Since the beginning of the pandemic, RSG has been tracking the evolving response of government at all levels to the economic turbulence felt by the small business community. We have compiled a list of current resources that small businesses may find provide financial relief.
FEDERAL RESOURCES:
The U.S. Small Business Administration has implemented several programs to help small businesses get back on their feet while maintaining the safety, security, and health of our communities.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program – The program makes funding available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations who have been economically injured as a result of COVID-19. These loans are designed to help aid in paying fixed debts, payroll, and accounts payable. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The loans are offered with long-term repayments, with a maximum repayment term of 30 years. Specific loan terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the borrower’s situation and ability to repay.
- RE-OPENED Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) – The PPP has re-opened for both new loans and second draws for eligible borrowers. PPP loans of up to $10 million are typically intended for businesses with less than 500 employees. Second draws of up to $2 million are available for eligible borrowers with less than 300 employees that have previously applied for PPP funding. SBA will forgive loans if all employee retention criteria are met and funds are used for eligible expenses. Businesses can apply for a first or second draw through March 31, 2021.
- Small Business Debt Relief Program – For businesses with existing SBA loans, the SBA will pay up to six months of the principal, interest, and fees of current 7(a), 504, and microloans.
- Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program – Businesses that have an existing relationship with an SBA Express Lender have access to loans up to $25,000 to bridge the gap between the application period and long-term financing. EBL loans can be approved through March 31, 2021.
- COMING SOON Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program – The Shuttered Venue Operators (SVO) Grant program was established by the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act, signed into law on December 27, 2020. The program includes $15 billion in grants to shuttered venues. Eligible entities include theatrical producers, live performing arts organizations, museums, zoos, aquariums, motion picture theaters, and talent representatives. Eligible applicants may qualify for up to 45% of their gross earned revenue, with a maximum amount of $10 million. The SBA is currently in the process of setting up the grant program and is not yet accepting applications. Check for updates at www.sba.gov.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA RESOURCES:
- California Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program – Loans up to $1 million are available to businesses that have up to 750 employees negatively impacted by COVID-19.Terms vary by lender.Businesses can visit the program website to find a participating lender.
- California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) – CalCAP assists communities by providing financing to small businesses, up to 500 employees, that create jobs and improve the economy. This program encourages banks and other financial institutions to provide loans to small businesses that experience difficulty in obtaining financing. Loans can be used for start-up, expansion, and working capital with loans available up to $1 million. For more information on this funding, visit the California State Treasurer’s Office Website here.
- California Rebuilding Fund -IBank, a unit within the CA Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, offers loans for small businesses. Through the California Rebuilding Fund, IBank, in partnership with independent financial institutions, assists small business borrowers are in need of loans or lines of credit for working capital, secure a 95% guarantee on a bank loan, with amounts up to $100,000 or up to 100% of your business’ average monthly revenues prior to the pandemic.
If you’d like assistance in helping your business community during these challenging times, contact RSG Director Lynn Kelly-Lehner at [email protected].