We know this is a challenging time for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Below you’ll find a compilation of resources we feel are most helpful in addressing the business challenges you may be facing as you navigate the COVID-19 outbreak.
Please check back regularly as we will continue to update this guide as more resources become available.
Funding, Capital & Financial Resources
Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest economic injury disaster loans to businesses of all sizes. Loans are now available to Ohio businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak to help them pay fixed debts, payroll, AP or other bills expenses. Additional COVID-19 resources for small businesses can also be found on the SBA website.
Toledo Chamber: SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Process
The Ohio Development Services Agency is working this week to qualify Ohio for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. This program provides low-interest loans up to $2 million in order to help businesses overcome the temporary loss of revenue during the state of emergency. Non-profit organizations in Ohio will also be eligible for low-interest loans through the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.
Ohio Office of Small Business Relief
The Office of Small Business Relief (OSBR) is focused on identifying and providing direct support to the state’s nearly 950,000 small businesses to help during the current public health crisis and to position them for a strong rebound.
Honeycomb Relief Loan Program
These Community-sourced loans for small businesses impacted by the coronavirus, up to $50,000, will offer a 45-day payment free period and a six-month interest-only period.
Huntington Bank
Huntington is offering several programs to give you a sense of security and solace during these challenging times.
SharedWork Ohio
SharedWork Ohio is a voluntary layoff aversion program. It allows workers to remain employed and employers to retain trained staff during times of reduced business activity.
The Arts Commission
To help and support local artists during the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 crisis, here is a list of emergency support and funding for artists.
Paid Leave Relief
Treasury, IRS and Labor announce paid leave for workers and tax credits for small and midsize businesses to swiftly recover the cost of providing Coronavirus-related leave.
What $2T in stimulus does—and doesn’t do—for private markets
Plenty of privately owned small businesses could stand to benefit from the $349 billion in Small Business Administration loans that are included in the bill. But companies backed by private equity and venture capital firms may find them hard to come by.
Unemployment Benefits
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services has developed a webpage with answers to common questions regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impact on unemployment benefits. Additionally, a new COVID-19 layoff claim form has been created to expedite unemployment benefits for those affected.
Ohio Liquor Buyback Program
Ohio Liquor will allow a bar or restaurant to return unopened high proof liquor products purchased within the past 30 days as a way to provide economic assistance to bar and restaurant owners during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Business Advice & Guidance
Destination Toledo
In an effort to support and assist the region during the COVID-19 pandemic, Destination Toledo has created a resource directory to keep you informed of small business assistance, travel industry updates and the rapidly changing public health updates.
Eight Steps Startups Should Take to Survive the Coronavirus Crisis
Drive Capital provides specific steps that CEOs and business owners can take to help their companies survive the coronavirus crisis and the recession that’s likely to follow.
Managing through and building resilience during the COVID-19 outbreak
In an effort to keep people safe and informed about the recent outbreak of COVID-19, Facebook’s Business Resource Hub provides five steps businesses can take today in response to the unexpected challenges that have arisen for many entrepreneurs.
Toledo Regional Chamber Emergency Preparedness Resources
Preparation is the key to withstanding unforeseen emergencies that could jeopardize a business. This list of other resources contains information that can help businesses prepare for emergencies and disasters.
Technology Tools & Resources
Microsoft Teams
With COVID-19 continuing to impact people and countries around the world, teams and schools everywhere are moving to remote work and distance learning. Microsoft is currently offering free access to the Teams app, which includes free unlimited chat, video calling, file sharing, storage and more.
TechCred
TechCred helps Ohioans learn new skills and helps employers build a stronger workforce with the skills needed in a technology-infused economy. These technology-focused credentials take a year or less to complete and prepare current and future employees for the technology jobs Ohio employers need.
Health & Wellness Resources
Centers for Disease Control
General information from the CDC concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.
Managing Anxiety & Stress
CDC webpage with focused information on managing stress and coping during the outbreak of COVID-19.
Ohio Department of Health
News releases and public updates related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).