As part of our commitment to support communities in their recovery from the 2024 Alberta Wildfires, we are pleased to share important information from the Canadian Red Cross.

The Canadian Red Cross has launched the Support to Small Businesses and Not-for-Profits Program. 

This program, thanks to the generosity of donors as well as matching funds from the Government of Alberta, provides financial assistance to eligible small businesses and not-for-profit organizations that experienced impacts due to the 2024 Alberta Wildfires that led to the evacuation of Jasper National Park and the closure of Highway 16.   

Small businesses and not-for-profits located in Jasper National Park, including the town of Jasper and businesses located along Highway 16 that were completely closed may be eligible to receive $2,000 in financial assistance. 

Additionally, small businesses and not-for-profits located in Hinton and communities along Highway 16, up to the Alberta/BC border (including Valemount, BC), that were not evacuated, were able to continue operating but have experienced some impact due to the wildfires, may be eligible for $1,000 in financial assistance. 

Applications are now open and will be accepted until December 13, 2024. 

Full program details, including eligibility criteria and application instructions, are available at:

 www.redcross.ca/albertawildfires/smallbusiness 

EDA has a longstanding history of working with the Canadian Red Cross to support communities in their recovery from disasters. 

Since 2013, our Economic Disaster Recovery Program has provided critical assistance to help local economies rebuild and thrive after major events.

Our most recent collaboration also includes key government partners, and EDA members in the Jasper, Hinton, Edson, Yellowhead County region to support regional business and economic recovery efforts.  

Our Business Recovery Survey is designed to gather essential feedback from businesses to guide recovery efforts and ensure support reaches those who need it most.