COVID-19 Resource Guide
Updated: 6/3/20, 10:29am
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.
CLICK HERE for a listing of updates from our non-restaurant members.
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PPE Supply Distribution For Small Businesses
PLEASE NOTE: WE HAVE STARTED TO RECEIVE PPE AND CAN NOW BEGIN MAKING APPOINTMENTS FOR BUSINESSES TO PICK UP THESE ITEMS. PLEASE CALL
401-783-2801 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
**Non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees are now eligible!**
Governor Raimondo has announced a collaboration with chambers of commerce and other associations to distribute 500,000 masks and much-needed disinfectant solution to our small businesses and non-profits that are open or reopening and still need help accessing them.
Small businesses and non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees that are open or are reopening — including retailers, grocery stores, manufacturers, restaurants and service-based businesses — are able to access a month’s supply of product through these organizations.
The methodology for distribution breaks down as follows:
In exchange for these supplies, businesses are asked to show they’ve completed their COVID-19 control plan.
We are pleased to announce that the Southern RI Chamber of Commerce will be one of the distribution centers for these supplies. Our office is currently closed to the public. In order to control the number of people in our office/parking lot at one time, we will be scheduling appointments for businesses to pick up their supplies. Call 401-783-2801 to schedule your appointment.
Please only come to our office if you have an appointment scheduled. If you are unable to keep your appointment or are running late, please call us asap.
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SRI Chamber Member Business Updates
We have been busy compiling information regarding whether our member businesses are open/in what capacity, and what the community can do to support them during this time. We hope to include ALL of our 600+ member businesses on this list, so if you are an SRI Chamber member, please fill out this brief survey and provide as much detail as possible if you have not done so already. If you need to update the information listed on this spreadsheet, please fill out the survey above.
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Member Video Updates
Videos are a great way to attract potential customers, and remind existing customers that you are still open, available, and ready to serve them.
We'd love for our members to send us short video updates showcasing how your business is adapting, unique ways you are staying connected with your customers, etc. We will share these videos with your fellow chamber members and the community on our Facebook page and in these daily emails.
Some suggestions of what to record:
If you're a retail store: show us around your store. What do you have for sale and how we can make a purchase? Are you offering curbside pick up? Show us how easy the process can be to place an order!
If you're a restaurant: show us a few menu items that are available for takeout and tell us how we can order. Is there an easy cooking technique that you can explain or drink that you can show us how to make?
If you have a service: tell us about it! Are you providing your services remotely? Do you have a quick tip that you'd like to share?
If you are a landscaper, roofer, builder, etc.: Are you available to work? Show us a job that you're working on right now.
Every Chamber member that submits a video update will be entered into a raffle to win a Chamber gift certificate!
If you are having trouble recording a video or are unsure about what to include in your update, reach out to us and we would be happy to assist you!
Please send a link to the video or the video file directly to Katie.
Ron and Alex from Oyster Farm Productions were kind enough to share some tips for getting started with recording your own videos. If you have any questions or would like to run any ideas by them, they're here for you!
Ron even recorded this example commercial to show how easy it can be with just a smart phone and free video editing software.
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Phase 2 Begins TODAY (Monday, June 1st)
RI Governor Gina Raimondo has signed an executive order to move Rhode Island into Phase 2 today (Monday, June 1st).
Official guidelines have been released on reopeningri.com.
As a reminder, here are some of the highlights of plans for phase 2:
Phase II General Business/Organization Guidelines
Phase II Residential Realtor Guidelines
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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 “critical retailers,” order your products online or over the phone and have them delivered or request curbside pick-up if those services are available.
* Check to see if your favorite “non-critical retailers” are accepting online or phone orders. Many are still able to process orders.
* 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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RI Department of Business Regulation Guidance on Critical vs. Non-critical Retail
Critical: Food and beverage stores (including liquor stores, farmers' markets and convenience stores), Pharmacies and medical supply stores, Compassion centers, Pet stores, Printing shops, mail and delivery stores and operations. Gas stations, Laundromats, Electronics and telecom stores, Office supply, Industrial, agricultural, seafood equipment and supply, Funeral homes, Auto repair and supply, but not car sales, Banks and credit unions, Firearms stores, Healthcare/public safety uniform stores, Restaurants for pickup, delivery and drive-thru only
Non-Critical (if you can offer curbside pick-up or delivery you are encouraged to do so):
Arts & crafts stores, Florists, Furniture stores (by appointment only), Car and other motor vehicle dealerships (except for auto repair and by appointment only), Music stores, Billiard stores, Sporting goods stores, Home furnishings stores, Lawn/garden supply stores (note that agricultural/seafood supply would be allowed to be open), Book stores, Department stores, Gift stores, Beauty supply stores, Second-hand/consignment stores, Shoe stores, Clothing stores, Jewelry stores
ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE ON CRITICAL RETAIL BUSINESSES
All essential businesses remaining open in the Town of South Kingstown must post a copy of this order in a prominent place, so that it is visible to all people entering the business.
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Executive Order Regarding Face Coverings
RI Governor Gina Raimondo has signed an executive order mandating that everyone in a public place must wear a cloth face covering (both indoors and outdoors). There will be some exceptions (young children, those with underlying health issues, etc.).
This executive order will go into effect on Friday, May 8th.
This executive order is in addition to the previous order requiring all employees of customer-facing businesses, office-based businesses and nonprofits, construction businesses, and manufacturers to wear cloth face coverings while at work.
RI Commerce Corporation has created a resource page with mask guidelines and information about making your own face covering.
A full list of Executive Orders from Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo can be found here.
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FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Understanding The COVID-19 Small Business Relief Programs
Rhode Island SCORE has outlined many of the options available to small businesses in this guide. Programs discussed include the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), State Unemployment Benefits Expansion, SBA Express Bridge Loans and Debt Relief, and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).
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LISC Small Business Grants
The new application period is now open. Click here to apply. Your application must be completed by Wednesday, May 20th, 11:59 p.m. ET.
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
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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Unemployment Benefits
CARES Act-related unemployment benefits for gig economy workers, small business owners, workers for hire, self-employed individuals and those who are otherwise ineligible for regular unemployment insurance (UI) benefits are available as of Tuesday, April 7th at 8am.
RI Governor Gina Raimondo's press conference on April 10th heavily focused on answering questions regarding unemployment benefits. It was announced that an executive order regarding unemployment benefits was signed, part of which states "the suspension of using unemployment benefits paid as a result of the COVID19 crisis in computing the future unemployment tax charges of a taxpaying employer will provide relief to Rhode Island employers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis." The governor stated that "the order ensures individual businesses who are closed during the pandemic will not be penalized for their workers accessing unemployment insurance."
To view the entire press conference, click here.
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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. Through this Fund, grants will be made to restaurant industry employees who have demonstrated being financially impacted by COVID-19, whether through a decrease in wages or loss of employment. These grants will be made on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability of funds. 100% of the Fund’s proceeds will go to providing grants to restaurant workers. 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
Congress has replenished the Paycheck Protection Program and the SBA began accepting applications again on Monday, April 27th at 10:30am EST. Reach out to your bank as soon as possible to apply for this program. 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.
You can read the PPP Interim Final Rule here.
To apply for forgiveness of your Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, you (the Borrower) must complete this application as directed in the instructions, and submit it to your Lender (or the Lender that is servicing your loan). Borrowers may also complete this application electronically through their Lender.
The Business Journals (5/26) reports the SBA weighed in on whether funds from the PPP loan program can pay for bonuses, deciding that bonuses other extra compensation is allowed for employees but not business owners. In new guidance, SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and Treasury Sec. Mnuchin “also determined that, if an employee’s total compensation does not exceed $100,000 on an annualized basis, the employee’s hazard pay and bonuses are eligible for loan forgiveness because they constitute a supplement to salary or wages, and are thus a similar form of compensation.”
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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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SBA Disaster Assistance
The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved Governor Raimondo's application for assistance and will offer low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital up to $2 million to Rhode Island small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information, and download applications at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/el. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance and to check on the status of applications.
If your business has questions regarding SBA loans and access to capital, please call RI Commerce Small Business Hotline at (401) 521-HELP or e-mail info@commerceri.com.
Press Release - March 17, 2020
Three Step Process: Disaster Loans
SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
Scammers
Yes, they are out there and in some cases, doing so in the name of SBA. A few things you want to share with your customers and small business networks:
When applying for SBA’s Disaster Economic Injury Loan: There is no immediate deadline for an EIDL application. It does not cost anything to apply, download or to access SBA Forms and papers. No credit card is required.
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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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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.
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.
CLICK HERE for a listing of updates from our non-restaurant members.
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PPE Supply Distribution For Small Businesses
PLEASE NOTE: WE HAVE STARTED TO RECEIVE PPE AND CAN NOW BEGIN MAKING APPOINTMENTS FOR BUSINESSES TO PICK UP THESE ITEMS. PLEASE CALL
401-783-2801 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT.
**Non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees are now eligible!**
Governor Raimondo has announced a collaboration with chambers of commerce and other associations to distribute 500,000 masks and much-needed disinfectant solution to our small businesses and non-profits that are open or reopening and still need help accessing them.
Small businesses and non-profits located in Southern RI with 50 or fewer employees that are open or are reopening — including retailers, grocery stores, manufacturers, restaurants and service-based businesses — are able to access a month’s supply of product through these organizations.
The methodology for distribution breaks down as follows:
- 8 surgical masks per employee (2 masks per week per person for 4 weeks)
- Voucher for 1 gallon of disinfectant for businesses under 25 employees, two 1-gallon containers for businesses with 25-50 employees.
In exchange for these supplies, businesses are asked to show they’ve completed their COVID-19 control plan.
We are pleased to announce that the Southern RI Chamber of Commerce will be one of the distribution centers for these supplies. Our office is currently closed to the public. In order to control the number of people in our office/parking lot at one time, we will be scheduling appointments for businesses to pick up their supplies. Call 401-783-2801 to schedule your appointment.
Please only come to our office if you have an appointment scheduled. If you are unable to keep your appointment or are running late, please call us asap.
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SRI Chamber Member Business Updates
We have been busy compiling information regarding whether our member businesses are open/in what capacity, and what the community can do to support them during this time. We hope to include ALL of our 600+ member businesses on this list, so if you are an SRI Chamber member, please fill out this brief survey and provide as much detail as possible if you have not done so already. If you need to update the information listed on this spreadsheet, please fill out the survey above.
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Member Video Updates
Videos are a great way to attract potential customers, and remind existing customers that you are still open, available, and ready to serve them.
We'd love for our members to send us short video updates showcasing how your business is adapting, unique ways you are staying connected with your customers, etc. We will share these videos with your fellow chamber members and the community on our Facebook page and in these daily emails.
Some suggestions of what to record:
If you're a retail store: show us around your store. What do you have for sale and how we can make a purchase? Are you offering curbside pick up? Show us how easy the process can be to place an order!
If you're a restaurant: show us a few menu items that are available for takeout and tell us how we can order. Is there an easy cooking technique that you can explain or drink that you can show us how to make?
If you have a service: tell us about it! Are you providing your services remotely? Do you have a quick tip that you'd like to share?
If you are a landscaper, roofer, builder, etc.: Are you available to work? Show us a job that you're working on right now.
Every Chamber member that submits a video update will be entered into a raffle to win a Chamber gift certificate!
If you are having trouble recording a video or are unsure about what to include in your update, reach out to us and we would be happy to assist you!
Please send a link to the video or the video file directly to Katie.
Ron and Alex from Oyster Farm Productions were kind enough to share some tips for getting started with recording your own videos. If you have any questions or would like to run any ideas by them, they're here for you!
Ron even recorded this example commercial to show how easy it can be with just a smart phone and free video editing software.
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Phase 2 Begins TODAY (Monday, June 1st)
RI Governor Gina Raimondo has signed an executive order to move Rhode Island into Phase 2 today (Monday, June 1st).
Official guidelines have been released on reopeningri.com.
As a reminder, here are some of the highlights of plans for phase 2:
- Child care centers reopen with new restrictions
- Social gathering limits will increase from 5 people to 15 people
- The mandatory 14 day quarantine for those returning to RI from out of state will only apply to those coming from areas that still have a stay-at-home order in place
- Restaurants can begin to offer indoor dining with up to 50% capacity
- Non-critical retailers can further relax restrictions for more customers in their stores. Malls will be allowed to reopen with restrictions.
- Office-based businesses will be able to bring back up to 1/3 of their workforce with restrictions. If you can work from home, you are still encouraged to do so.
- Personal services (hair salons, barbers, nail care, tanning, massage, etc.) will be allowed to reopen with restrictions
- Gyms and fitness studios will be allowed to reopen with restrictions
- Outdoor recreation and entertainment - Roger Williams Park Zoo, mini golf, boat rentals, public gardens, outdoor grounds at historical sites, etc. will be allowed to open with restrictions
- All state parks and beaches will be open with capacity limits
- Houses of worship can reopen with capacity limits beginning 5/30
- Youth sports can resume in a limited capacity
- Visitation restrictions will not be relaxed for nursing homes and assisted living centers in phase 2
Phase II General Business/Organization Guidelines
Phase II Residential Realtor Guidelines
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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 “critical retailers,” order your products online or over the phone and have them delivered or request curbside pick-up if those services are available.
* Check to see if your favorite “non-critical retailers” are accepting online or phone orders. Many are still able to process orders.
* 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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RI Department of Business Regulation Guidance on Critical vs. Non-critical Retail
Critical: Food and beverage stores (including liquor stores, farmers' markets and convenience stores), Pharmacies and medical supply stores, Compassion centers, Pet stores, Printing shops, mail and delivery stores and operations. Gas stations, Laundromats, Electronics and telecom stores, Office supply, Industrial, agricultural, seafood equipment and supply, Funeral homes, Auto repair and supply, but not car sales, Banks and credit unions, Firearms stores, Healthcare/public safety uniform stores, Restaurants for pickup, delivery and drive-thru only
Non-Critical (if you can offer curbside pick-up or delivery you are encouraged to do so):
Arts & crafts stores, Florists, Furniture stores (by appointment only), Car and other motor vehicle dealerships (except for auto repair and by appointment only), Music stores, Billiard stores, Sporting goods stores, Home furnishings stores, Lawn/garden supply stores (note that agricultural/seafood supply would be allowed to be open), Book stores, Department stores, Gift stores, Beauty supply stores, Second-hand/consignment stores, Shoe stores, Clothing stores, Jewelry stores
ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE ON CRITICAL RETAIL BUSINESSES
All essential businesses remaining open in the Town of South Kingstown must post a copy of this order in a prominent place, so that it is visible to all people entering the business.
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Executive Order Regarding Face Coverings
RI Governor Gina Raimondo has signed an executive order mandating that everyone in a public place must wear a cloth face covering (both indoors and outdoors). There will be some exceptions (young children, those with underlying health issues, etc.).
This executive order will go into effect on Friday, May 8th.
This executive order is in addition to the previous order requiring all employees of customer-facing businesses, office-based businesses and nonprofits, construction businesses, and manufacturers to wear cloth face coverings while at work.
RI Commerce Corporation has created a resource page with mask guidelines and information about making your own face covering.
A full list of Executive Orders from Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo can be found here.
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FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Understanding The COVID-19 Small Business Relief Programs
Rhode Island SCORE has outlined many of the options available to small businesses in this guide. Programs discussed include the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), State Unemployment Benefits Expansion, SBA Express Bridge Loans and Debt Relief, and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).
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LISC Small Business Grants
The new application period is now open. Click here to apply. Your application must be completed by Wednesday, May 20th, 11:59 p.m. ET.
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
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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Unemployment Benefits
CARES Act-related unemployment benefits for gig economy workers, small business owners, workers for hire, self-employed individuals and those who are otherwise ineligible for regular unemployment insurance (UI) benefits are available as of Tuesday, April 7th at 8am.
RI Governor Gina Raimondo's press conference on April 10th heavily focused on answering questions regarding unemployment benefits. It was announced that an executive order regarding unemployment benefits was signed, part of which states "the suspension of using unemployment benefits paid as a result of the COVID19 crisis in computing the future unemployment tax charges of a taxpaying employer will provide relief to Rhode Island employers impacted by the COVID-19 crisis." The governor stated that "the order ensures individual businesses who are closed during the pandemic will not be penalized for their workers accessing unemployment insurance."
To view the entire press conference, click here.
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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. Through this Fund, grants will be made to restaurant industry employees who have demonstrated being financially impacted by COVID-19, whether through a decrease in wages or loss of employment. These grants will be made on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability of funds. 100% of the Fund’s proceeds will go to providing grants to restaurant workers. 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
Congress has replenished the Paycheck Protection Program and the SBA began accepting applications again on Monday, April 27th at 10:30am EST. Reach out to your bank as soon as possible to apply for this program. 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.
You can read the PPP Interim Final Rule here.
To apply for forgiveness of your Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, you (the Borrower) must complete this application as directed in the instructions, and submit it to your Lender (or the Lender that is servicing your loan). Borrowers may also complete this application electronically through their Lender.
The Business Journals (5/26) reports the SBA weighed in on whether funds from the PPP loan program can pay for bonuses, deciding that bonuses other extra compensation is allowed for employees but not business owners. In new guidance, SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and Treasury Sec. Mnuchin “also determined that, if an employee’s total compensation does not exceed $100,000 on an annualized basis, the employee’s hazard pay and bonuses are eligible for loan forgiveness because they constitute a supplement to salary or wages, and are thus a similar form of compensation.”
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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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SBA Disaster Assistance
The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved Governor Raimondo's application for assistance and will offer low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital up to $2 million to Rhode Island small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information, and download applications at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/el. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance and to check on the status of applications.
If your business has questions regarding SBA loans and access to capital, please call RI Commerce Small Business Hotline at (401) 521-HELP or e-mail info@commerceri.com.
Press Release - March 17, 2020
Three Step Process: Disaster Loans
SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
Scammers
Yes, they are out there and in some cases, doing so in the name of SBA. A few things you want to share with your customers and small business networks:
When applying for SBA’s Disaster Economic Injury Loan: There is no immediate deadline for an EIDL application. It does not cost anything to apply, download or to access SBA Forms and papers. No credit card is required.
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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.
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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.
