To help our clients and affiliates through this challenging time, we are here to support you! Below, we have complied a list of resources and information sources for small business owners. Please contact us to let us know what resources you need. Innovation Services is working remotely at this time, but we are only a phone call or email away! For our clients and affiliates, we are transitioning to virtual coaching.
COVID-19 Business Resources
Funding, Employer Guidance, & Information Sources
Funding Resources for Small Businesses
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, small business owners are eligible to apply for a low-interest loan. To learn more, you can attend an upcoming webinar. The UW-Whitewater SBDC and SCORE can also assist with the loan process.
Paycheck Protection Program
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.
Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act
The programs and initiatives in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that was just passed by Congress are intended to assist business owners with whatever needs they have right now
20/20 Small Business Program
The WEDC’s Small Business 20/20 Program aims to support small businesses adversely, economically impacted by the COVID-19 virus. The program provides funds to Wisconsin-based Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) to make grants to loan clients to mitigate short-term cash flow issues and protect jobs. Visit the WEDC’s Business Resources page for the latest information.
Kiva Loans
Kiva has expanded small business lending to include a larger list of eligible businesses, the possibility for larger loans, and a grace period for repayment.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Support
Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
The WEDC’s COVID-19 Business Resources page is designed to provide the latest, best information to our clients and the citizens of Wisconsin on resources aimed at maintaining the vitality of the companies upon which our economy depends.
Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship
The University of Wisconsin System’s Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship created their own page to anchor important information for their clients. Staff across all program units are available to work with you via phone or virtual means.
US Chamber of Commerce
The US Chamber of Commerce has compiled articles, resources, best practices, etc. to help your small business. There are tons of helpful articles as well as a Coronavirus Response Toolkit.
Employer Guidance
Thrive Economic Development (ThriveED) and the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Whitewater launched the Back to Business program for businesses with fewer than 500 employees, located in Jefferson and/or Dodge County.
Wisconsin COVID-19 Startup Talent
As a result of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many folks have lost their job and are looking for new short and long term employment. If you are hiring, please consider posting an opportunity here and using this list of local candidates.
Department of Workforce Development
The Department of Workforce Development provides answers to frequently asked questions in regard to unemployment, employment & training, worker’s compensation, and equal rights.
Guidance for Employers to Plan & Respond to Coronavirus
The CDC provides interim guidance on cleaning and disinfecting, best practices for conducting social distancing, and recommendations to prevent workplace exposures.
Business and Employee Resources
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides additional guidance on employee preparation, education, and prevention. The Wisconsin Governor’s office has launched a statewide COVID-19 website that aggregates information and resources throughout state government (View website).
Online Courses & Educational Programs
Wisconsin Emergency Response Program
gener8tor is hosting emergency one-week virtual programs for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. These programs will feature daily webinars designed to identify, understand and help small businesses secure resources to withstand the current crisis. One-on-one office hours will also be availab
WWBIC Web-Based Classes
WWBIC transitioned all in-person classes to web based classes through April. WWBIC offers classes statewide for new entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners and anyone looking to improve their financial health.
SCORE Mentoring, Webinars, & Workshops
SCORE is now offering remote mentoring sessions in addition to the SCORE LIVE webinars and online workshops. SCORE is also able to help you apply for an SBA loan.
Information Sources
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
The CDC provides resources on how to protect yourself, what to do if you think you are sick, details on what you need to know, and resources for the community.
World Health Organization
The World Health Organization provides guidance on how to protect yourself, the latest updates, up-to-date stats on the pandemic, research and development updates, & other resources.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides resources on how to protect yourself, what to do if you think you are sick, details on what you need to know, and resources for the community.