Colorado is often considered a “small business state," and we know that many of you are hurting, especially as Colorado's coronavirus-related stay-at-home order stretches through April. In fact, a just-released survey from WalletHub ranks Colorado as No. 25 on its list of “State Economies Most Exposed to Coronavirus."
Our goal at Pinnacol Assurance is to help our small business customers any way we can and usually that's by offering advice on claims management, health and safety. But today, we want to provide access to resources that can help small businesses adapt and thrive as we work through this tough time. The situation and resources are changing rapidly, so we will amend this list as new information becomes available.
This group, which is “dedicated to helping existing and new businesses grow and prosper in Colorado," offers information on how to create and retain jobs, secure loans, increase sales and more. The website, updated with COVID-19-related information, includes resources for services related to disaster loan applications, long-term planning, business preparedness and more. Find its COVID-19 Small Business Response Resources here.
Nationally the SBA is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to provide working capital to small businesses experiencing substantial economic losses due to the coronavirus. That includes all Colorado counties and some neighboring counties as well. Find out more about Colorado-specific loans or visit the Colorado SBA's website.
A division of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), the site offers a list of state and federal COVID-19 announcements, programs and information relevant to Colorado businesses, including a variety of resources specifically for small business support. You can also sign up here for a daily email update with business-related news and information.
The COVID-19 Business Resource Center helps small businesses access the support they need, with quick links to connect you with emergency small business loans; local, state and national health information; and guidelines from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, among other resources. Visit the Chamber's webpage to find out more.
This city-wide program provides up to $7,500 in cash grants to eligible small businesses that may have had to temporarily close, lay off staff or are struggling to pay rent and utilities. The program is being rolled out in monthly phases; visit the Denver Economic Development and Opportunity page for application details.
We wish everyone health and safety as we all adapt to what is, for now, a “new normal." For more information on coronavirus-related health and safety information, visit our COVID-19 resource center.