It's undeniable that America's small business owners are hanging in the balance trying to navigate worry while also acting fast to stay positive and productive in this trying time.
In search of solutions and resources for myself and other small business owners, I have found some resources being shared in various groups that I wanted to share for fellow business owners in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.
If you have resources that are not listed below please email me at leeann@leeannkphotography.com or leave me a comment below with something you have also found.
COVID-19 Business for All Grant
Business for All power by Hello Alice is offering emergency grants up to $50,000 in grants. They will be accepting applications through September 25, 2020, and winners will be announced as they are decided.
In addition to their grants program, they have also compiled a list of financial resources for small businesses which you can access here.
The Red Backpack Fund - Backed by Sara Blakely of SPANX
Spanx and Sara Blakely are committed to the empowerment of female entrepreneurs worldwide. In response to COVID-19 Sara Blakely has donated $5 million dollars for female entrepreneurs impacted by the virus.
In partnership with GlobalGiving to create the Red Backpack Fund. If you employ at least one person you are eligible to apply for this grant. You can find out more about the fund and apply for the grant here.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan
The SBA has put together resources for small businesses with less than 500 employees along with other qualifications. This program is also for independent contracts, sole proprietors, & self-employed people.
It is said on the SBA site that "funds will be made available within days of a successful application, and this loan advance will not have to be repaid."
You can find more details about this loan here and apply.
Paycheck Protection Program
The SBA has rolled out a loan program aimed at helping small businesses keep current employees on their payroll. If small businesses adhere to the loan forgiveness guidelines the loan will be forgiven.
The SBA site says that the Paycheck Protection Program monies can be used to pay "employees for eight weeks, rent, mortgage, interest, and utilities."
You can read more details here and apply for the loan.
Grants for Businesses
Fundera a loan agency compiled a list of 107 ways to find free money through grants for small businesses.
Finding grants and figuring out whether your business qualifies for the grant can be tedious. Fundera has categorized the grants so you can quickly find ones that are relevant to you.