A business fund for Metis owned microbusinesses and community owned businesses has had some money added to the pot.

The SaskMetis Economic Development Corporation’s Community COVID Business Fund, in partnership with Indigenous Services Canada has been replenished with $5.9-million available.

This non-repayable funding is to relieve financial pressures and allow these businesses to strengthen and recover from the pandemic.

SMEDCO says the funds are intended to fill the gaps of other federal business support programs in response to the pandemic.

Chair of SMEDCO and Metis Nation-Saskatchewan President, Glen McCallum, says last year’s funds were fully allocated within a few months of receiving them and now they are able to further support Metis community development corporations, and businesses such as commercial fishers, artisans, musicians, and home-based businesses.

SMEDCO has been the economic development hub for the MN-S since 1987.