I know you were all excited for our first networking meeting of 2020, but in an effort to stay healthy and to protect the health of our community, our meeting is postponed until a later date. For now, here is some pretty valuable info. I will keep you updated when we get closer to deciding on a new date.
Stay well! Cristina
Even though the Coronavirus has us all cooped up, there are still many things you can do for your business right now that will benefit you in the near future.
Here are just a few ideas… 20, to be exact.
Marketing plan – write or revise
Reconcile receipts
Finish your 2019 taxes
Research emergency loan options (see below for more info)
Research expanded unemployment coverage – sole proprietors and independent contractors are now eligible
Update your website content or make notes for your web manager
Update and expand upon your business description
Write or update your professional bio
Check and update online profiles
Respond to reviews – Google and Yelp have put a hold on reviews for now
Write new social media posts for the next few weeks
Take new photos of your space or products
Reach out to clients to check-in
Organize your workspace
Listen to professional growth podcasts
Make a list of last years big accomplishments and wins – it’s ok to brag!
Write down new or updated business goals
Watch how-to videos or take online courses to up your game
Design or update your print marketing materials such as business cards, brochures, etc.
Clean out your email inbox.
Our friends at the Sanford – Springvale Chamber of Commerce have compiled an excellent page of business-related information which includes valuable resources for business owners both small and large. This page is updated regularly. Check it out here.
Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide & Checklist
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program, the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses.
Importantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls during the crisis or restore their payrolls afterward.
The administration soon will release more details including the list of lenders offering loans under the program. In the meantime, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has issued this guide to help small businesses and self-employed individuals prepare to file for a loan.
This fact sheet covers the questions you may be asking— and what you need to know, including:
Am I eligible?
What will lenders be looking for?
What will lenders NOT be looking for?
How much can I borrow?
And more