Support for Small Business: Board of Trade Announces Return of Wage Support Program

St. John’s, NL – The Board of Trade, in partnership with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, is pleased to announce that the Newfoundland and Labrador Wage Support Program has returned for 2025 and is now accepting applications. Eligibility requirements and the application form are now available at NLWageSupport.ca.

This initiative is designed to support small-and medium-sized businesses as they navigate the challenges of rising operational costs—particularly in light of the recent minimum wage increase. Over $2,500,000 is being provided by the Provincial Government, through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Labour Market Development Agreement, to offer financial assistance to approximately 600 businesses in the province.

Businesses across the province with fewer than 100 employees that had at least one employee paid at the minimum wage rate between April 1st, 2024, and March 31st, 2025, are eligible to receive a one-time payment of $2,500 to $7,500 through the Newfoundland and Labrador Wage Support Program.

“The Minimum Wage Support program was a lifeline for our business and helped us navigate rising costs. It allowed us to manage the increase in wages without reducing hours or making difficult staffing decisions and that support helped us stay focused on running our business and supporting our team.” – Angellette Del Carmen, Owner/Manager, Gian’s Kitchen

“Our government is pleased to support local businesses through the Wage Support Program again this year. We must continue to maintain a minimum wage that supports employees while working with employers to balance the challenge of rising business costs. I encourage all eligible businesses to apply to take advantage of this program.” – Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister of Labour.

“We’re pleased to see the Wage Support Program return this year. This kind of support allows local businesses to keep doing what they do best—creating jobs, strengthening communities, and driving our economy. Programs like this really make a difference and we are here to support our members during this program rollout and beyond." – AnnMarie Boudreau, CEO of the Board of Trade

For more information, or for help navigating the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out info@nlwagesupport.ca.

Media Contact:
Shanelle Clowe-Hillier
Manager of Communications
709-325-1040
sclowe@bot.nf.ca