COVID-19 Resources for Businesses

PPP Q&A Updates

Question: Is there a deadline where SBA will no longer be accepting the use of the previously issued Forgiveness forms

Answer: The new 3508 form is effective immediately. SBA is allowing lenders 60 days (March 5^th, 2021) to process the forgiveness request from borrowers that were in the pipeline prior to the issuance of the new forms. Any new forgiveness requests from borrowers must be using the new forms.  

Question: In regard to Procedural Notice 5000-20092 (attached), Can I send encrypted messages to SBA to correct EIN/DUNS issues

Answer: NO, lenders should use  – Link to send corrections to CLSC

Question: In preparation for the EIDL adjustment payments which are expected to begin tomorrow, please clarify:

The Procedural Notice 5000-20075 specifies: If the amount remitted by SBA to the PPP lender exceeds the remaining principal balance of the PPP loan (because the borrower made a payment on the loan), the PPP lender must remit the excess amount, including accrued interest paid by the borrower, to the borrower.

In many cases, borrowers paid off the remaining balance attributable to the EIDL advance amount as soon as the initial forgiveness decision was issued. In some cases this was several months ago.

The borrower will have paid interest on the EIDL balance through the date of their payoff, and the SBA will be sending payment  of the EIDL advance with interest through the current date.

This will result in the bank receiving payment from the SBA which is in excess of the remaining balance, but also includes more interest than the borrower paid to the bank.

What should the bank do with this excess interest? May the bank keep it, or should it be remitted to the borrower even though it is more than the borrower paid, or does it need to be returned to the SBA?

Answer (from PPPForgivenessRequests): A PPP borrower is not entitled to funds in excess of the PPP loan amount plus any accrued interest paid. If the PPP lender receives excess funds please use the following guidance:

Less than $10 Overpayment 

SBA has determined that it is not cost effective to require Lenders to return forgiveness overpayments of $10 or less and, accordingly, Lenders need not return the funds to SBA if the amount of the overpayment with respect to a particular PPP loan is $10 or less.  In such cases, instead of returning the overpayment to SBA, the Lender must credit any remaining balance on the PPP loan for which the overpayment was made by the amount of the overpayment.  If there is no remaining balance, the Lender may retain the overpayment. 

 More than $10 Overpayments: 

For loans with overpayments of more than $10.00, you will need to keep a list of those loans, as SBA is working on procedures for processing overpayments.  For now, please just maintain a list of any overpayments you may have, and when those procedures are released you can follow them to return any necessary funds. 

Rockville City Covid updates

View this email in your browser

CITY UPDATES The COVID-19 vaccination program, administered by the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, is preregistering people based on their priority group status, as set by the state of Maryland. To preregister, visit Montgomery County’s COVID-19 portal or call 240-777-2982.  For more information about vaccine distribution and priority groups, sign up for the county’s email/text vaccine updates. Demand is high and supplies limited. Anticipate delays when you call. Seniors who don’t have access to the internet can call the state’s new COVID-19 Vaccination Support Center: 1-855-MDGOVAX (1-855-634-6829). A new portal, at covidvax.maryland.gov, allows eligible Marylanders to enter their address, ZIP code or location to view vaccination clinics available within a 50-mile radius.   Transportation for Seniors If you need a ride to a vaccination appointment, call:  Senior Connection at 301-962-0820.  Connect-A-Ride at 301-738-3252.  The Rockville Senior Center’s Call and Ride program is available during this crisis to provide taxi coupons to seniors in need of transportation.  Seniors living within the city limits of Rockville and in need of transportation can call 240-314-8810 for assistance. COUNTY, STATE AND FEDERAL UPDATES Gov. Hogan Announces Identification of New Coronavirus Variant in Maryland Maryland COVID-19 Vaccine Update: Feb. 18 County to Host Online Conversation on Pediatric Wellness During the Pandemic COVID-19-Related Scams Targeting County Residents TRACKING AND DASHBOARDS Montgomery County COVID-19 Data Dashboard Maryland COVID-19 Data Dashboard Maryland Vaccination Data Dashboard CDC RESOURCES Transmission in K-12 Schools What You Need to Know: Schools and Child Care Programs​ Frequently Asked Questions About COVID-19 Vaccination OTHER RESOURCES COVIDConnect If you have recovered or are recovering from COVID-19, you can connect with others who have been through the same experience on COVIDConnect. COVIDConnect is a free platform where you can share your recovery story, learn about research opportunities, find mental health resources and more. Register to participate today.

2021 Child Care Relief Fund Grant Application (now accepting applications) The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 provides $10 billion in much-needed direct pandemic-related relief for the child care sector. These funds can be used to support providers facing reduced enrollment and increased costs of serving children safely, reduce family co-payments, pay staff salaries, provide care for the children of essential workers regardless of income, support costs related to reopening, and more. MSDE is pleased to provide the Child Care Pandemic Relief Fund Grant application to all operating child care programs in Maryland.  https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/child-care-relief-funds-grant  Hotel and Motel Grants (Anne Arundel County Only) Grant opens on 2/19/2021 Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC) is able to disburse $5 million from the State of Maryland to fund grant applications from hospitality businesses such as hotels, inns, and bed and-breakfast establishments.  https://www.aaedc.org/business/financing-and-tax-credits/hotel-relief-grant/ Nav’s Small Business Grant –  between January 19th and March 8th   Up to $10,000 to take your business to the next level. Submit entries between January 19th and March 8th for your chance to win.https://www.nav.com/business-grant-contest/Each quarter,  Nav offers a $10,000 small business grantto help them solve a business problem or take their business to the next level. Health Care Quality Accounts Grants Program The Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ) of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) seeks applications for grants for projects designed to improve the quality of care provided to residents in nursing homes and/or assisted living facilities.  https://health.maryland.gov/ohcq/Pages/Grants.aspx FedEx Small Business Grant Contest (2/16/2021 to 3/9/2021) Running a small business isn’t easy. And in 2020, it was as difficult as it’s ever been. What could you do with $50,000 for your small business? This year, the FedEx Small Business Grant Contest is offering over $250,000 in cash and prizes to 12 winners. Entering is a great opportunity to gain exposure for your business and connect with your community and your fans – and winning could help write the next chapter of your story. Start thinking about how you want to tell your story: What do you want to share about your business? What could a grant help you accomplish? https://www.fedex.com/en-us/small-business/grant-contest.html

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) data

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) data, as of January 31, posted last night. Items to note in the first 20 days of this newest round of PPP funding include the following points:

• More than 891,000 PPP loans totaling over $72.7 billion have been approved.
• Approximately 68% of these PPP loans have been for $50,000 or less (and 81% for $100,000 or less), with the average PPP loan size being $82,000; such stats reinforce the smallest of small businesses continue accessing the funding.
• Approximately 75% of the PPP loans are Second Draw PPP loans, demonstrating that small businesses are returning to get this much-needed economic lifeline to keep their employees on payroll and support the continuance of their business operations.

The PPP report also shares state and other data – including limited demographic information, as nearly 78% did not provide ethnicity information, more than 91% did not provide gender information, and nearly 93% did not indicate veteran status.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Update

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Update – Saturday, January 23, 2021

SBA, in continuing established communications messaging, provides the following:

SBA is receiving a significant number of questions from lenders regarding the revised rules on First Draw PPP loans, First Draw Loan Increases, Second Draw PPP loans, and streamlined Forgiveness.  SBA wants to assure all participants and their small business customers that we understand that there are many changes that businesses have undergone since the beginning of the pandemic in order to maintain operations and continue employing America’s workers.  These changes may include entity size, location or staffing, methods of operation, organizational structure, and changes in ownership.  SBA is working with national lender trade associations and stakeholder groups along with lenders to identify these potential program and system updates.    Your partnership, commitment, input and patience greatly assist in this effort. 

SBA is providing this information along with recently released additional PPP guidance and resources. To assist lenders in how to best access PPP as amended by the Economic Aid Act, here are a couple of reminders related to existing program guidance:  

Reminder – First Draw PPP Loans Under Review May Be Delayed Getting Second Draw PPP Loan number

As described in SBA’s interim final rule on SBA Loan Review Procedures and Related Borrower and Lender Responsibilities, SBA may review any PPP loan, of any size, at any time, as the Administrator deems appropriate.  If a borrower’s First Draw PPP Loan is under review by SBA for any reason, including if information in SBA’s possession indicates that the borrower may have been ineligible for the First Draw PPP Loan it received or for the loan amount it received, the lender will receive notification from SBA when the lender submits an application for a guaranty of a Second Draw PPP Loan, and will not receive an SBA loan number until the issue related to the unresolved borrower’s First Draw PPP Loan is resolved.  SBA is working to improve the information provided to lenders about the issues and how lenders can help clear issues as expeditiously as possible.

Reminder – Second Draw loan applications require an SBA loan number used for the First Draw PPP loan that was originated in 2020.  Please verify that the applicant has the correct SBA loan number, and the correct Borrower TIN to assure that the portal can match up the two loans.

Recent Guidance Issued:

• Second Draw Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans:  How to Calculate Revenue Reduction and Maximum Loan Amounts Including What Documentation to Provide (Released 1/19/2021) provides detailed information regarding calculating and documenting the mandatory 25% reduction in revenues and maximum loan amount.
• PPP: How to Calculate Maximum Loan Amounts for First Draw Loans  and What Documents to Provide (sba.gov) (released 1/17/2021) provides updated guidance, by business type, regarding calculating  and documenting payroll costs in order to determine the maximum amount of a First Draw loan.
• Interim Final Rule: Loan Forgiveness Requirements and Loan Review Procedures as Amended by Economic Aid Act (01-19-21)
• PPP LOAN FORGIVENESS APPLICATION FORM 3508 (REVISED 1/19/21)
• PPP LOAN FORGIVENESS APPLICATION FORM 3508EZ (REVISED 1/19/21)
• PPP LOAN FORGIVENESS APPLICATION FORM 3508S (REVISED 1/19/21)
• BORROWER’S DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN CONTROLLING INTERESTS FORM 3508D(RELEASED 1/19/2021).THE 3508-D ONLY NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED BY BORROWERS THAT RECEIVED A PPP LOAN BEFORE 12/27/20 AND WERE DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY CONTROLLED BY CERTAIN GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS (PRESIDENT, VP, MEMBER OF CONGRESS, HEAD OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT AND THEIR SPOUSES) AT THE TIME THE LOAN WAS MADE.

For more information and updates, visit SBA.gov/PPP or Treasury.gov/CARES 

New forgiveness forms for PPP for <$150
Roderick L. Johnson, U.S. Small Business Administration Washington Metropolitan Area District Office

The attached Interim Final Rules were published last night. They can be accessed on the following official websites;

The CARES Act Provides Assistance to Small Businesses | U.S. Department of the Treasury

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program

The attached “Guidance on Accessing Capital for Minority Underserved Veteran and Women Owned Business Concerns was also published last night. A copy is attached as well as the weblink below.

Microsoft Word – Guidance on Accessing Capital for Minority Underserved Veteran and Women Owned Business Concerns .docx (sba.gov)

We have also attached the new legislation signed by the President on December 28th. This document has been downloaded directly from the Congress.gov website. The link to the legislation is below.

Text – H.R.133 – 116th Congress (2019-2020): Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

As we receive additional official guidance from the Small Business Administration and the Department of Treasury we will send it out immediately. In the meantime thank you for your patience and continued support of our small businesses.

When sending an email, please use the following format for the subject line:

Bank Name – Bank Location ID – Bank FIRS # – Subject ( If Location ID and FIRS numbers are unknown please leave blank).

Also, please assure that your full contact information (Company, Name & Title, Business Phone, Cell Phone, Email, and Address) is in the signature line of you message.

Please indicate your preferred direct contact phone number.

To better serve you, if you are not located in the area supported by the Washington Metropolitan District Office, please contact your Lead District Office if you have questions. Your Lead District Office is the District Office serving the geographic area where the lender’s principal office is located.

US Federal Government | COVID-19 Emergency Relief Package – Topline Summary of New Agreement

Direct Economic Relief for Workers and Families — $286 billion ($120 billion in Unemployment Insurance and $166 in Economic Impact Payments)

Small Business – $325 billion

Support for Community Development Financial Institutions and Minority Depository Institutions — $12 billion

Transportation — $45 billion

Vaccines, Testing and Tracing, Community Health and Health Care Provider Support — $69 billion

Schools — $82 billion

Rental Assistance — $25 billion

Nutrition and Agriculture — $26 billion

US Postal Service — No score.

Child Care — $10 billion

Broadband — $7 billion

Miscellaneous Provisions —

Coronavirus Relief Fund Extension: This bill extends the availability by one year (until Dec. 31, 2021) for funds provided to states and localities by the Coronavirus Relief Fund in the CARES Act.

Extension of the Employee Retention Tax Credit: The bill importantly extends and expands the refundable Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), which was established in the CARES Act. The extension of this tax credit will help keep additional U.S. workers on payroll and more small businesses and nonprofits across the country afloat.

Special “lookback” for EITC and CTC: The bill includes a special
temporary rule allowing lower-income individuals to use their earned income from tax year 2019 to determine the Earned Income Tax Credit and the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit (i.e., the Additional Child Tax Credit) in the 2020 tax year. This will help workers who experienced lower wages this year, due to the pandemic, to get a larger refund that is consistent with their earnings from prior filing seasons

Contractor Pay Extension: This bill provides federal agencies the
authority to reimburse contractors for the costs of paid leave during the COVID pandemic, for contractors who are temporarily unable to work due to facility closures or other restrictions. This is particularly important for our national labs, like Brookhaven National Laboratory, and national security facilities.

COVID-19 Relief Programs Available for Maryland Restaurants, Artists, and Entertainment Venues

As part of Governor Hogan’s latest $250 million relief package for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, new financial assistance is now available to restaurants, independent artists, arts organizations, entertainment venues, and Main Street businesses across the state.

The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) has received an additional $3 million to reinvest in its Emergency Grant Program, aimed at helping those in the arts community that have experienced losses. Restaurants interested in this new grant must apply through their local jurisdiction. Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO) will receive $2 million through the governor’s initiative to to support hometown tourism efforts that promote local restaurants, attractions, and shops. Maryland Commerce’s Office of Tourismprovides directly to the local tourism offices. 

Housing and Community Development will receive $20 million to reinvest in their coronavirus relief programs. Labor began accepting applications on October 28 for its COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund, which is designed to prevent or minimize the duration of unemployment resulting from layoffs.

Neighborhood Business Works (NBW) Program: Opportunity Zone Micro Grant Funding

The Opportunity Zone Microgrant is to assist small start-ups or expanding businesses located in an Opportunity Zone in Maryland. The NBW Microgrant funding is targeted to opportunity zones in Allegany County, Garrett County, Somerset County, and Wicomico County or in an opportunity zone that overlaps with a priority funding area in one of the remaining jurisdictions. Use the Incentive lookup tool to see if your business location qualifies. To find out more about this funding, read the Application Guide. 

***Disclaimer: this document is a topline summary and does not include every single item in the package***

---

COVID-19 Relief Funds for Maryland Businesses and Nonprofits slide deck. Click HERE.

COVID-19 Funding Relief Contacts

For questions pertaining to relief programs contact the appropriate department. 

Department of Commerce:

• For questions pertaining to the restaurant program along with any general question pertaining to COVID-19 and the business community Click HERE.
• For questions pertaining to the COVID 19 Grant and Loan program Click HERE.
• Updates on the various funds available (State, Local, and Federal), are posted on this website. LEARN MORE

Department of Housing and Community Development

• For questions pertaining to the MD-SERI programs (Entertainment Venues, Tourism Nonprofit, and Main Streets) Click HERE
• For additional details / applications for the MD-SERI programs  Click HERE
• For OZ microgrant details Click HERE
• Traditional NBW fact sheet Click HERE

Department of Labor

• For General Information on Covid-19 Layoff Aversion Fund Click HERE.
• One pager on Covid-19 Layoff Aversion Fund Click HERE.
• Covid-19 Layoff Aversion Fund Policy Click HERE.

Click HERE for a list of Rockville Restaurants open for business organized by shopping center.

Pro-Tips for Using the PPP and EIDL Loans
– Aaron Boker of Aronson’s
Click HERE for slide deck

Updates on the PPP Loan Forgiveness
– Aaron Boker of Aronson’s
Click HERE for slide deck

Chamber Chat with Montgomery County Officials -Regarding Phase 1
Click HERE for recording video of the conversation

Considerations for Lease Modifications for Small Businesses
– Bob Canter of CA Commercial Realty
Click HERE for slide deck

Returning Employees to Work as COVID-19 Restrictions Ease
– Scott Mirsky and Hayes Edwards of Paley Rothman
Click HERE for slide deck

Considerations for Returning to the Office
– Digital Industry
Click HERE for slide deck

Resources for Businesses during the COVID-19 Crisis – Click HERE
Hear from Marji Graf, President and CEO of the Rockville Chamber and Grier Malick of the Maryland Small Business Development Center

Montgomery County Council’s COVID-19 Relief – Click HERE
Interview with Councilmember Evan Glass

Interview with Mayor Bridget Donnell Newton – Click HERE

Interview with Rod Johnson of the Small Business Administration – Click HERE 

Fed Ex #SupportSmall Grant

Two hundred grants will be awarded of $5,000 each, plus a $500 credit from FedEx Office that can be used for printing banners, posters, floor graphics, custom branded boxes, and more.

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/support-small-business-grants.html

Deadline to apply for this grant is June 12, 2020. 

The Entrepreneurial Dream Project 

A financial award of $100,000 will be split equally between two companies. Additionally, ten companies will receive mentoring from the Supermaker Mentor Network of acclaimed founders, executives, investors, and operators.

https://supermaker.com/p/entrepreneurial-dream-project?x-craft-preview=Y13mE7ov1l&token=4FjhtwJ7LyMBu6ji5i9d6cEVs882ekLR
Submissions are open thru June 15, 2020. 

Business For All Grant – Powered by HelloAlice 

One grand prize winner will receive a $50,000 business grant, two runners up will each receive a $25,000 business grant, twelve finalists will each receive a $10,000 business grant, three business / entrepreneur support organizations will each receive a $10,000 grant to continue their work in supporting business owners.

https://businessforall.helloalice.com/about#covid19

Entries must be received by July 16, 2020. 

Restaurant Employee Relief Fund

Restaurant workers can apply for a grant paid for by the NRAEF fund starting Thursday, April 2, and will receive a one-time $500 check within three weeks to use toward housing, medical bills, student loans, groceries, and other expenses.

The NRAEF stipulated that these grants would be administered on a “first-come, first-serve basis.”

To apply visit https://rerf.us

Montgomery County’s Re-Opening Page for Businesses Click HERE

Office Re-Opening Requirements: click HERE

Reopening Requirements Checklist – This form must be posted in any business that has reopened in Montgomery County. Please print and post.

MoCo4Business You Tube Channel – weekly episodes providing new information, answering frequent questions and keeping the business community up to date on the process of Montgomery County moving through the various phases of reopening! 

Reopening Assistance for MoCo Businesses and Non-Profits 

On July 7, the Montgomery County Council approved a special appropriation of $14 million to create the Reopen Montgomery Business Assistance Program, which will reimburse County businesses and non-profit organizations that incur reopening expenses to comply with new state and county health regulations due to the COVID-19 public health crisis. Funding for this appropriation comes from Public Health Emergency Grant funds and the federal CARES Act. 

A business or non-profit organization is eligible to receive assistance from the Reopen Montgomery Business Assistance Program if it:

• Has its physical locations only in the County or its County-based locations account for more than 50 percent of the business’s total number of employees or 50 percent of the business’s total sales;
• Employs 100 or less full-time-equivalent employees;
• Has not received financial assistance from the County for reopening expenses related to the COVID-19 health crisis; AND
• Has incurred reopening reimbursable expenditures between March 16, 2020 and 30 days following the County’s Phase Three reopening.

Reopening reimbursable expenditures are expenses incurred during reopening to comply with Maryland and Montgomery County COVID-19 health regulations. Allowable expenses include, but are not limited to, the following: personal protective equipment, materials to create barriers, dividers, protected areas, contactless payment systems, cleaning supplies, signage, outdoor furniture, and disposable food containers and utensils. Each eligible business and non-profit may be awarded up to $5,000 for reopening reimbursable expenditures. The award will be based on actual, verified expenses for each business and non-profit organization and will be administered through a rolling lottery system. Listen to a #MoCo4Business podcast episode about this grant HERE. 

More information on deadlines and the application process will be distributed as it becomes available. 

Montgomery County Microenterprise Stabilization Program

Montgomery County’s Microenterprise Stabilization Program provides financial assistance to income-eligible for-profit businesses with five or fewer employees that have experienced a reduction in revenue as a result of the current public health emergency. Assistance is up to $10,000 per business.

Applications opened up on June 10

Click HERE to review requirements for qualifying and for the application 

Montgomery County Telework Assistance Fund

Additional funds are considered for the Telework Assistance Fund, which is being administered by MCEDC.

MCEDC will be conducting weekly lotteries for all organizations with approved expenditures. The weekly lotteries will take place until all the funding is awarded.

Information, program guidelines and the application can be found HERE 

Montgomery County PPE Supplier Portal

Click HERE for the portal

If your business is interested in being a part of this collaboration, please reach out through the contact information on the web site with your capabilities. 

Many of our businesses have pivoted to source and sell PPE products.  

Click on their name to be taken to their website.

Talk of the Town (various PPE) 
– Karen Mulligan – Karen@tottevents.com

Capital Golf Promotions (various PPE)
– Brian Golden – btgolden13@gmail.com

Simply Fresh Events (gloves, hand sanitizer)
– Gabby Ramirez – gabriella.ramirez@simplyfreshevents.com

TPI Efficiency (various PPE)
– Ben Anderson – Ben.Anderson@TPIEfficiency.com

The Ad Answer (various PPE) 
– Marc Silver – msilver@theadanswer.com

The Right Fluff (fabric masks)
– Marcy Santos – marcy@rightfluff.com

Meduni USMI Nonprofit Organization (various PPE)
– Vaughn Martirosyan – vmartiro@meduni.org

Premium Promotions (custom branded face masks, hand sanitizer, disposable masks and medical gowns, touch-free door opener/utility key tag) – Stephanie Weiss – Stephanie@PremPromo.com

Assisting Hands Home Health Care (CNA screening support staff for buildings, businesses, etc) 
– Patricia Dubroof – pdubroof@assistinghands.com

P.Dubroof Artist (Rockville themed facemasks)
– Patricia Dubroof – artforyourwalls@gmail.com

SHS Services (Return to Office CDC Compliance and Safety Kit)
– Seth Opal – seth@shsservices.com  

Montgomery County Council Passes $36M in COVID-19 Relief – the PHEG Grant 

This package includes:

• $20 million in small business and nonprofit grants.
• $10 million in support for Montgomery County hospitals.
• $5 million in direct support for county residents.
• $1 million in funding for services for our most vulnerable populations. 
• $260 thousand to combat food insecurity.
• $250 thousand to provide hotel rooms for front-line healthcare workers and first responders

MoCo Public Health Emergency Grants (PHEG) – applications are no longer being accepted

​A public dashboard on the programmatic results has been launched and can be found at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/biz-resources/pheg/.  

Please note that there are approximately 1,600 applications currently under review, with another 375 applications requiring follow-up work for various reasons.

Clarification on how the County is evaluating PHEG applications:  Bill 16-20, used the term “significant financial loss” and the (temporary) Emergency Regulations defined significant loss as a 50% loss as compared to an average monthly loss that is calculated from prior years financial information.  The law defines the Public Health Emergency as a situation caused by the spread of a communicable disease in the County that results in a Federal, State, or County Public Health Emergency order restricting business operations in the County.  Since that order went into effect March 16th, a review of monthly financial information would only reflect a closure for half of a month.  Thus, the review of the applications will look at March 2020 financials and apply a calculation for a half month to approximate a 50% monthly loss

Click HERE for program website 

Local Business Preference Program 

The County Council just approved the Local Business Preference Program which will provide a 10 percent price preference in evaluating a bid or proposal from a local business on a contract awarded by the County.

The bill is intended to bolster the County’s economic growth and support the creation and retention of employment opportunities within the County.

It is encouraged for all our members to consider registering with the County’s Procurement Department.
 

COVID-19 Relief Programs Available for Maryland Restaurants, Artists, and Entertainment Venues

As part of Governor Hogan’s latest $250 million relief package for those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, new financial assistance is now available to restaurants, independent artists, arts organizations, entertainment venues, and Main Street businesses across the state.

The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) has received an additional $3 million to reinvest in its Emergency Grant Program, aimed at helping those in the arts community that have experienced losses. 

Restaurants interested in this new grant must apply through their local jurisdiction. 

Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO) will receive $2 million through the governor’s initiative to to support hometown tourism efforts that promote local restaurants, attractions, and shops. 

Maryland Commerce’s Office of Tourism provides directly to the local tourism offices. 

Housing and Community Development will receive $20 million to reinvest in their coronavirus relief programs. Labor began accepting applications on October 28 for its COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund, which is designed to prevent or minimize the duration of unemployment resulting from layoffs.

Neighborhood Business Works (NBW) Program: Opportunity Zone Micro Grant Funding

The Opportunity Zone Microgrant is to assist small start-ups or expanding businesses located in an Opportunity Zone in Maryland. The NBW Microgrant funding is targeted to opportunity zones in Allegany County, Garrett County, Somerset County, and Wicomico County or in an opportunity zone that overlaps with a priority funding area in one of the remaining jurisdictions. Use the Incentive lookup tool to see if your business location qualifies. To find out more about this funding, read the Application Guide. 

Maryland Portal Connecting PPE Suppliers with Buyers

Click HERE for press release

Click HERE to get to the Portal

Back to Business Website

As businesses slowly transition to reopening, the Maryland Department of Commerce is sharing guidance and best practices for Maryland’s companies . LEARN MORE. 

Leaders across Maryland’s business community have assisted in developing these best practices to help companies across the state as we enter this new era. The Back to Business page provides general and industry-specific best practices, and a Maryland Strong: Back to Business Pledge that we are encouraging all Maryland business owners to print and display.​

Safe Workplace: Best Practices and Baselines for Reopening Maryland

On April 28, 2020, the Maryland Chamber of Commerce unveiled “Safe Workplace: Best Practices and Baselines for Reopening Maryland,” a set of guidelines for employers as they begin to think about reopening in a safe and responsible way in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Download “Safe Workplace: Best Practices and Baselines for Reopening Maryland”Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery“The “Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery” has been developed based on the recovery plans issued by the federal government, the National Governors Association, and premier institutions like Johns Hopkins and the American Enterprise Institute; shaped by the expert advice of the scientists and public health officials on Maryland’s Coronavirus Response Team; and tailored to our situation here in Maryland. The result is a responsible, gradual, safe path forward for our state.”

Download the Roadmap to Recovery

Maryland Small Business Relief Wizard

Click HERE to for a tool that helps connect businesses with the resources and programming for which they’re eligible, streamlining the process of finding support.

Maryland Small Business Development Center(SBDC)

COVID-19 Business Survival Guide

Maryland Resource Guide – An A-Z Resource Guide, outlining the latest updates and actions Maryland has taken thus far.

Maryland Interagency Website: COVID-19 Information for Businesses: Click HERE

Interpretive Guidance of March 23, 2020 Executive Order to close Non-Essential Businesses

Text Message Updates. To receive alerts, tips, and resources related to COVID-19 and other threats and hazards affecting, or that may affect Maryland, text “MdReady” to 898211.

MD Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Loan Fund: Click HERE

MD Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Grant Fund: ClickHERE

As of 5pm on 4/6 Commerce is no longer accepting new applications for COVID19 Grant Relief and loan programs.

MD Dept of Labor

COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund: ClickHERE. 

Governor Hogan and the Maryland Department of Labor launched the new COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund, designed to support businesses undergoing economic stresses due to the pandemic by preventing or minimizing the duration of unemployment resulting from layoffs. Businesses can apply for up to $50,000 in state money to keep employees on the payroll. Funds from the layoff aversion fund can be used several ways, including purchasing equipment to allow employees to work from home, cleaning services at businesses delivering essential services and other measures aimed at staving off layoffs.

One page Fact Sheet

Application (xls format): Download  HERE

Unemployment Insurance: LEARN MORE

Includes an Updated Process for Filing A Claim and if your employment or business has been impacted – COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Maryland COVID-19 Emergency Relief Manufacturing Fund: This $5 million incentive program helps Maryland manufacturers to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) that is urgently needed by hospitals and health-care workers across the country. More details expected to be announced by Friday, March 27, 2020. When they are, they will be found HERE.

Information for Businesses Concerning Extended Tax Deadline: Click HERE for MD guidance.

Information for Individuals Concerning Extended Tax Deadline: Click HERE for Federal guidance. Click HERE for MD guidance.

Calling all Manufacturers – To assist the State and the people of Maryland, the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI) is creating a database of Maryland manufacturing companies that make components, technologies, materials and products needed to fight COVID-19.Invite manufacturers that make components or end products for the medical industry to add their company to the database using the form found HERE.   As manufacturers sign up, the list of companies will be on the RMI website. In addition, the database will be shared with State leaders and key decision makers who will help procure additional medical equipment and supplies much needed at this critical time.COVID-19 FAQ Sheet regarding employers questions about impact in the workplace: Click HERE

COVID-19 FAQs for self employed or 1099 contractors: Click HERE

COVID-19 Compliant Sick Leave Policies (for Employers in MD): Click HERE

Want to help? Do you have resources and capabilities that the state may need to assist in our efforts? If so, please send an email to Resource.MEMA@Maryland.gov We are actively looking to connect with the needs of the health care industry.Need help with meals or unemployment assistance:  Click HERE for a list of options.

Federal COVID-19 Business Resources and Updates

CDC Activities and Initiatives Supporting the COVID-19 Response and the President’s Plan for Opening America Up Again – May 2020 – Click HERE

US Chamber of Commerce Re-Opening Guidance and Resources

Online resource provides the latest state guidelines, sector-specific guidance, small business advice, and other tools as the country looks to reopen safely and keep employees and customers healthy and informed.

Click HERE for Reopening Business Digital Resources Center

US Treasury Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) –  Click 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.

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. The SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities.

Loan is last 12 months of payroll x 2.5 = loan amount. 

Forgivable loan.

Less than 20 employees.

Click HERE for a pdf pamphlet about the program.

For a top-line overview of the program Click HERE

If you’re a lender, more information can be found HERE

If you’re a borrower, more information can be found HERE

Click HERE for a FAQ sheet

Another link that offers interpretations of maximizing the use of PPP funds

FAQ Sheet (dated 23 April 2020)

List of MD lenders participating in the PPP can be found HERE

On Friday, May 15, the Small Business Administration and Treasury Department released the application that borrowers must complete in order to have their Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiven. The form includes detailed information about the costs that are eligible for forgiveness and how to calculate those costs.  View the press release HERE.  To apply for forgiveness of your Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan, you must complete the application and submit it to your lender (or the lender that is servicing your loan). Borrowers may also complete this application electronically through their lender.

Update, June 8th: Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act has been signed the legislation into law. SBA, in consultation with the Treasury, will promptly issue rules and guidance, a modified borrower application form, and a modified loan forgiveness application implementing these legislative amendments to the PPP.

Key Provisions:

Lengthens the loan forgiveness period from eight weeks to 24 weeks.

Lowers the amount of PPP funds that must be spent on payroll from 75% to 60% and allows 40% for other qualifying expenses.

Delays employer payroll tax payments through the end of 2020.

Exempts borrowers from the FTE loan forgiveness reduction if borrowers are unable to return to the same level of business activity as before February 15, 2020, due to Covid-19.

Read the SBA Press Release HERE

Update: 15 June.  The PPP will stop June 30.  The SBA will stop approving PPP applications on June 30, 2020.

Includes an Updated Process for Filing A Claim and if your employment or business has been impacted – COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions 

Maryland COVID-19 Emergency Relief Manufacturing Fund: This $5 million incentive program helps Maryland manufacturers to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) that is urgently needed by hospitals and health-care workers across the country. More details expected to be announced by Friday, March 27, 2020. When they are, they will be found here: https://commerce.maryland.gov/fund/maryland-covid-19-emergency-relief-manufacturing-fund 

Information for Businesses Concerning Extended Tax Deadline: Click HERE for MD guidance. 

Information for Individuals Concerning Extended Tax Deadline: Click HERE for Federal guidance.  Click HERE for MD guidance. 

Calling all Manufacturers – To assist the State and the people of Maryland, the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI) is creating a database of Maryland manufacturing companies that make components, technologies, materials and products needed to fight COVID-19.Invite manufacturers that make components or end products for the medical industry to add their company to the database using the form found here: https://rmiofmaryland.com/maryland-made-to-save-lives/   As manufacturers sign up, the list of companies will be on the RMI website at https://rmiofmaryland.com/  In addition, the database will be shared with State leaders and key decision makers who will help procure additional medical equipment and supplies much needed at this critical time. 

COVID-19 FAQ Sheet regarding employers questions about impact in the workplace: Click HERE 

COVID-19 FAQs for self employed or 1099 contractors: Click HERE 

COVID-19 Compliant Sick Leave Policies (for Employers in MD): Click HERE 

Want to help? Do you have resources and capabilities that the state may need to assist in our efforts? If so, please send an email to Resource.MEMA@Maryland.gov We are actively looking to connect with the needs of the health care industry. ..Thank You! Need help with meals or unemployment assistance:  Click HERE for a list of options.

As many of you are aware, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act approved $350 billion in emergency loans for small businesses to help them keep workers employed. In fact, if small businesses maintain or later restore their payrolls, they may not have to repay some — or possibly any — of the loan. Here’s a guide and checklist from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to help your small business through the process.

Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act

Highlights of the CARES Act 

Employee Retention Tax Credit

This credit is roughly $380 per employee.  Depending on the number of employees you have it may be worth considering.

This is a credit for a percentage of the employer portion of federal payroll tax. It looks like it might be as easy is reducing your quarterly payment for the amount of your eligible credit.

This is only for businesses that did NOT receive the PPP loans.

Contact your payroll company or your accountant for further information.