligible applicants: Not-for-profit organizations / social enterprise:
For profit business / organization:
who must:
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Ineligible applicants:
Businesses in these sectors should contact Community Futures Development Corporation in Northern Ontario
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When can I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
The application period opened on May 13, 2020 and will remain open until all the funds are allocated.
How do I apply for the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
The application must be made online using the Financial Assistance Form. Before you submit your application, we recommend that you read the Applicant Guide.
If you have difficulty submitting your application, please call 1-877-333-6673 or contact a FedNor officer.
Are there restrictions on how I can use the money from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor)?
Yes, eligible costs are retroactive to March 15, 2020. Any costs incurred before March 15, 2020 are ineligible.
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Eligible costs include:
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Ineligible costs include:
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Is the money from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Northern Ontario (FedNor) repayable?
Loans to SMEs will be repayable, or conditionally repayable, with no interest or security required.
- Payments will be made in installments over a maximum of 5 years from the date the first payment was issued.
- A payment moratorium is available until December 31, 2022; however
- SMES that receive $40,000 or less, and who repay at least 75% before December 31, 2022, will have the remaining 25% (up to $10,000) forgiven.
- SMEs who receive between $40,000 and $60,000 will have up to an extra $10,000 forgiven, if the total non-forgivable portion is repaid by December 31, 2022.
- The full balance must be paid by December 31, 2025
- Loans to non-profit organizations are non-repayable.
How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund in Western Canada (Western Economic Diversification Canada)?
The RRRF will be provided in four different ways:
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A loan of up to $60, 000 for rural businesses |
A loan of up to $60, 000 for women-owned or women-led businesses |
A loan of up to $60, 000 for all other small and medium sized businesses |
Funding over $60, 000 |
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A loan up to $60,000 for businesses:
Repayment of 75% of the contribution before December 31, 2022 will result in forgiveness of 25% (up to $10,000). |
A loan greater than $60,000 and up to a maximum of $1,000,000 for businesses:
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Who is eligible for the Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
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RRRF up to $60,000 Eligible businesses who:
Examples of businesses that are eligible to apply are:
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RRRF over $60,000 Eligible businesses who:
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To quickly determine if you are eligible for the loan program visit the RRRF Eligibility Assistant.
How do I apply for the Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
The application process is the same for both loan amounts. Only one application can be submitted per business.
- You must apply for the Canada Emergency Business Account.
- If you are not eligible for the Canada Emergency Business Account and you are in an area serviced by a Community Futures Organization, you must apply to the Community Futures Emergency Loan Program
- If you do not meet the criteria of either above programs:
- If applying for funding up to $40,000 attach the below items to your completed Regional Relief and Recovery Fund application
- Void cheque or direct deposit form validated from your bank
- If applying for funding over $40,000 attach to your Regional Relief and Recovery Fund application:
- Financial statements for the past 2 years
- Estimated 2020 cash flow needs from April 1, 2020, to September 30, 2020
- Void cheque or direct deposit form validated from your bank
- Receive and print your confirmation message with your Reference #
- You will be notified by email with a decision on your application
At the end of your Contribution Agreement, you will be required to submit a final report that includes:
- Number of jobs maintained, thanks to RRRF
- Confirmation that the business is continuing its operations
- Any other metrics requested by WD
- Recipient’s financial statements (at the request of WD)
Check out the guide
How will I receive the Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
- Up to $60,000: If your application is approved, you will be asked to review and accept a Contribution Agreement before a single payment is provided to you.
- Over $60,000: If your application is approved, you will be asked to review and accept a Contribution Agreement before your funds will be disbursed. This may include advance payments.
In Western Canada can I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) and other Government COVID-19 relief programs?
This will depend on the relief program.
- Businesses who have received the Canada Emergency Business Account (aka CEBA/40K loans) or the Community Futures Emergency Loan Program will not be eligible for the $40,000 RRRF.
- Businesses that have received support from other Government of Canada relief funding measures but require additional funding to mitigate liquidity pressures may still apply.
This includes:- Business Development Bank of Canada's Co-Lending Program
- Working Capital Loan
- Oil and Gas Sector Capital Loan
- Export Development Canada's Business Credit Availability Program
What are the repayment terms for the Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
The repayment terms are different if you have received a loan of up to $40, 000 or over $40, 000:
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Up to $60,000:
Between $40,000 and $60,000: If you repay the outstanding balance by December 31, 2022, the following percentage will be forgiven:
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Over $60,000:
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What can I do If I am having issues with my application for the Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF)?
- Check that you are eligible
- Check that your application is not missing any mandatory information or documentation
- Ensure that you have only submitted one RRRF application
- Contact the WD at 1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Who can I contact if I need help with my Western Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) application or don’t know if the program is for me?
Please contact your Western Economic Diversification Canada Office at 1-888-338-WEST (9378)
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Vancouver (BC) |
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Calgary (AB) |
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Edmonton (AB) |
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Saskatoon (SK) |
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Winnipeg (MB) |
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How do I access the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) in Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut - Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)?
In the territories, the RRRF provides support in key sectors including, but not limited to, tourism, fisheries, the mining supply chain, local food production and processing, regional innovation ecosystems and community infrastructure, as well as support to Community Futures Networks in Nunavut, Northwest Territories and relevant stakeholders in Yukon.
There are three ways to receive funding:
- NBRF - CanNor’s Northern Business Relief Fund - non-repayable grant
- Targeted relief and stabilization measures for key sectors
- Community Futures Network - More information to come soon
How much money can I get from the Northern Business Relief Fund (NBRF)? What can I use the NBRF for?
The NBRF amounts available will vary on the SME’s eligible fixed operating costs.
This amount:
- Ranges from $2,500 to $100,000
- will be covered at 100% in the form of a non-repayable grant
Any amount claimed that would allow a recipient to generate profit will make the SME ineligible to NBRF.
Who is eligible for the Northern Business Relief Fund (NBRF)?
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Eligible registered northern-based business:
Who must:
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Not eligible:
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What can I use the Northern Business Relief Fund (NBRF) for? What are eligible/ineligible fixed operating costs covered by NBRF?
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Eligible fixed operating costs include:
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Ineligible fixed operating costs:
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How do I apply to the Northern Business Relief Fund (NBRF)? What is the NBRF process?
Note: NBRF is no longer accepting new applications; however, additional support is being extended to current recipients of the NBRF.
When Applying provide:
- Complete Application-Agreement form
- Direct Deposit Form
- Detailed General Ledger (March-June 2019) OR Monthly invoices for the eligible fixed costs of the months for which they are being claimed.
- 2019 Income Statement or General Ledger Summary for the year 2019
- Articles of incorporation
- Lease/mortgage agreement for commercial space (if applicable)
- Franchise agreement (if applicable)
At the end of the agreement
- Income Statement or General Ledger for agreement period (April-July 2020)
- Copy of all invoices for fixed costs claimed for the entire agreement period
- Copy of agreement and payments received from any other federal, territorial, municipal or other COVID-19 relief program including (CEWS, EI Work sharing program, Government of Nunavut Small Business Support Program, Government of Yukon SME Relief Program)
What should I do if I cannot access the online forms for the Northern Business Relief Fund (NBRF)?
E-mail CanNor at [email protected] to obtain a copy.
How do I contact the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)?
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Nunavut Regional Office |
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Northwest Territories Regional Office |
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Yukon Regional Office |
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Other RRRF resources
Our primary concern at CFIB is making sure you have the support you need to get through this uncertain and challenging time. We provide you with expert advice and ensure that you have all of the latest information on government announcements and available support.