---
title: "Relief funds help HELIXers during COVID-19"
type: "article"
space: "Advancement"
author: "Anonymous"
created: 2020-11-11T15:10:36Z
updated: 2021-06-28T20:46:20Z
tags: ["covid-19-relief", "giving-back", "helix", "major-gifts"]
url: "https://employees.senecapolytechnic.ca/spaces/57/advancement/articles/news/6704/relief-funds-help-helixers-during-covid-19"
---

# Relief funds help HELIXers during COVID-19

*Photo: Paulo Meneghel from EMERGE Network Solutions is one of 22 HELIXers receiving support.*

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many business-owners — including those just getting started. But some HELIXers in the ACCELERATION Strand are getting a helping hand in their entrepreneurial and startup journeys thanks to the [HELIX Emergency Relief Fund](https://www.senecacollege.ca/news-and-events/seneca-news/relief-fund-to-benefit-helixers-at-seneca.html) and the [CIBC Innovators Fund](https://www.senecacollege.ca/support/donor-community/giving-back-stories/2020-stories/helixers-get-financial-aid-from-cibc-innovators-fund.html).

Nurjahan Begum is one of 22 HELIXers who will be receiving support in the amount of $2,000 to help the business she co-founded, Progoti. Her venture offers products at cost and also partners with customers to directly support seamers and seamstresses in Bangladesh through a voluntary contribution towards their retirement program.

“This support helped us design a photo shoot for our new product line which will enhance our marketing materials and refresh our website,” Ms. Begum said. “The funding is also providing relief toward some of our operational expenses. We very much appreciate the support during this difficult time.”

[Read the full story](https://www.senecacollege.ca/support/donor-community/giving-back-stories/2020-stories/relief-funds-help-helixers-during-covid-19.html)