Having problems viewing this message? View it online. Monday, April 13, 2020 STAFFORD'S COVID-19 BUSINESS RESOURCES & UPDATES Later this week, the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA) will issue new and revised guidelines for a second round of grant funding to Stafford small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
The EDA set aside $250,000 in limited funds and announced the Stafford Small Business Coronavirus Disaster Assistance Grant Fund on March 27. By April 3, we had received a total of 109 applications requesting grant amounts of over $450,000. Approximately 43 businesses were awarded grants. The number of total awardees is still pending, subject to complete application or confirmation of being current on County taxes.
The EDA will revise its Round Two grant guidelines to allow applications for business that employ 1-5 persons ($2,500), 6-25 employees ($5,000), and 26-50 employees ($7,500). The EDA has authorized a total of $200,000 in total funds for Round Two. Those that applied previously with less than five employees may now be eligible and only need to submit an updated application form. As we are still processing Round One grants, guidelines and applications will be issued later this week. PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM VS. ECONOMIC INJURY DISASTER LOAN We encourage all eligible businesses to apply, if you have not to the federal SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) as well as other programs we have found and listed on our website. Provided below is a helpful graphic that explains the differences between SBA's PPP and EIDL. TOURISM UPDATE Stafford’s favorite restaurants, bistros, bakeries, grocery stores, and other food services are still open during these challenging times. Many are offering services such as take-out, delivery, or both. We continue to encourage all businesses and residents to call or check local establishment's websites and social media for meal options. Visit www.ToGoStafford.com for a list of participating Stafford restaurants. Join the Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association every Tuesday for Takeout Tuesday >>
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS RESOURCES & UPDATES Intuit launched a new AI-driven platform to help consumers and small businesses navigate U.S. government aid and relief programs; including a calculation estimate on how much aid small businesses are eligible to receive, and how much relief will likely be forgiven. Click here for more details >>
Germanna Community College is offering online professional development classes as well as new 5-week credit courses. You can take classes from the comfort of your own home. For more information, click here >>
New Coronavirus guidance issued to intelligence agency contractors >>
Please continue to visit our Coronavirus Business Resource website as information and resources available to you are updating constantly. Our Economic Development and Tourism team is here to provide up to date information and resources during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Lastly, if you have any questions, concerns, or opportunities during these challenging times, do not hesitate to contact us. Stafford County Department of Economic Development & Tourism GoStaffordVA.com | 540-658-8681 | [email protected] |