The Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce is getting some financial help from the federal government.

They’re receiving over $82,000 through the recently announced Shop Local Investment.

The government of Canada is allocating $33 million for the program, aimed at helping small businesses across the country recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This funding demonstrates that the Federal government understands the value of supporting local,” said Dianna de Sousa, Executive Director of the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce.

The YMM Chamber plans on using the funds to support multiple shop-local initiatives which includes the development of a new e-commerce sales platform.

“Awareness and community investment will have a significant role to play as Fort McMurray businesses set their sights on recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic,” added de Sousa.

They’ve also applied for more funding which is currently being processed.