Relief measures for businesses

COVID-19

Relief measures for businesses

We know what a huge impact COVID-19 is having on businesses. It's making it tough to stay open, make payroll and keep cash on hand.

During these uncertain times, Desjardins Business and Desjardins Capital are here for you.

Our support includes customized solutions

Because each situation is unique, a needs analysis is done on a case-by-case basis. Based on the results, other measures may be offered.

The federal government is also offering interest-free loans of up to $60,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits.

Coordination with government programs

We're working closely with the federal and provincial governments to provide additional solutions and support during this challenging time. If you need more information, reach out to your account manager. They can work with you to find the right solution for your needs.

See all business support programs offered by the Government of Canada

See all support programs offered by the Government of Quebec

Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA)

Ended on June 30, 2021, this federal program provided interest-free loans of up to $60,000 to small businesses and not-for-profits experiencing temporary financial hardship to help cover their operating costs.

Learn more about the program on the Canada Emergency Business Account site - External link. This link will open in a new window..

Correcting a loan request

Businesses that have submitted a loan request with an incorrect business number can correct it before September 10, 2021.

Complete the correction form - 

Track the status of an application made before June 30, 2021

Applications sent before the deadline are currently under review by the government. Note that processing and correction times may extend until the end of summer 2021.

You can view the status of your application on the Government of Canada's website - External link. This link will open in a new window. or contact the CEBA Call Centre at 1-888-324-4201. The CEBA Call Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 9 PM ET.

Loan and repayment terms

  • Interest-free until December 31, 2022, with no principal payments required
  • If the loan is reimbursed no later than December 31, 2022, you can benefit from the following terms and conditions:
    • Total loan of $60,000
      • No interest to pay
      • Amount to repay: $40,000
      • Amount of incentive: $20,000
    • Loan of $40,000
      • No interest to pay
      • Amount to repay: $30,000
      • Amount of incentive: $10,000
  • If there's still a balance to pay on January 1, 2023:
    • You can set up a 3-year repayment term (principal + interest) or keep the loan with a 5% interest rate
  • The loan must be repaid by December 31, 2025

Loan guarantees for SMEs

The following support programs are for businesses experiencing temporary financial difficulty due to COVID-19. If you need access to cash to fund your operations or increase your working capital, we can help you figure out which program is best for you.

BDC credit program for businesses heavily impacted by COVID-19 – guaranteed loans

  • Low-interest loans of $25,000 to $1 million
  • 100% guaranteed by BDC
  • Accessible to small and medium-sized businesses that have seen their revenues decrease by 50% for at least 3 months
  • Competitive interest rate

To apply, contact your account manager.

Learn more - on the credit program - External link. This link will open in a new window.

Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) with Export Development Canada – Guarantee

  • Flexible financing amount
  • Simplified application process

To apply, contact your account manager.

Learn more - about the Business Credit Availability Program - External link. This link will open in a new window.

Concerted Temporary Action Program for Businesses with Investissement Québec – Guarantee

To apply, contact your account manager.

BDC Co-Lending Program

  • Maximum financing amount based on your business revenues
  • Loan conditions tailored to your needs

To apply, contact your account manager.

Learn more - about the BDC Co-Lending Program - External link. This link will open in a new window.

Exclusive partnerships

We know that the current situation and the return to work of your employees raises concerns regarding your business. That's why we called upon partners to give you exclusive offers and preferred rates.

Contact us

Contact your account manager or call us toll-free at from anywhere in Canada or the US.

Or have us call you at the time of your choice.

Have us call you

Our teams are experiencing a high volume of calls. We'll do our best to answer you as soon as possible.