To help our fellow small businesses meet the challenges caused by the impact of the novel coronavirus/COVID-19, we’ve created (and will continually update) this post to share the latest available resources and support options you may find relevant to your business operations.
As of December 27, 2020, Congress has approved additional funds for the PPP. Fundbox is no longer accepting PPP applications, however, the SBA can help you find a PPP lender.
Nationwide Support for
Small Business
U.S. Congress: Families First Coronavirus Response Act
This bill responds to the coronavirus outbreak by providing paid sick leave and free coronavirus testing, expanding food assistance and unemployment benefits, and requiring employers to provide additional protections for health care workers.
SBA: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources From the Small Business Administration (SBA) come these guidelines for businesses and employers to plan and respond to novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Guidance for Businesses and Employers to Plan and Respond to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Resources to Help Your Small Business Survive
If your business is struggling financially due to the coronavirus, here are some resources that can help.
IRS: Coronavirus Tax Relief
The IRS has established a special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus. This page will be updated as new information is available.
Protections for Renters (Including Small Businesses)
If you’re having trouble making rent payments or facing eviction as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and you are renting from an owner who has a federally insured or Government Sponsored Entity (GSE)-backed mortgage (such as Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac), you cannot be evicted for nonpayment of rent between March 27 and July 24, 2020, due to the CARES Act.
Alternatives to SBA Loans
Nav Small Business Grant The small business credit and financing organization Nav is offering a grant program, giving away over $10,000 every quarter to 3 small businesses that submit entries. This quarter’s round of applications closes on May 30th. Requires Nav membership (available free).
MainVest (Invest in Main Street) Main Street Initiative may provide a zero-interest cash advance (funding limit: $2,000) for approved brick-and-mortar businesses seeking future long-term community investment through MainVest’s licensed crowdfunding portal for small businesses.
IRS: Employee Retention Credit for COVID-19
The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service launched the Employee Retention Credit, designed to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll. The refundable tax credit is 50% of up to $10,000 in wages paid by an eligible employer whose business has been financially impacted by COVID-19. The credit is available to all employers regardless of size, including tax-exempt organizations. (Note: this excludes small businesses who take small business loans, such as EIDL or PPP loans.)
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (for Self-Employed Individuals)
The U.S. Department of Labor outlined new eligibility criteria for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). This program provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits, ending on or before December 31, 2020. This program covers individuals who are self-employed, seeking part-time employment (such as gig workers), or whom otherwise would not qualify for regular unemployment benefits under state or federal law.
26 U.S. Code § 139 | Employer-Provided Disaster Relief Benefits
Section 139 provides that qualified disaster relief payments from any source reimbursing or paying an individual for certain expenses in connection with a qualified disaster are not subject to income or employment taxes (Social Security, Medicare and federal unemployment taxes).
State-by-State Support
for Small Business
The following is a list of state or city sponsored coronavirus-related relief programs for small businesses, last updated on May 1, 2020. For the most current resources, see the National Governors Association which maintains the latest updates on national guard activations, restricted travel and other state-specific resources and actions.
Alabama Alabama Department of Revenue. For small businesses unable to pay their state sales taxes due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), penalties will be waived for taxes reported for returns filed for the February, March, and April 2020 reporting periods.
Alabama Department of Labor: Alabama workers who are not able to work due to COVID-19 will be eligible to file for unemployment benefits. Workers can file for benefits online at www.labor.alabama.gov or by calling 1-866-234-5382. Online filing is encouraged.
City of Birmingham Birmingham Strong Emergency Loan Fund provides emergency zero-interest, 180-day loans to small businesses (less than 50 employees) of no more than $25,000 (with an average loan size of $10,000) to (a) prevent staff reductions; (b) offset losses related to the Coronavirus; and (c) help companies sponsor sick pay for workers.
The Community Foundation of West Alabama
The Small Business Relief Fund is available to small businesses located in one of the following counties in West Alabama: Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, or Tuscaloosa.
TruFund Financial Services Small Business Lending through TruFund provides financing and business services to small businesses that cannot access affordable financing through traditional sources. (Applicable to: Alabama, New York, and Louisiana.)
Alaska Alaska Division of Economic Development Small Business Economic Development Program eligibility includes all communities in the state of Alaska with a population of less than 30,000. Loans in communities of 30,000 or more are available on a limited basis, depending on funds availability.
Rural Development Initiative Fund makes loans available to a business located in a community with a population of 5,000 or less that is not connected by road or rail to Anchorage or Fairbanks, or with a population of 2,000 or less that is connected by road or rail to Anchorage or Fairbanks. A $150 nonrefundable application fee must be submitted with the completed application.
Alaska Division of Economic Development Microloan Loan Program promotes economic development in Alaska by helping small businesses access needed capital. Loans may be made for working capital, equipment, construction or other commercial purposes for a business located in Alaska.A $100 nonrefundable application fee must be submitted with the completed application.
Arizona Arizona Department of Economic Security: Unemployment Insurance. Governor Doug Ducey increased access to unemployment benefits. These resources are applied retroactively to hardships experienced after March 11, 2020.
Arizona Community Foundation Arizona COVID-19 Community Response Fund. The Fund will support nonprofit organizations across the state as they respond to the impact of COVID-19 within our community. Flagstaff Arts Council Art & Science Grant Fund Committee. If you are an art, science, and culture non-profit that is impacted by a closure or acute revenue loss associated with COVID-19 and believe an emergency grant would help avert an immediate fiscal crisis, see the contact information for please Executive Director Jonathan Stone.
Arizona Together: AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund. The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund will provide financial support to organizations working to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 in Arizona.
Local First Arizona Small Business Relief Fund. Local First Arizona and its community partners are launching a fund to provide mini-grants to Arizona’s smallest, locally owned, independent enterprises. These micro-entrepreneurs—-businesses with 0-3 employees and less than $250,000 in annual revenue (approximately $35k-$45k in net profits)—need immediate assistance to sustain the impact from decreased business and cash flow caused by the shut down of our economy.
Growth Partners Arizona Small Business Success Loans can help your business during the loan term to develop effective financial and other business practices so your business can grow. When you borrow from GPAz and pay the loan back on time, you improve the credit history of your business, making it easier in the future to borrow from a bank. And, you also “pay it forward” by making our loan funds available for other borrowers.
Growth Partners Arizona Nonprofit Financing supports 1) program expansion, 2) social enterprises, and 3) cash flow gaps while nonprofits await, for example: donations, membership/subscription fees, conclusion of major fundraising campaigns, grants or other reimbursements.
Community Investment Corporation Disaster Relief Microloan. Community Investment Corporation has created an emergency microloan fund to support southern Arizona businesses that are affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. This program is designed to help bridge current and impending cash flow for small businesses as the details for a government stimulus package and qualifications for assistance are finalized.
Invest Southwest and LeadMD AZ Local Impact Fund have joined forces to launch the AZ Local Impact Fund, created in response to COVID-19. The relief fund aims to provide financial support to small businesses and those they employ in order to preserve the local economy and inject much-needed financial support during this challenging time.
Community Foundation for Southern Arizona CFSA’s COVID-19 Community Support Fund. Funds will be distributed to nonprofit organizations serving Arizona’s most vulnerable with a focus on providing basic human needs and access to healthcare to affected populations, including low-income individuals, residents without access to healthcare, older adults, health care workers, first responders, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled residents and communities of color. Funds may be available for other populations and needs as they emerge.
Community Foundation for Southern Arizona COVID-19 Nonprofit Event Relief Fund provides a one-time grant award to organizations that, due to COVID-19, have had to cancel critical fundraising events and programming, resulting in a significant hardship on the organization. This general operating support grant can replace lost revenue and non-recoverable expenses.
Arkansas Arkansas Economic Development Commission’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) will make up to $12 million in CDBG assistance available for COVID19 relief and recovery. Email: COVID19.businessinfo@arkansasedc.com or phone toll-free: 1-800-ARKANSAS.
Quick Action Loan Program allocates $4,000,000 from the Governor’s Quick Action Closing Fund and eligible companies may apply for a loan or loan guaranty of up to $250,000. Email: COVID19.businessinfo@arkansasedc.com. Phone: 501-682-1121 or toll-free: 1-800-ARKANSAS.
Arkansas Division of Workforce Services. Provides alternatives for employers faced with a reduction in their workforce to help prevent layoffs and allows employees to receive a portion of their unemployment benefits while working reduced hours.
California
Employment Development Department (CA)
Disability Insurance Claims may provide DI if you’re unable to work due to having or being exposed to COVID-19.
Paid Family Leave Claims may provide up to six weeks of benefit payments to eligible workers who have a full or partial loss of wages because they need time off work to care for a seriously ill family member or to bond with a new child.
Payroll Tax Deadline Extension: employers experiencing a hardship as a result of COVID-19 may request up to a 60-day filing extension without penalty or interest. Call toll-free from the U.S. or Canada: 1-888-745-3886.
California State Treasurer’s Office, California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) encourages banks and other financial institutions to make loans to small businesses that have difficulty obtaining financing. If you own a small business and need a loan for start-up, expansion or working capital, you may receive more favorable loan terms from a lender if your loan is enrolled in the CalCAP Loan Loss Reserve Program. This program helps communities by providing financing to businesses that create jobs and improve the economy. Loans are available up to $5 million. CalCAP is a loan loss reserve program which may provide up to 100% coverage on losses as a result of certain loan defaults. With CalCAP portfolio support, a lender may be more comfortable underwriting small business loans.
California Disaster Relief Fund for Undocumented Workers. Governor Gavin Newsom announced $125 million in disaster relief assistance for working Californians that will provide financial support to undocumented immigrants impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank
Jump Start Loan Program offers loans up to $10,000 to low-wealth entrepreneurs in the declared disaster and emergency areas.
City of Los Angeles
The City of Los Angeles has established Small Business Emergency Microloan Program for businesses that been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak with loans ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
City of Oakland
The City of Oakland’s Finance Department will waive late payment penalties for small businesses resulting from failure to file taxes due March 1, 2020 on time due to COVID-19. To apply call (510) 238-3704 or email BTwebsupport@oaklandca.gov.
City of Sacramento
Small Business Emergency Economic Relief Loan Program establishes a $1 million economic relief fund for businesses affected by COVID-19. The fund will provide zero-percent interest loans of up to $25,000 per business.
City of San Francisco
The Small Business Relief Program for businesses and employers impacted by COVID-19 went into effect on 3/16/2020. SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans, business tax & fee deferments, and paid sick leave assistance are now available to San Francisco small businesses.
The Small Business Resiliency Fund may provide emergency grants of up to $10,000 for microbusinesses (fewer than 10 employees) that can prove recent loss in revenue.
Deferred Business Taxes and Licensing Fees: The City is deferring collection of annual small business license and permit fees, and for businesses with up to $10M in gross receipts, the City is deferring payment of quarterly business taxes.
County of San Mateo
The county is considering blocking eviction for small businesses in unincorporated San Mateo County who may be unable to pay rent due to the coronavirus, under an urgency ordinance the Board of Supervisors is set to consider soon. The ordinance would take effect immediately if approved. It would apply only to businesses under $2.5 million in annual gross receipts in unincorporated areas of the county.
City of San DiegoSan Diego Small Business Relief Fund is designed to provide grants and forgivable or low- to zero-interest-rate loans to eligible small businesses for working capital. The goal of the SBRF is to help businesses retain employees and sustain continuity of business operations impacted by federal, California, San Diego County and local emergency declarations regarding COVID-19. Approximately $6.1 million is available in the SBRF, which is being administered by the City of San Diego Economic Development Department.
Franchise Tax Board (CA)
Tax Deadline Extension: the FTB is postponing until July 15 the filing and payment deadlines for all individuals and business entities.
California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
Tax Assistance from the CDTFA is available for individuals and businesses impacted by complying with a state or local public health official’s imposition or recommendations related to COVID-19.
California Disaster Relief Fund for Undocumented Workers. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Wednesday $125 million in disaster relief assistance for working Californians that will provide financial support to undocumented immigrants impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
Colorado
City of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity Fund is prioritizing industries most-impacted by the coronavirus pandemic (e.g. restaurants, nail salons, barbershops, home childcare, retail shops) by providing cash grants up to $7,500.
Telluride Regional Loan Fund is available in selective counties and offers capital loans designed for business growth and expansion. Lending is designed to help businesses create a financial base that leads to bridging to commercial lending.
Region 10 Business Loan Fund (BLF) is a lending source that provides capital to small businesses focusing on expansion, creating and retaining jobs, and benefiting our growing regional economy.
Exponential Impact Survive & Thrive COS provides recovery funding in the form of low-interest loans of up to $25,000, mentorship and other resources to support resiliency and continue building healthy businesses. Exponential Impact, in partnership with the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, and various other community partners, businesses, and local investors have teamed up to offer immediate relief services.
ConnecticutState of Connecticut has extended filing deadlines for certain business taxes.
Department of Economic and Community Development: Small Business Express Program provides an array of financing options to fuel your progress, whether you need an equity investment, capital purchase or working capital. This program is applicable to small businesses as long it: 1. employs not more than 100 employees; 2. has operations or will have operations in Connecticut, registered to do business for at least a year, in good standing with payments.
DelawareDelaware Division of Small Business Hospitality Emergency Loan Program (HELP). Provides funds to some of the businesses and nonprofits in the state most significantly impacted by Coronavirus. The Division will make no-interest loans of up to $10,000 per business per month available to eligible businesses in the hospitality industry.
Florida
State of Florida
Businesses are invited to complete the business damage survey as the state works to qualify for a disaster declaration.
Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program now available to small businesses statewide that experienced economic damage as a result of COVID-19, providing short-term, interest-free working capital loans to businesses, up to $50,000 per eligible small businesses with two to 100 employees.
Georgia
City of Atlanta Business Continuity Loan Fund. Invest Atlanta has established a Business Continuity Loan Fund (BCLF) with $1.5 million of funding from the City of Atlanta. The fund will offer small businesses zero-interest loans to address a lack of working capital and cash flows as a result of reduced consumer demand, the ability to fulfill product or service orders and other economic conditions.
Illinois City of Chicago Chicago Small Business Resiliency Fund: Starting March 31, 2020, small businesses in Chicago can apply for low-interest loans of up to $50,000 with repayment terms of up to five years. The amount of the loan you’ll qualify for depends on your revenues before business was affected by the coronavirus. To be eligible you must demonstrate a 25% drop in revenue, have less than $3 million in revenue and fewer than 50 employees, and have no current tax liens or legal judgments.”
Illinois Department of Commerce: Hospitality Emergency Grant Program. With $14 million drawn from funds originally budgeted for job training, tourism promotion, and other purposes are available to support working capital like payroll and rent, as well as job training, retraining, and technology to support shifts in operations, like increased pick-up and delivery. Bars and restaurants with a valid license to serve food or liquor and who generated revenues of less than $1 million in 2019 and hotels with a valid license (hotels, motels other lodging establishments) and who generated revenues of less than $8 million in 2019 eligible. Illinois Department of Commerce: Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program. To support small businesses in downstate and rural counties across Illinois, DCEO is repurposing $20 million in CDBG funds to stand up the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program. This Fund will offer small businesses of up to 50 employees the opportunity to partner with their local governments to obtain grants of up to $25,000 in working capital. These grants will be offered on a rolling basis.
Illinois Department of Commerce: Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund. DCEO and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) are establishing the Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund to offer small businesses low interest loans of up to $50,000. Businesses located outside of the City of Chicago with fewer than 50 workers and less than $3 million in revenue in 2019 will be eligible to apply. Successful applicants will owe nothing for six months and will then begin making fixed payments at a below market interest rate for the remainder of a five-year loan term.
Indiana Indiana Small Business Development Center: SBDC Counseling and Advising. With 10 regional offices throughout the state, it will provide free business advising and application assistance for small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
IowaVoluntary Shared Work Program from Iowa Workforce Development may be a viable option for employers dealing with challenges from COVID-19. The program is intended for use as an alternative to layoffs and can be an effective tool for Iowa businesses experiencing a temporary decline in regular business activity.
Iowa Economic Development: Iowa Small Business Relief Program. This will provide financial assistance to small businesses and tax deferrals to any Iowa businesses that have been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Iowa Economic Development: Targeted Small Business Program. Designed to help women, individuals with minority status, service-connected disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities overcome some of the hurdles to start or grow a small business in Iowa.
KansasDepartment of Commerce: Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE). Kansas allocated $5 million for the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) fund to provide bridge loans to businesses in the hospitality industry. The loans are for up to $20,000 at a 0% rate over a period of 36 months.
Go Topeka HOST Relief Program. HOST is a small business emergency resource fund that was developed by private sector leaders. Individual donations have been raised with the intent of purchasing products or services from Shawnee County businesses. These resources will be distributed to those workers displaced, temporarily or permanently, as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
KentuckyLHome Small Business Continuity Loan Program. The loan program will provide zero-interest loans, with no payments for 12 months, to our smallest businesses (10 full-time employees or fewer) impacted by COVID-19. Small businesses can receive up to $25,000 to cover immediate expenses. Business must be located in Jefferson County, KY.
LouisianaTruFund Financial Services Small Business Lending through TruFund provides financing and business services to small businesses that cannot access affordable financing through traditional sources. (Applicable to: Alabama, New York, and Louisiana.)
Louisiana Department of Revenue: Sales Tax Filing and Payment Extension. Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Louisiana Department of Revenue (LDR) has extended the filing and payment due dates for several state taxes, including Sales Tax until May 20.
Louisiana Economic Development: Small Business Loan and Guaranty Program. The Small Business Loan and Guaranty Program facilitates capital accessibility for small businesses by providing loan guarantees to banks and other small business lenders in association with the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The program’s purpose is to provide financial assistance, which will help with the development, expansion and retention of Louisiana’s small businesses. The program is administered by Louisiana Economic Development through Louisiana Economic Development.
New Orleans Business Alliance: COVID-19 Relief Grant Application. NOLABA is committing $100,000 to initiate the fund, with a goal of increasing the fund assets to a minimum of $500,000. We have issued a charge across the community to encourage business leaders, philanthropy, and concerned New Orleanians to contribute to increase the potential reach and impact of this relief effort.
MaineState of Maine businesses can learn about applying for an SBA economic disaster loan.
COVID-19 Relief Business Direct Loan Program provides FAME Direct Loans of up to $50,000 with special terms available to Maine-based businesses experiencing interruption or hardship due to COVID-19.
Relief Interim SBA Finance LoanProgram provides FAME Direct Loans of up to $100,000 with special terms available to eligible borrowers who provide proof of commitment for SBA financing. Eligible borrowers will provide proof of commitment for SBA financing with the intention the FAME loan would be originated for use to the business owner until such time as SBA loan is funded. The SBA loan would then pay-off the FAME loan.
MarylandTax Deadline Extension to June 1, 2020 for business returns with due dates during the months of March, April and May 2020 for businesses.
Department of Commerce: Maryland Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Loan Fund. The $75M Loan Fund offers working capital to assist Maryland for-profit small businesses disrupted operations due to COVID-19. Loan assistance is intended to provide interim relief complementing actions with its bank, business interruption insurance, and financial partners.
Department of Commerce: Maryland Small Business COVID-19 COVID-19 Emergency Relief. The COVID-19 Emergency Relief $50M Grant Fund offers working capital to assist Maryland small businesses and nonprofits with disrupted operations due to COVID-19.
Maryland Department of Labor: COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund. The COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund is designed to support businesses undergoing economic stresses due to the pandemic by preventing or minimizing the duration of unemployment resulting from layoffs. The award (up to $50,000 per applicant), will be a quick deployable benefit and customizable to the specific needs of your business to minimize the need for layoffs.
County of Allegany: COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Fund. A fund to award grants to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus threat. Titled the COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Fund, the program makes available $2,500 grants to qualifying small businesses with no repayment.
MassachusettsOffice of the Governor: Tax Relief includes postponing the collection of regular sales tax, meals tax, and room occupancy taxes that would be due in March, April and May so that they will instead be due on June 20. Additionally, all penalties and interest that would otherwise apply will be waived.
MichiganMichigan Small Business Relief Program offers small business loans and grants to eligible borrowers suffering from the COVID-19 outbreak. Companies with 50 employees or fewer can qualify for grants, while loans are targeted at companies with 100 employees or fewer that can’t get credit elsewhere. In both cases, businesses must show income loss. Grants will be available in amounts of up to $10,000 to help cover working capital. Loans will be available in amounts from $50,000 to $200,000 at interest rates of 0.25%.
State of Michigan Department of Treasury: Penalty and interest waived for 30 days for monthly sales, use, and withholding tax returns due March 20, 2020. “Ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have disrupted the normal business operations of many sales, use, and withholding taxpayers required to file returns and remit tax by the twentieth day of each month. In recognition of the present challenges faced by these taxpayers, the Department of Treasury is waiving penalty and interest for the late payment of tax or the late filing of the return due on March 20, 2020. The waiver will be effective for a period of 30 days; therefore, any return or payment currently due on March 20, 2020 may be submitted to the Department without penalty or interest through April 20, 2020. The waiver is limited to sales, use, and withholding payments and returns due March 20, 2020. Any payment or return otherwise due after that date will not be eligible for the current waiver. “
MinnesotaSales Tax Payment Extension for Eligible Businesses. The Minnesota Department of Revenue is granting a 30-day Sales and Use Tax grace period for businesses identified in Executive Order 20-04. During this time the department will not assess penalties or interest.
Otto Bremer Trust: Community Benefit Financial Company Emergency Fund. In response to COVID-19, the Otto Bremer Trust (OBT) has established a $50 million emergency fund through its Community Benefit Financial Company (CBFC) subsidiary to provide financial support to Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Montana nonprofits and other community organizations impacted by and responding to the pandemic.
Minnesota Employment and Economic Development: Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loan Program. The Minnesota Small Business Emergency Loan Program is intended to help businesses temporarily closed under Executive Order 20-04, later clarified by Executive Order 20-08, which stopped onsite customer dining at restaurants and bars and closed an extensive list of other small businesses whose owners may not have adequate cash flow to withstand temporary closure.
MissouriDepartment of Labor: Shared Work Unemployment Compensation Program. The Shared Work Unemployment Compensation Program is an alternative to layoffs for employers faced with a reduction in available work. It allows an employer to divide the available work among a specified group of affected employees instead of a layoff. These employees receive a portion of their unemployment benefits while working reduced hours. To participate, an employer must complete an application for the affected unit within the company, and submit it to the Division of Employment Security (DES) for approval.
City of St. Louis/County of St. Louis: Small Business Resource Fund. Businesses are eligible to apply for loans of up to $5,000 for working capital. Any for-profit business in the city of St. Louis or St. Louis County that has sustained economic damage due to the COVID-19 crisis may apply. To obtain a zero-interest loan, businesses must be current on all taxes through 2018, be in good standing with state and local governments, and have been in business for at least one year.
St. Louis Community Foundation: COVID-19 Regional Response Fund. The St. Louis Community Foundation assembled a coalition of local influential organizations to create the COVID-19 Regional Response Fund, which will direct resources to regional nonprofits that are serving local communities disproportionately affected by the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout.
St. Louis Community Foundation: Gateway Resilience Fund. This fund will provide short term monetary relief to employees and owners of independent bars, restaurants, and shops in the St. Louis area affected by closures and other circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 outbreak. The Gateway Resilience Fund makes grants to support employees, essential contractors, and owners of small businesses in the St. Louis region who are experiencing a financial burden due to a disaster or other extreme situation.
Montana
Otto Bremer Trust: Community Benefit Financial Company Emergency Fund. In response to COVID-19, the Otto Bremer Trust (OBT) has established a $50 million emergency fund through its Community Benefit Financial Company (CBFC) subsidiary to provide financial support to Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Montana nonprofits and other community organizations impacted by and responding to the pandemic.
Nevada
Nevada Community Foundation: COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. The Nevada COVID-19 Response, Relief and Recovery Task Force, a recently formed public-private partnership overseen by Gov. Steve Sisolak’s office and the Nevada Health Response Center, will oversee the COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund in partnership with Nevada Community Foundation. The Fund will assist with the State’s response, relief and recovery efforts.
New HampshireNew Hampshire Business Finance Authority: Capital Access Program (CAP). The Capital Access Program is a simple and flexible credit enhancement for small businesses utilized by New Hampshire banks. The CAP program provides support on term loans and lines of credit up to $200,000.00. The program can be used for temporary loans, working capital, equipment purchases and many long term uses.
New Hampshire Employment Security: Workshare Program. WorkShare plans may be submitted by any New Hampshire employer whose taxes are currently up to date and who is in good standing with the NH Department of Labor. They must certify that they are averting layoffs to full time or permanent part-time employees by reducing the number of hours worked between 10% – 50% in a specific class unit.
New JerseyState of New Jersey provides this information for NJ businesses. See also the New Jersey small business services page.
Economic Development Agency: Emergency Business Grants (A3845 Legislation). Authorizes EDA to make grants during periods of emergency declared by Governor and for duration of economic disruptions due to emergency; allows EDA to grant certain business documentation submission deadline extensions, including an economic growth account for business programs, which will invest in small and medium-size businesses.
UPENN/Penn Medicine: PHL COVID-19 Fund. The Fund will accept applications from 501(c)(3) organizations in the Greater Philadelphia/Southern New Jersey region with a successful track record of serving at-risk populations who are experiencing the negative health and economic effects of COVID-19 right now.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority: Micro Business Loan Program. The Micro Business Loan Program makes financing of up to $50,000 available to for-profit businesses legally registered to do business in New Jersey, with a business location in New Jersey (home-based businesses are not eligible), who have annual revenues in the most current fiscal year of no more than $1,500,000, and 10 full-time employees or less at time of application.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority: Small Business Fund. Creditworthy small, minority-owned or women-owned businesses in New Jersey that have been in operation for at least one full year and may not have the ability to get bank financing, or not-for-profit corporations that have been operating for at least three full years, may be eligible for assistance under the Small Business Fund. $300 application fee.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority: Small Business Emergency Assistance Loan. The Small Business Emergency Assistance Loan program is designed to provide a direct loan of up to $100,000 to NJ-based small businesses and nonprofit organizations that have been in existence for at least one-year and have less than $5 million in annual revenue.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority: Small Business Emergency Assistance Guarantee Program. The Small Business Emergency Assistance Program is a $10 million pilot program that makes available one-year first loss guarantees of permanent working capital loans and lines of credit originated by Premier Lender banks. These loans must be made to cover operating expenses for New Jersey small businesses and non-profit organizations that have been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak.
New Jersey Economic Development Authority: Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant. The grant program will provide funding as efficiently and quickly as possible to SMEs that are in need. The focus of this round of funding is on the smallest enterprises in industries that are among the most adversely impacted by the COVID-19 containment measures. The Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program will provide up to $5,000 to NJ-based SMEs that have between 1–10 full time equivalent employees (“FTE”). The grant funding is targeted as unrestricted payroll and working capital support, and cannot be used for any capital expenses, including construction.
New MexicoCOVID-19 Business Loan Guarantee Program assists businesses seeking emergency loans or lines of credit to deal with negative economic impacts from COVID-19. NMEDD can guarantee a portion of a loan or line of credit up to 80% of principal or $50,000 and can be used for (and not limited to) working capital, inventory and payroll.
New YorkTruFund Financial Services Small Business Lending through TruFund provides financing and business services to small businesses that cannot access affordable financing through traditional sources. (Applicable to: Alabama, New York, and Louisiana.)City of New York – Assistance & Guidance for Businesses Impacted Due to Novel Coronavirus may provide relief for small businesses across the City seeing a reduction in revenue because of COVID-19. Businesses with fewer than 100 employees who have seen sales decreases of 25% or more will be eligible for zero interest loans of up to $75,000 to help mitigate losses in profit.
New York City Employee Retention Grant Program established to help retain employees as businesses face decreased revenue. This program is available to New York City businesses with one to four employees that can demonstrate at least a 25% decrease in revenue as a result of COVID-19. Eligible businesses will receive a grant covering up to 40% of their payroll for two months. Businesses can access up to $27,000.
New York City Small Business Continuity Fund: If your business has fewer than 100 employees, is within the five boroughs, and have experienced at least a 25% reduction in revenue, you can get up to $75,000 in interest-free loans from the city to cover revenue losses. Businesses You must have no tax liens or legal judgments against you, and you must prove a loss in revenue and that you are able to repay the loan. (Applications open soon.)
Emergency Small Business Relief Loan Fund: Renaissance NY has created an Emergency Small Business Relief Loan Fund to help businesses struggling to survive during the COVID-19 crisis. For-profit businesses operating in NYC only.
New York Department of Taxation and Finance: If you are a quarterly or annual sales tax vendor, and you were unable to file or pay your March 20, 2020, sales tax return due to COVID-19, you may be eligible to apply to have penalty and interest waived. To determine whether you are eligible, see N-20-1, Announcement Regarding the Abatement of Penalties and Interest for Sales and Use Tax due to the Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19.
The New York Community Trust: The NYC COVID-19 Response & Impact Fund/Grant was created to aid nonprofit service providers struggling with the health and economic effects of the coronavirus. It will give grants and loans to NYC-based nonprofits that are trying to meet the new and urgent needs that are hitting the city.
City of Syracuse – Covid-19 Emergency Relief Program For Small Businesses. The Syracuse Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) has created a dedicated $500,000 fund to provide zero-percent interest, 180-day emergency loans to small businesses in the City.
North CarolinaBusiness Link North Carolina Loan Assistance counselors can refer callers to the most appropriate resource: either the Small Business Technology Development Center (SBTDC) or the state’s Small Business Center Network (SBCN) to assist with the preparation of any SBA loan application materials. 800-228-8443. BLNC staff are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM EDT.
https://www.ncifund.org/what-we-do/nc-covid-19-rapid-recovery-loan: Natural Capital Investment Fund (NCIFund) is providing NC COVID-19 Rapid Recovery Loans as a vital resource to help North Carolina small businesses adapt in the face of the coronavirus crisis. The Rapid Recovery Loan is primarily designed to be a timely source of bridge financing.
North Carolina Rapid Recovery: In response to the unique economic challenges of COVID-19, a consortium of public, private, and nonprofit partners have come together and launched an innovative recovery-lending program to help support entrepreneurs like you and stabilize North Carolina’s small business sector.
N.C. Department of Revenue Special Penalty Tax Relief: The N.C. Department of Revenue recently announced that they will extend the April 15 tax filing deadline to July 15 for individual, corporate, and franchise taxes to mirror the announced deadline change from the Internal Revenue Service. In addition to the filing extension, the NCDOR will not charge penalties for those filing and paying their taxes after April 15, as long as they file and pay their tax before the updated July 15 deadline.
North Carolina Department of Revenue Tax Relief: The NC Department of Revenue Offers Expanded Penalty Relief for Taxpayers.
County of Buncombe – One Buncombe Fund: One Buncombe Fund Small Business Loans aim to provide a rapid source of assistance for Buncombe County-based businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19. This fund is a collaborative effort between Buncombe County, the City of Asheville, the Town of Montreat, members of the Asheville-area Chamber of Commerce, Mountain BizWorks, the Land of Sky Regional Council, local residents, and others.
North DakotaNorth Dakota Development Fund: This fund from the North Dakota Department of Commerce applies for businesses located in cities with a population of 8,000 or more and loan amount is based on job creation of $40,000 per FTE created.
North Dakota Childcare Loan Program: This fund applies to any licensed childcare provider and funding limit is maximum of $100,000 or availability of the fund.
Rural Growth Incentive Program Emergency Loans: Under this program, the Department may declare an emergency and make loans to “Essential Service Companies.” These include gas stations; pharmacies; grocers and, in some cases, restaurants.
Otto Bremer Trust – Community Benefit Financial Company Emergency Fund: In response to COVID-19, the Otto Bremer Trust (OBT) has established a $50 million emergency fund through its Community Benefit Financial Company (CBFC) subsidiary to provide financial support to Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Montana nonprofits and other community organizations impacted by and responding to the pandemic.
OhioSummit County COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Relief Grant Program: Summit County Council passed emergency legislation authorizing the creation of a grant program, which will be administered by the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce and grants will be available to Summit County small businesses who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Greater Cincinnati Foundation – COVID-19 Regional Response Fund for Nonprofits: Due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 on families, individuals, and community organizations in our region, the COVID-19 REGIONAL RESPONSE FUND has been intentionally designed to be responsive and flexible to address community needs of our most vulnerable as they change and evolve.
Ohio Development Services Agency – Office of Small Business Relief: The (OSBR) is focused on identifying and providing direct support to the state’s nearly 950,000 small businesses to help during the current public health crisis and to position them for a strong rebound.
OregonBeaverton Emergency Business Assistance Program: Businesses in Beaverton (with fewer than 50 employees) that have been ordered to change their services due to government coronavirus guidelines can apply for $2,500 per month in rent or mortgage reimbursement while the city is in a declared state of emergency. To qualify they must have a commercial storefront in Beaverton and a rental lease or mortgage on the property. Submit an application online; funds are awarded on a first-come, first served basis.
Hillsboro Small Business Emergency Relief Program: Until April 20, businesses in Hillsboro can apply to receive a $5,000 grant to offset losses associated with the coronavirus. Priority will be given to small businesses with 10 or fewer employees, especially restaurants, bars, education facilities and businesses that serve large groups of people.
Jade District-Old Town COVID-19 Small Business Response Fund: Small businesses in Portland’s Jade District and Old Town Chinatown neighborhoods can apply for emergency funding to support their businesses. Up to $190,000 total is available from local government sources. Priority will be given to Asian- and Pacific Islander-owned businesses. Initial applications are now closed, however additional grant opportunities will be available starting 3/31/20, through City of Portland. Sign up for updates here.
South Dakota
State of South Dakota
Businesses can get information about applying for economic injury assistance as the state works to qualify for a disaster declaration.
Texas
State of Texas
Businesses can get information about applying for economic injury assistance as the state works to qualify for a disaster declaration.
UtahSalt Lake City Emergency Loan Program will fund loans to Salt Lake City businesses affected by COVID-19 up to $20,000 at 0% interest.
Virginia
Tax Deadline Extensions are now in place up to April 20, 2020, however, you MUST file a request, and businesses will be charged interest. When granted, businesses will be able to file no later than April 20, 2020 with a waiver of any penalties. State Income Taxes, whether you’re an individual or business, must still be filed by the May 1st deadline, however, they’re allowing for deferment of payment until June 1, 2020. Interest will still accrue (unless legislative action is taken).
Washington
State of Washington updated resource list for COVID-19 support for affected Washington businesses.Department of Revenue Tax Deadline Extensions are in effect through the end of the state of emergency. This action addresses a broad range of taxes. Upon request, the Department will provide extensions for filing and paying tax returns even if the request is after the due date (60 days for monthly returns). Businesses can request by sending a secure email in their My DOR account or by calling Revenue’s customer service staff at 360-705-6705, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
City Of Seattle
Deferral of B&O Taxes: Eligible businesses that have annual taxable income of $5 million or less and currently pay City taxes on a quarterly basis will have until late 2020 to pay their B&O. To request a deferral, send an email to tax@seattle.gov. For more information, call 206-684-8484
Small Business Stabilization Fund will commit approximately $1.5 million in one-time Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds that provide working capital grants in amounts up to $10,000 to qualifying small businesses. Applications accepted through 11:59PM Wednesday, March 25th.
Relief for Utility Payments: The UDP may lower Seattle City Light bills by 60 percent and Seattle Public Utility bills by 50 percent. This allows income-eligible residential customers to access heavily discounted utilities by simply signing a short form that attests to their household income, rather than having to provide income documentation. This will provide immediate and lasting utility bill relief for customers who are unemployed or underemployed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Wisconsin
The Small Business 20/20 Program will provide grants of up to $20,000 to assist targeted businesses with cash-flow challenges resulting from COVID-19. The program also provides funds to Wisconsin-based Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to make grants to existing loan clients to mitigate short-term cash flow issues and protect jobs and public health in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Fundbox Resources
Across our company we have taken precautions, such as a work-from-home policy for all of our employees, to ensure our team remains healthy and our service to you is uninterrupted. We remain here to answer your questions, so please feel free to contact us:
For line of credit customers
Our team is available by phone Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM Central Time at (855) 572-7707. Or you can email support@fundbox.com or use our mobile app 24/7.
For net terms customers
We’re available by phone Monday through Friday, 9:30am to 6:30pm Central Time at (855) 205-9720. Or you can email netterms@fundbox.com.
We are publishing a series of articles designed to help you manage your business through unpredictable times:
Fundbox and Coalition Launch #PayToday Campaign to Help Small Businesses
To help infuse small businesses with $900 billion in unpaid invoices, Fundbox, along with a coalition of concerned companies, launched #paytoday, a campaign aimed at encouraging enterprises and governments to pay their small business vendors right away.
Overcoming Financial Challenges in Uncertain Times
Here are a few of the top financial challenges facing small businesses when times are uncertain—and how to overcome them.
5 Employee Management Tips During the Coronavirus Outbreak
Employers must work out new management policies to keep employees safe, reassured and productive under extremely difficult conditions. These five suggestions can help guide your team to a winning mindset and help keep your business in the game.
COVID-19 Health Resources for Business
CDC: Guidance for Businesses and Employers
Covers the latest coronavirus-related health and safety recommendations for businesses, directly from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
World Health Organization: Getting Your Workplace Ready for COVID-19
This document gives advice on simple ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace, how to manage COVID-19 risks when organizing meetings & events, things to consider when you and your employees travel, and getting your workplace ready in case COVID-19 arrives in your community.
Other Suggested Reading
NFIB: Latest Small Business Resources in Response to Coronavirus
NFIB advocates exclusively on behalf of America’s small and independent business owners. This link provides up-to-date resources from NFIB and outside organizations, as well as NFIB webinars, legislative monitoring, and additional resources.
Harvard Business School: How Small Businesses Can Survive the Coronavirus Outbreak
COVID-19 will put many small businesses on life support. Karen G. Mills, who has been advising policymakers on aid options, offers advice to owners on the brink of financial ruin.
U.S. News: How to Get an SBA Coronavirus Disaster Loan
Small businesses hit by the coronavirus can access up to $2 million through SBA disaster loans. Learn more about how to qualify for an SBA economic injury disaster loan, how you can use one and how to apply.
We wish every business and their employees, families, and friends the very best during these challenging times. Please continue to check this page for further updates and additional resources as they become available.
Fundbox and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.
