Waynesboro Offers Assistance for Businesses Affected by Cornonavirus
We recognize this is likely one of many messages you have recently received from organizations regarding the global coronavirus outbreak. While this event is causing numerous uncertainties seen in the global marketplace, we know it is affecting our small businesses dramatically. The economic development office is working to be of assistance during this time of uncertainty and business interruption.
• To keep abreast of Waynesboro specific actions, visit our city website, Facebook page, and tourism website.
• We are currently preparing an EDA Emergency Loan application process. These loans will be up to $5,000 at zero percent interest for small businesses to help get through the immediate crisis. If you are interested in learning more, visit waynesborobusiness.com/local-business-resources and click on “Emergency Loan Fund.”
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19). The Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. As of now, Virginia is not on the list of designated states, but we will keep you updated in this rapidly evolving situation. Check this link for more information: www.sba.gov/disaster-assistance/coronavirus-covid-19.
• Thanks to a generous gift made to The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, a COVID-19 Local Response Fund has been implemented. If you own or manage a business, or are the human resources specialist for your company, please take a few minutes today to complete a brief SURVEY, the results of which will help the Community Foundation understand the needs of your employees as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Community Foundation is working with the United Way, Augusta Health, CAPSAW, and other organizations to assess the changing needs of our community during this crisis. They will use that information to direct the resources of their new COVID-19 Local Response Fund to where they are most needed and prepare an UPDATED RESOURCES GUIDE for our community, which they will also make available to local businesses. If you know of someone else who’s input would be valuable, please share this survey with them.
• Facebook will be launching a relief program aimed at the many small businesses who utilize Facebook services. The program will offer $100 million in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses. This is a new programs with few details at this time, but you can check this link for more information: www.facebook.com/business/boost/grants.
• We are in touch with other state/federal agencies who are working on disaster relief funding programs. We will continue to update you as we learn more.
As always, we’re Here to Help. Our professional staff is available to partner with you by providing information, contacts, and assistance as you work to make your business a success.
