The federal government has announced a new subsidy program for Canadian businesses as the country moves to tighten travel restrictions to cope with second wave of COVID-19. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the launching of the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP) during a press conference on Jan. 26. “Through HASCAP, Canadian-based businesses that have been hardest hit by the pandemic will be able to receive low-interest loans up to $1 million,” Trudeau said. “These are 100 percent Government of Canada-backed loans and can be used for rent, utilities, and help with pay roll.” Chains of hotels or restaurants with multiple locations under one related entity, could be eligible for up to $6.25 million, according to a statement from Mary Ng, the Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade. To be eligible for HASCAP, businesses need to show a year-over-year revenue decline of at least 50 percent …