COVID-19 Resource Guide
Updated: 8/4/20, 2:37pm
We will be updating this page with links to resources for our small business members and community members as they become available, so please keep checking back for up-to-date information.
We will be updating this page with links to resources for our small business members and community members as they become available, so please keep checking back for up-to-date information.
CLICK HERE for a comprehensive list of all of our member restaurants, and whether they're open or not and in what capacity.
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PPE Supply Distribution For Small Businesses - UPDATE
WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF SUPPLIES REMAINING.
Please give us a call at 401-783-2801 to schedule an appointment to pick up your supplies. You do not need to be a chamber member to reserve these supplies.
Small businesses and non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees that are open or are reopening are able to access a month’s supply of product.
We have also received a shipment from Rhode Island Commerce Corp. containing PPE specifically for businesses in the Personal Services industry in Southern RI. This business category consists of barbers/hair salons, manicurists, tanning salons, tattoo parlors and massage therapists. Doctors and dentists also qualify for this PPE.
PPE for participating Personal Service Businesses will be distributed as follows:
• Six KN-95 masks per employee
• Two eye protection units per business, except for a sole proprietorship
In exchange for these supplies, businesses are asked to show they’ve completed their COVID-19 control plan.
Commerce Rhode Island has also created a list of companies that currently have COVID-19 supplies available for sale for businesses.
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SRI Chamber Member Business Updates
We have been busy compiling and sharing information on our social media channels and in our newsletters regarding whether our member businesses are open/in what capacity, and what the community can do to support them during this time. If you are an SRI Chamber member, please fill out this brief survey and provide as much detail as possible.
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Regulations from the RI Department of Health mandate that specific signage must be visible in all businesses that are open and operating. Rhode Island Commerce has created a poster that puts all the required messaging in one place. Once you hang up this poster, you will be in compliance and will be letting Rhode Islanders know how they can keep themselves and other safe while they are in your establishment. Download the poster in English or in Spanish.
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CONTINUE TO SHOP LOCAL & SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ECONOMY
We all know that business can be challenging. The conditions that are present today increase the challenge. If we all do one small thing to help our members, collectively we can have a huge impact. Our members are hardworking people that are always there for us, let’s be there for them.
* Buy gift certificates today to use later or to give as gifts
* To avoid crowds at stores, order your products online or over the phone and have them delivered or request curbside pick-up if those services are available.
* Keep your subscription services or memberships (gyms, art classes, music lessons, dance, etc.)
*Leave positive reviews for businesses that you frequent on sites like Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Facebook.
* Reach out to local business owners that you know and ask them directly how you can help. They may have an idea specific to their business.
RI Commerce Corporation: COVID-19 Resources
RI Alliance For Business Resilience Resources
CDC: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information
CDC: Interim Guidance for Businesses & Employers
RI Department of Labor & Training: Workplace Fact Sheet
U.S. Small Business Administration: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disaster Assistance
OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration): COVID-19 Guide
Facebook For Business Resource Hub
Google For Small Business: Resource Page
RI Small Business Development Center
Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act
RICommerce Corporation: Emergency Grants and Funding
Executive Orders From RI Governor Gina Raimondo
Federal Resources For U.S. Small Businesses
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A full list of Executive Orders from Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo can be found here.
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FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Restore RI Grant Program - APPLICATIONS LIVE
Up-to-date information can be found on CommerceRI.com
Restore RI is targeted at small businesses that have been most severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will provide eligible businesses with grants of up to $15,000. Businesses with more than one employee (in addition to the owner) but not more than 20 are eligible for this program. Sole proprietors with at least one employee are also eligible to apply. Note: restaurants and caterers are not subject to the employee cap for purposes of qualification.
For any additional questions about the Restore RI program or application, please email the RI Commerce Small Business Team at info@commerceri.com.
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SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Advance
SBA announced the conclusion and success of the (EIDL) Advance program, which provided small businesses and non-profits a total of $20 billion in emergency funding.
Having allocated the full $20 billion that was appropriated by Congress, SBA will discontinue making EIDL Advances to new applicants. EIDL Advances were the “grant” portions of the EIDL Loan.
By law, the SBA is not permitted to issue new EIDL Advances once all program funding has been obligated. EIDL loan applications will still be processed even though the Advance is no longer available. Small businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 are still encouraged to apply: www.sba.gov/disaster
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NRAEF Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
The Restaurant Employee Relief Fund was created to help restaurant industry employees experiencing hardship in the wake of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. This Fund is operated by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, whose mission is to attract, empower and advance today’s and tomorrow’s restaurant and food service workers.
Due to the overwhelming response, new applications are not being accepted at this time.
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Short-term Bridge Loans
Rhode Island Commerce, in partnership with Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), the Rhode Island Hospitality Association and BankNewport, is launching a short-term bridge loan program for our restaurants and smallest businesses (1 to 10 employees). The program is funded through $1 million from the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s Small Business Loan Fund and $1 million from Bank Newport.
Loan details
Loans will have zero percent interest. You can apply for these loans starting Friday, April 3, through the LISC website. There’s a three step process.
For more information, click here.
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SBA Paycheck Protection Program
The new deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program loan is August 8, 2020. Email the SBA at RhodeIsland_DO@sba.gov to find a lender who is accepting applications.
If you do not have an existing relationship with a bank, please email RI Commerce Corp and they will connect you with a bank.
FAQ's about the Paycheck Protection Program Loans can be found here.
How to calculate maximum loan amounts by business type can be found here.
The Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $349 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses. Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, and Tribal businesses described in the Small Business Act, as well as individuals who are self-employed or are independent contractors, are eligible if they also meet program size standards.
EZ Forgiveness Application
Full Forgiveness Application
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Microenterprise Stabilization Grant Program
Rhode Island’s microenterprise stabilization grant program is designed to assist small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 and left out of federal stimulus programs to-date. The program will provide grants of up to $5,000 to qualifying microenterprises. Funds may be used for working capital to cover business costs, such as rent, staffing, utilities.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must be a bona fide business entity with between two and five employees in a participating municipality (below), and one or more of the business’s employees must be an owner. The business owner(s)’ total household income must be 80% or less of their area median income, based on family size. You can view 80% of the area median income for Rhode Island regions here.
All applications will be processed via participating municipalities, which are:
Barrington
Bristol
Central Falls
Cumberland
Hopkinton
Middletown
Newport
North Providence
North Smithfield
Smithfield
South Kingstown
Warren
West Warwick
Westerly
If your business is in one of the participating towns above, please reach out directly for more information on how to apply, view each town’s contact information here.
Don’t see the city or town in which your business is located listed here? Sign up to receive email updates on new additions to the program.
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LISC Small Business Grants
The Round 4 application period is now closed. Please register here to be notified of the next round opening July 27.
We recommend you review their Grant Information Overview and FAQ.
If you have questions not answered by the FAQ, please email smallbusinessgrants@lisc.org. They are monitoring this inbox and updating the FAQ accordingly.
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Artist Relief Fund
RISCA will be opening applications again once they have available funds – the partners are hopeful to announce a Artist Relief Fund version 2 sometime before July 1st. Stay tuned to RISCA’s e-newsletter, social media, and this website for updates.
The Artist Relief Fund is to help Rhode Island artists who have lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund has a rolling deadline. The Fund is managed by the Alliance of Artists Communities. RISCA, in cooperation with the Rhode Island Foundation and the City of Providence Department of Art, Culture + Tourism, launched this $100,000 fund in on April 7, 2020.
Grants up to $1,000 will be awarded and disbursed weekly and will be based on eligibility and immediate financial need. Grants will be disbursed until the fund is exhausted.
To apply: Sign up through the Artist Grant Portal
To donate: Please consider supporting the people behind the arts and culture in Rhode Island by donating to the fund: https://www.artistcommunities.org/arf.
More Information on eligibility is available here.
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The SBA Has Numerous Loan Programs To Help Your Small Business!
Did you know that the SBA provides small businesses access to capital in many forms outside of disaster relief programs? Did you know that the SBA will guaranty up to 90% of a loan to help ensure the bank says 'yes' to your small business getting you the funds it needs? Join us for an information-packed webinar where our local lending experts will guide you through the various funding programs offered by SBA.
From working capital loans up to $5 million, to export specific programs, to capital and fixed asset purchases that need only 10% down from you, the SBA has something that fits the needs of just about every small business out there. Also, learn about programs that were created by the CARES Act to help SBA borrowers weather the COVID-19 storm by making payments on behalf of the borrower for any SBA loan that is approved and fully funded by September 27, 2020!
This session will be held numerous times over the next few weeks to make sure you have ample opportunities to attend. Each session will run from 9:00am-10:30am
July 7, 2020
July 9, 2020
July 14, 2020
July 16, 2020
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OTHER RESOURCES
ReStart RI Initiative
Led by SCORE Rhode Island, the ReStart RI initiative launched to provide assistance to Rhode Island and South Coast Massachusetts small businesses and startups by providing the tools, techniques and business advice to get them back up and running successfully.
The best way for you to join the charge towards recovery is to register for their weekly web-based interactive workshops. They will focus on adapting business models to the challenges introduced by COVID-19 — from managing cash flow to the latest regulations.
Their calls will also include a live Q&A so experienced professionals can help you with your exact questions.
Join their next weekly virtual workshop on Thursday, June 4th at 1:00pm.
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Small Business COVID-19 Panels With Lt. Governor McKee
Lt Governor McKee is holding small business conferences Tuesday at 12 Noon to 1PM until further notice.
New ways to participate:
Facebook Live: listen, watch, & comment in real time
(staff will be answering questions in the comments) (via computer or mobile device)
Search “Lt. Governor Dan McKee” on Facebook or click this link
You need an account to comment, but not to watch
YouTube: listen & watch (via computer or mobile device)
You will be able to listen & watch the Facebook Live through YouTube
Click this link
Zoom: listen (via phone-- traditional conference call option)
For those that just want to listen or might be unable to access a computer, you can call in via Zoom; you do not need the app or anything else
Dial number then enter meeting ID on any phone (also below)
+1 646 876 9923
Meeting ID: 923 4249 8919
This option is capped at 500 participants
Click here for past Small Business Conference Calls: Links to past audio, summaries, Facebook, YouTube and Zoom
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Email Marketing 101 - Full Webinar Video Available
The Rhode Island Small Business Development Center recently hosted a webinar about "Email Marketing 101." A video of the entire presentation can be found here.
Sending emails to customers is an incredibly powerful tool for boosting engagement and driving conversions. But, where do you start? If you have yet to launch an email marketing strategy or are struggling with providing content for your audience, consider attending this webinar. This session is designed to help small business owners either begin or advance an email marketing program.
In this webinar, learn the following:
How companies are using email to communicate during COVID-19
Picking the right email platform
How to build your customer email list
Creating content that delivers results with a call to action
Understanding metrics to make smarter decisions
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Cox Media Offering Free Advertising To Local Restaurants
Cox Media is offering free advertising on television to local restaurants during the COVID-19 crisis (space is limited based on availability). Below is a statement from Cox Media regarding the service.
"At Cox Media, we believe we have an opportunity to help our customers and our market communities during the Covid-19 crisis. With restaurants shifting their focus to delivery and takeout services, we understand that consistent business is paramount right now and want to do everything we can to help.
First, some communication recommendations for restaurant owners:
Interested restaurant owners email MarketingInsights@CoxMedia.com to sign up. Please include the name of the business and the location of the restaurant. There are no purchase requirements. Space is limited based on availability.
Cox Media knows when we partner with our community, we are Better Together. It's important to us not only as a company, but as individuals to show support for the local restaurants that we normally frequent with our family and friends - the businesses that bring us together - so we can once again dine-in when this is over."
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Skills for Rhode Island's Future & EmployRI Initiative
Skills RI is partnering with the R.I. Department of Labor & Training to ensure we all get back on our feet and get back to work. For details, visit employri.org or check out the helpful resources link below.
Was your job affected by COVID-19? Your next opportunity is waiting.
Thousands of workers are needed for immediate hire.
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RI Superior Court Business Recovery Plan
Presiding Justice Alice B. Gibney has announced the start of a business protection program, the Business Recovery Plan, in response to disruptions caused by COVID-19. The court will provide supervised protections for Rhode Island businesses so they can remain operational, access new working capital, and pay debts.
The court will use a non-liquidating receivership model, which will keep the business and its assets intact. The court will appoint a receiver to oversee the preparation of an operating plan for businesses in the program. Once new working capital, such as disaster relief or small business assistance, is accessed by the business, it will be able to maintain operations, address its debts, and begin to generate revenues again.
The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting, and in some cases, forcing businesses to close which negatively impacts the state’s economy. Businesses that were not in default on its debts prior to the pandemic are eligible to file a petition with the Superior Court and will be assigned to the business calendar.
Administrative Order 2020-04, COVID-19 Business Recovery Plan
COVID-19 Business Recovery Plan FAQ's
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Microsoft has agreed to provide their Office 365 E1 program for free for six months to all R.I. employers. That includes web-based Microsoft Office applications, resources to support telecommuting such as meetings and instant messaging, as well as remote file sharing. This offer extends to businesses of all sizes — whether you have one employee or one thousand employees.
To learn more on how to access these offerings, visit the dedicated webpage here.
Other companies have also made a number of tools available:
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An Important Message From ServiceMaster By Mason
"Reduce exposure and the spread of harmful viruses, bacteria and germs at your business or home with this helpful HIGH TOUCH CLEANING CHECKLIST. And if you need sanitizing and disinfecting services at your facility, ServiceMaster By Mason can help! Our Electrostatic Spraying is 99.99% effective in killing harmful viruses, bacteria and germs such as Influenza H1N1, Norovirus, MRSA, C.Diff, Mononucleosis, COVID19, HIV, Blood-borne Pathogens, Hepatitis & more. ServiceMaster also uses EPA-registered disinfectants that have qualified under the EPA’S Emerging Pathogen standard for use against COVID19. Whether you need viral or bacterial cleanings from an office ravaged by flu, infectious disease cleanup, or taking preventative measures for employees, clients & guests, ServiceMaster By Mason has a proven technology and process to ensure your business or home is a clean & healthy environment. Call 800-934-5869 CT & RI.
Before a business hires a company to do the sanitizing and disinfecting needed, they should make certain that they are using EPA approved products and process, and following CDC guidelines, or they are spending money on a process & products NOT meeting their cleaning needs. They should ask any potential company for a product/process letter showing it’s approved."
SRI Chamber members: If you are offering a specific service like the one above that your fellow chamber members can utilize during this time, please let us know.
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Free Tech Support Services
SRI Chamber member, The Right Click, Inc., is one of several companies across Rhode Island that is offering free tech support sessions for small businesses in need. More information about the program can be found on the Rhode Island Commerce Corp website.
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If you or someone you know is 65 or older and has been laid off and needs help enrolling in Medicare, view this video and then call Tom Rolin at 401-255-1746 or contact him at trolin@WeCanHelpYou.org.
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RI Partnership With Care.com
Rhode Island has partnered with Care.com to increase childcare access for front line workers responding to the COVID-19 crisis. In addition to providing 90 days of free, premium access to their website, Care.com has created portals specifically for front line workers and caregivers in Rhode Island.
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Home Care Assistance of RI is accepting new hires and clients daily for in home elder care. Via: virtual training, interviews, and intakes, while following strict CDC-DOH Protocols. Call for a free consultation from one of their RN, Care Managers 401-284-0979. Easily apply for a position here.
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The 401 Studio "Here For Good RI" Campaign
If your business is currently shut down due to the COVID-19 crisis, or you are simply looking for a way to increase cash flow during this time, The 401 Studio has a zero risk solution.
How it works:
1. Send The 401 Studio your logo
2. Select your shirt color
3. Promote your shirt
4. The 401 Studio prints & ships your shirt directly to the customer
5. You get paid $10 for each shirt purchased!
How it helps:
* Zero risk
* No inventory
* No upfront costs
* Raise brand awareness
* Encourage community support
* The more you sell, the more your earn
* The 401 Studio handles everything for you
How to sign up:
Email Elyssa or call 401-783-5100
Shop their current "Here For Good RI" collection here.
Get updates on the program here.
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Lt. Governor Host Small Business Forums
Lieutenant Governor Dan McKee is hosting business forum conference calls for small businesses on Tuesdays and Fridays at noon (12:00 p.m.). If you would like to participate, Call 866-880-0098 and use the following passcode number: 54933514#. Phone-in attendance has been high, so please place your telephone on mute while the conference call is underway.
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PPE Supply Distribution For Small Businesses - UPDATE
WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF SUPPLIES REMAINING.
Please give us a call at 401-783-2801 to schedule an appointment to pick up your supplies. You do not need to be a chamber member to reserve these supplies.
Small businesses and non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees that are open or are reopening are able to access a month’s supply of product.
- 8 surgical masks per employee (2 masks per week per person for 4 weeks)
- (2) 2 oz bottles of hand sanitizer per employee
We have also received a shipment from Rhode Island Commerce Corp. containing PPE specifically for businesses in the Personal Services industry in Southern RI. This business category consists of barbers/hair salons, manicurists, tanning salons, tattoo parlors and massage therapists. Doctors and dentists also qualify for this PPE.
PPE for participating Personal Service Businesses will be distributed as follows:
• Six KN-95 masks per employee
• Two eye protection units per business, except for a sole proprietorship
In exchange for these supplies, businesses are asked to show they’ve completed their COVID-19 control plan.
Commerce Rhode Island has also created a list of companies that currently have COVID-19 supplies available for sale for businesses.
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SRI Chamber Member Business Updates
We have been busy compiling and sharing information on our social media channels and in our newsletters regarding whether our member businesses are open/in what capacity, and what the community can do to support them during this time. If you are an SRI Chamber member, please fill out this brief survey and provide as much detail as possible.
**********************************
Regulations from the RI Department of Health mandate that specific signage must be visible in all businesses that are open and operating. Rhode Island Commerce has created a poster that puts all the required messaging in one place. Once you hang up this poster, you will be in compliance and will be letting Rhode Islanders know how they can keep themselves and other safe while they are in your establishment. Download the poster in English or in Spanish.
****************************
CONTINUE TO SHOP LOCAL & SUPPORT OUR LOCAL ECONOMY
We all know that business can be challenging. The conditions that are present today increase the challenge. If we all do one small thing to help our members, collectively we can have a huge impact. Our members are hardworking people that are always there for us, let’s be there for them.
* Buy gift certificates today to use later or to give as gifts
* To avoid crowds at stores, order your products online or over the phone and have them delivered or request curbside pick-up if those services are available.
* Keep your subscription services or memberships (gyms, art classes, music lessons, dance, etc.)
*Leave positive reviews for businesses that you frequent on sites like Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Facebook.
* Reach out to local business owners that you know and ask them directly how you can help. They may have an idea specific to their business.
RI Commerce Corporation: COVID-19 Resources
RI Alliance For Business Resilience Resources
CDC: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information
CDC: Interim Guidance for Businesses & Employers
RI Department of Labor & Training: Workplace Fact Sheet
U.S. Small Business Administration: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Disaster Assistance
OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration): COVID-19 Guide
Facebook For Business Resource Hub
Google For Small Business: Resource Page
RI Small Business Development Center
Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act
RICommerce Corporation: Emergency Grants and Funding
Executive Orders From RI Governor Gina Raimondo
Federal Resources For U.S. Small Businesses
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A full list of Executive Orders from Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo can be found here.
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FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Restore RI Grant Program - APPLICATIONS LIVE
Up-to-date information can be found on CommerceRI.com
Restore RI is targeted at small businesses that have been most severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program will provide eligible businesses with grants of up to $15,000. Businesses with more than one employee (in addition to the owner) but not more than 20 are eligible for this program. Sole proprietors with at least one employee are also eligible to apply. Note: restaurants and caterers are not subject to the employee cap for purposes of qualification.
For any additional questions about the Restore RI program or application, please email the RI Commerce Small Business Team at info@commerceri.com.
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SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Advance
SBA announced the conclusion and success of the (EIDL) Advance program, which provided small businesses and non-profits a total of $20 billion in emergency funding.
Having allocated the full $20 billion that was appropriated by Congress, SBA will discontinue making EIDL Advances to new applicants. EIDL Advances were the “grant” portions of the EIDL Loan.
By law, the SBA is not permitted to issue new EIDL Advances once all program funding has been obligated. EIDL loan applications will still be processed even though the Advance is no longer available. Small businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19 are still encouraged to apply: www.sba.gov/disaster
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NRAEF Restaurant Employee Relief Fund
The Restaurant Employee Relief Fund was created to help restaurant industry employees experiencing hardship in the wake of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. This Fund is operated by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, whose mission is to attract, empower and advance today’s and tomorrow’s restaurant and food service workers.
Due to the overwhelming response, new applications are not being accepted at this time.
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Short-term Bridge Loans
Rhode Island Commerce, in partnership with Local Initiative Support Corporation (LISC), the Rhode Island Hospitality Association and BankNewport, is launching a short-term bridge loan program for our restaurants and smallest businesses (1 to 10 employees). The program is funded through $1 million from the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s Small Business Loan Fund and $1 million from Bank Newport.
Loan details
Loans will have zero percent interest. You can apply for these loans starting Friday, April 3, through the LISC website. There’s a three step process.
- Apply for SBA funding. Before you apply for a microloan, you have to show that you’ve already applied for federal SBA funding, which you can do here. Do not wait to apply. Call us at 521-HELP if you have questions.
- Complete LISC application. You can apply for these loans starting Friday, April 3, through the LISC website.
- Complete credit check and loan paperwork. Staff from the Small Business Loan Fund will contact you to complete the final loan paperwork and complete the loan award.
For more information, click here.
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SBA Paycheck Protection Program
The new deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program loan is August 8, 2020. Email the SBA at RhodeIsland_DO@sba.gov to find a lender who is accepting applications.
If you do not have an existing relationship with a bank, please email RI Commerce Corp and they will connect you with a bank.
FAQ's about the Paycheck Protection Program Loans can be found here.
How to calculate maximum loan amounts by business type can be found here.
The Paycheck Protection Program prioritizes millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $349 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses. Small businesses and eligible nonprofit organizations, Veterans organizations, and Tribal businesses described in the Small Business Act, as well as individuals who are self-employed or are independent contractors, are eligible if they also meet program size standards.
EZ Forgiveness Application
Full Forgiveness Application
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Microenterprise Stabilization Grant Program
Rhode Island’s microenterprise stabilization grant program is designed to assist small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 and left out of federal stimulus programs to-date. The program will provide grants of up to $5,000 to qualifying microenterprises. Funds may be used for working capital to cover business costs, such as rent, staffing, utilities.
Eligibility
To qualify, you must be a bona fide business entity with between two and five employees in a participating municipality (below), and one or more of the business’s employees must be an owner. The business owner(s)’ total household income must be 80% or less of their area median income, based on family size. You can view 80% of the area median income for Rhode Island regions here.
All applications will be processed via participating municipalities, which are:
Barrington
Bristol
Central Falls
Cumberland
Hopkinton
Middletown
Newport
North Providence
North Smithfield
Smithfield
South Kingstown
Warren
West Warwick
Westerly
If your business is in one of the participating towns above, please reach out directly for more information on how to apply, view each town’s contact information here.
Don’t see the city or town in which your business is located listed here? Sign up to receive email updates on new additions to the program.
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LISC Small Business Grants
The Round 4 application period is now closed. Please register here to be notified of the next round opening July 27.
We recommend you review their Grant Information Overview and FAQ.
If you have questions not answered by the FAQ, please email smallbusinessgrants@lisc.org. They are monitoring this inbox and updating the FAQ accordingly.
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Artist Relief Fund
RISCA will be opening applications again once they have available funds – the partners are hopeful to announce a Artist Relief Fund version 2 sometime before July 1st. Stay tuned to RISCA’s e-newsletter, social media, and this website for updates.
The Artist Relief Fund is to help Rhode Island artists who have lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund has a rolling deadline. The Fund is managed by the Alliance of Artists Communities. RISCA, in cooperation with the Rhode Island Foundation and the City of Providence Department of Art, Culture + Tourism, launched this $100,000 fund in on April 7, 2020.
Grants up to $1,000 will be awarded and disbursed weekly and will be based on eligibility and immediate financial need. Grants will be disbursed until the fund is exhausted.
To apply: Sign up through the Artist Grant Portal
To donate: Please consider supporting the people behind the arts and culture in Rhode Island by donating to the fund: https://www.artistcommunities.org/arf.
More Information on eligibility is available here.
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The SBA Has Numerous Loan Programs To Help Your Small Business!
Did you know that the SBA provides small businesses access to capital in many forms outside of disaster relief programs? Did you know that the SBA will guaranty up to 90% of a loan to help ensure the bank says 'yes' to your small business getting you the funds it needs? Join us for an information-packed webinar where our local lending experts will guide you through the various funding programs offered by SBA.
From working capital loans up to $5 million, to export specific programs, to capital and fixed asset purchases that need only 10% down from you, the SBA has something that fits the needs of just about every small business out there. Also, learn about programs that were created by the CARES Act to help SBA borrowers weather the COVID-19 storm by making payments on behalf of the borrower for any SBA loan that is approved and fully funded by September 27, 2020!
This session will be held numerous times over the next few weeks to make sure you have ample opportunities to attend. Each session will run from 9:00am-10:30am
July 7, 2020
July 9, 2020
July 14, 2020
July 16, 2020
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OTHER RESOURCES
ReStart RI Initiative
Led by SCORE Rhode Island, the ReStart RI initiative launched to provide assistance to Rhode Island and South Coast Massachusetts small businesses and startups by providing the tools, techniques and business advice to get them back up and running successfully.
- Access to no-cost mentoring for business owners
- Continuing education to address the evolving times
- Assistance in sourcing and securing business financing
The best way for you to join the charge towards recovery is to register for their weekly web-based interactive workshops. They will focus on adapting business models to the challenges introduced by COVID-19 — from managing cash flow to the latest regulations.
Their calls will also include a live Q&A so experienced professionals can help you with your exact questions.
Join their next weekly virtual workshop on Thursday, June 4th at 1:00pm.
**********
Small Business COVID-19 Panels With Lt. Governor McKee
Lt Governor McKee is holding small business conferences Tuesday at 12 Noon to 1PM until further notice.
New ways to participate:
Facebook Live: listen, watch, & comment in real time
(staff will be answering questions in the comments) (via computer or mobile device)
Search “Lt. Governor Dan McKee” on Facebook or click this link
You need an account to comment, but not to watch
YouTube: listen & watch (via computer or mobile device)
You will be able to listen & watch the Facebook Live through YouTube
Click this link
Zoom: listen (via phone-- traditional conference call option)
For those that just want to listen or might be unable to access a computer, you can call in via Zoom; you do not need the app or anything else
Dial number then enter meeting ID on any phone (also below)
+1 646 876 9923
Meeting ID: 923 4249 8919
This option is capped at 500 participants
Click here for past Small Business Conference Calls: Links to past audio, summaries, Facebook, YouTube and Zoom
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Email Marketing 101 - Full Webinar Video Available
The Rhode Island Small Business Development Center recently hosted a webinar about "Email Marketing 101." A video of the entire presentation can be found here.
Sending emails to customers is an incredibly powerful tool for boosting engagement and driving conversions. But, where do you start? If you have yet to launch an email marketing strategy or are struggling with providing content for your audience, consider attending this webinar. This session is designed to help small business owners either begin or advance an email marketing program.
In this webinar, learn the following:
How companies are using email to communicate during COVID-19
Picking the right email platform
How to build your customer email list
Creating content that delivers results with a call to action
Understanding metrics to make smarter decisions
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Cox Media Offering Free Advertising To Local Restaurants
Cox Media is offering free advertising on television to local restaurants during the COVID-19 crisis (space is limited based on availability). Below is a statement from Cox Media regarding the service.
"At Cox Media, we believe we have an opportunity to help our customers and our market communities during the Covid-19 crisis. With restaurants shifting their focus to delivery and takeout services, we understand that consistent business is paramount right now and want to do everything we can to help.
First, some communication recommendations for restaurant owners:
- Let their community know they’re open and that they are following suggested protocols for safe food handling. Social media is an easy way to communicate this message.
- Create an offer to drive traffic.
- Many delivery services (ex. Doordash, Uber Eats, GrubHub and more) are also taking steps to offer some financial relief and safer delivery options to restaurants that are struggling during this time.
Interested restaurant owners email MarketingInsights@CoxMedia.com to sign up. Please include the name of the business and the location of the restaurant. There are no purchase requirements. Space is limited based on availability.
Cox Media knows when we partner with our community, we are Better Together. It's important to us not only as a company, but as individuals to show support for the local restaurants that we normally frequent with our family and friends - the businesses that bring us together - so we can once again dine-in when this is over."
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Skills for Rhode Island's Future & EmployRI Initiative
Skills RI is partnering with the R.I. Department of Labor & Training to ensure we all get back on our feet and get back to work. For details, visit employri.org or check out the helpful resources link below.
Was your job affected by COVID-19? Your next opportunity is waiting.
Thousands of workers are needed for immediate hire.
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RI Superior Court Business Recovery Plan
Presiding Justice Alice B. Gibney has announced the start of a business protection program, the Business Recovery Plan, in response to disruptions caused by COVID-19. The court will provide supervised protections for Rhode Island businesses so they can remain operational, access new working capital, and pay debts.
The court will use a non-liquidating receivership model, which will keep the business and its assets intact. The court will appoint a receiver to oversee the preparation of an operating plan for businesses in the program. Once new working capital, such as disaster relief or small business assistance, is accessed by the business, it will be able to maintain operations, address its debts, and begin to generate revenues again.
The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting, and in some cases, forcing businesses to close which negatively impacts the state’s economy. Businesses that were not in default on its debts prior to the pandemic are eligible to file a petition with the Superior Court and will be assigned to the business calendar.
Administrative Order 2020-04, COVID-19 Business Recovery Plan
COVID-19 Business Recovery Plan FAQ's
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Microsoft has agreed to provide their Office 365 E1 program for free for six months to all R.I. employers. That includes web-based Microsoft Office applications, resources to support telecommuting such as meetings and instant messaging, as well as remote file sharing. This offer extends to businesses of all sizes — whether you have one employee or one thousand employees.
To learn more on how to access these offerings, visit the dedicated webpage here.
Other companies have also made a number of tools available:
- Cisco is offering free WebEx video conferencing and a remote-work adoption toolkit to help guide businesses in their transition to working at home.
- Google is offering free access to their Hangouts Meet, another video conferencing system, for all of their GSuite and GSuite education customers.
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An Important Message From ServiceMaster By Mason
"Reduce exposure and the spread of harmful viruses, bacteria and germs at your business or home with this helpful HIGH TOUCH CLEANING CHECKLIST. And if you need sanitizing and disinfecting services at your facility, ServiceMaster By Mason can help! Our Electrostatic Spraying is 99.99% effective in killing harmful viruses, bacteria and germs such as Influenza H1N1, Norovirus, MRSA, C.Diff, Mononucleosis, COVID19, HIV, Blood-borne Pathogens, Hepatitis & more. ServiceMaster also uses EPA-registered disinfectants that have qualified under the EPA’S Emerging Pathogen standard for use against COVID19. Whether you need viral or bacterial cleanings from an office ravaged by flu, infectious disease cleanup, or taking preventative measures for employees, clients & guests, ServiceMaster By Mason has a proven technology and process to ensure your business or home is a clean & healthy environment. Call 800-934-5869 CT & RI.
Before a business hires a company to do the sanitizing and disinfecting needed, they should make certain that they are using EPA approved products and process, and following CDC guidelines, or they are spending money on a process & products NOT meeting their cleaning needs. They should ask any potential company for a product/process letter showing it’s approved."
SRI Chamber members: If you are offering a specific service like the one above that your fellow chamber members can utilize during this time, please let us know.
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Free Tech Support Services
SRI Chamber member, The Right Click, Inc., is one of several companies across Rhode Island that is offering free tech support sessions for small businesses in need. More information about the program can be found on the Rhode Island Commerce Corp website.
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If you or someone you know is 65 or older and has been laid off and needs help enrolling in Medicare, view this video and then call Tom Rolin at 401-255-1746 or contact him at trolin@WeCanHelpYou.org.
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RI Partnership With Care.com
Rhode Island has partnered with Care.com to increase childcare access for front line workers responding to the COVID-19 crisis. In addition to providing 90 days of free, premium access to their website, Care.com has created portals specifically for front line workers and caregivers in Rhode Island.
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Home Care Assistance of RI is accepting new hires and clients daily for in home elder care. Via: virtual training, interviews, and intakes, while following strict CDC-DOH Protocols. Call for a free consultation from one of their RN, Care Managers 401-284-0979. Easily apply for a position here.
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The 401 Studio "Here For Good RI" Campaign
If your business is currently shut down due to the COVID-19 crisis, or you are simply looking for a way to increase cash flow during this time, The 401 Studio has a zero risk solution.
How it works:
1. Send The 401 Studio your logo
2. Select your shirt color
3. Promote your shirt
4. The 401 Studio prints & ships your shirt directly to the customer
5. You get paid $10 for each shirt purchased!
How it helps:
* Zero risk
* No inventory
* No upfront costs
* Raise brand awareness
* Encourage community support
* The more you sell, the more your earn
* The 401 Studio handles everything for you
How to sign up:
Email Elyssa or call 401-783-5100
Shop their current "Here For Good RI" collection here.
Get updates on the program here.
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Lt. Governor Host Small Business Forums
Lieutenant Governor Dan McKee is hosting business forum conference calls for small businesses on Tuesdays and Fridays at noon (12:00 p.m.). If you would like to participate, Call 866-880-0098 and use the following passcode number: 54933514#. Phone-in attendance has been high, so please place your telephone on mute while the conference call is underway.
