KCGM, Saracen Mineral Holdings, Northern Star Resources and the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KBCCI) have partnered to provide urgent relief to Kalgoorlie-Boulder small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
$300 000 is available as part of the Small Business Support Grants, with eligible Kalgoorlie-Boulder businesses receiving up to $10,000 to alleviate immediate financial pressures and business costs, including utilities, salaries and rent, and to stimulate future recovery.
Grants will be available for local businesses with a physical presence in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, who have been in business for 12 months or longer and who have been heavily impacted or forced to close due to COVID-19.
KBCCI Chief Executive Officer Simone de Been said she is grateful for the support provided by KCGM, Saracen and Northern Star.
“After speaking to the business community, we know many businesses are struggling financially and in need of an immediate cash injection.
“This will be a great way to assist these businesses who are in desperate need of a lifeline,” Ms de Been said.
“This is a fantastic initiative and shows the support and commitment these mining companies have for our business community.”
KCGM General Manager Kous Kirsten said they understand the importance of local jobs and opportunities provided by small businesses in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
“Local businesses, particularly the service, hospitality, and retail sectors, are essential to the social fabric and liveability of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and they have been significantly impacted in recent times,” Mr Kirsten said.
“This program aims to provide immediate support to our small business community, and assistance to reopen and recover in coming months.”
“In collaboration with the KBCCI and our joint venture owners Saracen and Northern Star, KCGM is proud to be able to support local businesses in a significant way through the Small Business Support Grants program,” he concluded.
The grants will be open until the 8th of May. Full eligibility criteria for businesses can be found on the KBCCI website.
Find out how Australia’s gold industry is protecting its workers, their families and the wider public during the COVID-19 pandemic.