We have all seen the devastating effects that COVID-19 has had on our small business sector. If you are a part of this vital community, take a few minutes to review some resources that may help you navigate this confusing and sometimes harrowing time.
In addition to providing unlimited information to us on the internet, Google has pledged to donate over $800 million to support small businesses during this crisis.
Their commitment to small businesses includes:
- $200 million in an investment fund that will support financial institutions in providing small businesses with access to capital. If you are a nonprofit, there is an additional $15 million in cash grants being provided by Google to help you sustain your business during this time of uncertainty.
- Already an active Google Ads member? You are in luck! They are offering $340 million in Google Ads credits to those with active accounts over the last year. Keep an eye out for credit notifications to appear in your account. These credits are available for use until December 31, 2020.
Check out the full list of what they are doing to help serve our business community here.
America’s Small Business Development Center
America’s SBDC represents a nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), and is providing a multitude of support for those dealing with the challenges of COVID-19. They include:
- Webinars on managing your cash flow during this crisis, national resources available, policy updates for small businesses, and practical advice such as “How to Keep the Lights On”.
- An SBA Coronavirus Pandemic Loan Comparisons Guide that includes eligibility criteria, maximum loan amounts, and interest rates
- Tax relief resources for small businesses
- CDC Guidelines for small businesses
Contact your local SBDC for even more resources tailored to your geographical area.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has provided a Coronavirus Small Business Guide with daily updated information on available resources.
- A state by state guide to Coronavirus assistance such as relief organizations, emergency loans, paycheck protection loans, and local assistance programs
- Strategies on how to change your business plan to adapt to the crisis
- Information on employee retention tax credits that you may be eligible for
- A collection of stimulus aid and SBA resource guides you might find beneficial to keep your business afloat.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC offers more than just guidelines and tips for staying healthy. They have created resources dedicated to assist small businesses to find the most effective ways to protect themselves and their employees during this outbreak. These include:
- Cleaning and disinfecting recommendations
- How to handle possible exposure of essential employees
- An interim guide for small businesses to properly respond to the virus, which includes updated cleaning and social distancing guidelines
- OSHA guidelines on how to prepare your workplace if you are able to remain open
This site offers a comprehensive list of resources and guidelines to help you support both your small business, as well as your family at home.
Although this time in our nation’s history is uncertain, we have the resiliency to overcome this challenge and rebound from the hardships we are facing now. Small businesses are the heart of our communities, and you are encouraged to reach out and take advantage of these resources.