Government of Canada delivers vital support to 49 South Simcoe businesses through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund

Restaurant connoisseurs in New Tecumseth are very familiar with Indian Flames. Local entrepreneur, Clyde Almeida created an authentic experience for customers looking for true Indian Cuisine. Kevin Thompson worked closely with Almeida to ensure the restaurant’s success and together with his wife, Michelle Joyce, took over the successful eatery in the Spring of 2020. The new corporation was called Indian Flames Bar and Grill Copper Bowl Inc.

The transition of a successful business to new ownership always presents challenges, but to do so during a pandemic brings it to another level. Provincial lockdowns caused the closure of the dining room, greatly impacting their revenue. Kevin and Michelle had to pivot and adapt quickly. They moved their operation to take out and created a retail space in the empty half of the restaurant. When the restrictions eased in June, they also built a patio space to serve patrons on site. To meet the costs incurred with these transitions, Indian Flames and Copper Bowl Inc. took advantage of the CEBA-like Loan being offered by the Federal Development Agency of Southern Ontario through Nottawasaga Futures Community Development Corporation (NCFDC). The funds were used to help pay rent, utilities, salaries, professional fees, and additional supplies of PPE. Kevin and Michelle continue to operate a successful business and look forward to continued growth.

NCFDC began delivering targeted CEBA-like Loan support to businesses in South Simcoe in June 2021. By early July 2021, NCFDC had distributed $120,000 throughout the South Simcoe community. In addition to Indian Flames and Copper Bowl Inc., these funds assisted five other businesses. The funds were used to cover operational costs and maintained 8.5 jobs. This assistance is making a difference in South Simcoe by providing businesses with the support they need to navigate the uncertainty caused by the pandemic while finding ways to grow for the future.