When adversity strikes, small businesses must be able to act quickly and responsibly. Thankfully, owners can find help from nongovernmental organizations, private organizations and governmental programs such as the coronavirus relief bill, which provides economic assistance for American workers, families and small businesses.
Take advantage of the resources below, which provide information on financial relief via loans and government programs, guidance on business operations during uncertain times and local assistance small businesses can access.
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U.S. Chamber of Commerce Directory: Start with your chamber of commerce, which can help local businesses financially by providing resources, connections and advocacy for economic initiatives in multiple levels of government.
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U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): This agency offers guidance for business leaders and information about funding options, common issues companies must face and local resources, including business centers and regional SBA offices.
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U.S. Department of the Treasury: This guide presents an overview of the Paycheck Protection Program, part of the coronavirus relief bill, which provides small businesses with funds to pay up to eight weeks of payroll costs including benefits.
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Business.org: Learn about the newest crowdfunding sites and which ones are right for your small business. These sites connect businesses with investors and donors.
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SmartBooks: This guide to modeling and managing the financial impact of COVID-19 helps businesses reforecast and deal with potentially large sales declines.
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Lawyers for Good Government Foundation: The organization’s Small Business Remote Legal Clinic offers pro bono legal consultations and guidance on loan options. You can sign up to be notified when a clinic becomes available in your area.
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American Bar Association: The organization’s coronavirus task force provides information about the virus and the delivery of legal services.
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Small Business Relief Tracker: Forbes breaks down what local governments and private corporations are doing to help small businesses.
