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As we experience disruptions in our daily lives to confront the COVID-19 epidemic, startup teams and small businesses are struggling with lost income, stress, and myriad other challenges. The words “uncertainty” and “unprecedented” likely appear in your inbox daily, and it is easy to feel lost in these difficult times. While measures to limit the spread of COVID-19 and care for those affected may hurt businesses, resources exist to support those who need it.
Resources from El Paso County Health
General Business Guidance
- Work Do’s and Do Not’s During COVID-19 (Poster available for download and print, to be posted within business as appropriate)
- Best Practices for All Businesses
- COVID-19 Cleaning Recommendations
- Use of Face Coverings and PPE for Businesses
Industry-Specific Guidance
- Non-critical offices
- Field Services
- Non-critical retail
- Personal Training and Gyms
- Limited Health Care Settings
- Personal Services
Guidance for Residents
Informational Sites
Inc.’s Essential Business Survival Guide for the Covid-19 Crisis
Expert advice on handling panicked customers, interrupted supply chains, webinars, Zoom meetings, hyper kids, and a work environment that changes by the hour.
Updated daily, with real-world funding, resources, and support for small business owners adapting to the impacts of coronavirus. Tools included are financial strategies, online strategies, best practices, up-to-date information, and community and mental health support.
Resources available to support small businesses, nonprofits, freelancers, and independent contractors.
Financial Resources
Economic Injury Disaster Advance Loan (EIDLS) – U.S. Small Business Administration
Eligible small businesses may apply for an advance of up to $10,000 which provides economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenues. Funds are made available within three days of successful application and will not have to be repaid.
Facebook Small Business Grants Program
Facebook is providing $100 million in cash grants and ad credits to help small businesses. While applications are currently forthcoming, Facebook for Business also has created a resource hub to help businesses.
Unemployment (for employees)
Note: If you are an independent contractor, 1099 worker, or self employed, you may not be eligible to file a claim.
If you are not working or are working fewer hours as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may file an unemployment claim. If your last name begins with the letter A – M, file a claim on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, or after 12 noon on Saturday. If your last name begins with the letter N – Z, file a claim on Monday, Wednesday, Friday or before 12 noon on Saturday.
Freelancers Relief Fund (for freelancers)
This fund may provide emergency assistance up to $1,000 per household for independent workers in the U.S. who have primarily earned income through freelance work for at least one year. For freelance artists, see a list of resources here.
Work-Share Program (for employers with 2 or more employees)
The Work-Share Program provides an alternative to laying off employees by allowing them to work fewer hours while still being eligible for partial unemployment benefits.
CERF+ Artists Safety Net (for “craft”-related startups)
If your startup works in a craft discipline (creation of original objects through the skillful manipulation of materials) and meets some eligibility criteria, you may receive a grant from CERF+. You must have a demonstrated history in craft for at least three years.
See this great compiled list from the Bridgespan Group of resources for nonprofits and philanthropy-related businesses.
Startup Resources
Airtable has a list of investors still making investments during COVID-19.
Coronavirus Information and Resources for VCs and Startups
This webpage provides important information and resources to venture-backed companies about the federal response to COVID-19, including tax credits, loan opportunities, and sick leave.
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