COVID-19 Related Business Information
Numerous organizations in our community are coming together to help coordinate business services and streamline communication. In an effort to reduce confusion among multiple communication channels, you may receive the same or a similar looking email or post from different organizations. This is by design as we take steps to make sure everyone receives important information for their business.
At this time, we’ve identified the following information which could be helpful to your business.
STAY INFORMED
Summary of Employment Provisions of the Federal Families First Coronavirus Response
Act (H.R. 6201) by Brown Hay + Stephens
On March 17, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association hosted a conference call to update employers on the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. Topics included business communications, human resource issues, and business continuity. Listen to audio of the call here. Please be aware that the initial audio quality for the beginning of the first panelist is very poor, but improves significantly after approximately two minutes.
The City of Springfield has also added new COVID-19 related information on their website.
LOCAL BANKS
Though it is not a government program, talking to your current bank is recommended if you are having any problems or anticipate any problems. As new programs become available, we will coordinate and send the information out.
FOR YOUR EMPLOYEES
The Illinois Department of Employment Security has published information about COVID-19 and Unemployment Benefits in the form of frequently asked questions which can be found on this website: https://www2.illinois.gov/ides/Pages/COVID-19-and-Unemployment-Benefits.aspx
The U.S. Department of Labor has resources to help workers and employers prepare for the COVID-19 virus, including use of the Family and Medical Leave Act.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES
This is an especially hard time for restaurants and bars. If you are able, please purchase a gift card from a local business right now and you’ll help assist small businesses with cash-flow. Efforts are underway to promote these businesses where the gift card option is available. In addition, Local First is developing on a gift card program that can be used at numerous local businesses. More information on this program will be released when available but buying a gift card directly from a local business is the best thing you can do right now.
CDC COVID-19 RESOURCES FOR BUSINESSES AND EMPLOYERS
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has put together a comprehensive guide to COVID-19 geared directly at businesses and employers. This interim guidance is based on what is currently known about COVID-19. CDC will update this interim guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available.
Learn more: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html
There is an ongoing investigation to determine more about this outbreak. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.
Facebook is offering $100M in cash grants and ad credits for up to 30,000 eligible small businesses in over 30 countries where they operate.
The IRS has established a website to help taxpayers and businesses affected by the Corona virus.
Google for Small Business has resources to help your small business manage through uncertainty.
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has an entire section of COVID-19 resources, including best practices and templates. SHRM links worth bookmarking:
TOURISM-RELATED UPDATES
For Illinois tourism-related updates regarding COVID-19, please visit this website: https://www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/BlogDetails.aspx/Latest_News_on_COVID-19
SBA GUIDE FOR IMPACTED BUSINESSES
Health and government officials are working together to maintain the safety, security, and health of the American people. Small businesses are encouraged to do their part to keep their employees, customers, and themselves healthy.
Learn more: https://www.sba.gov/page/guidance-businesses-employers-plan-respond-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19
WEBINAR + VIDEO CONFERENCING + REMOTE WORK SOFTWARE
Commonly used & suggested by local employers: