COVID-19 Resources
- Business Resources - information on resources available to small businesses
- Community Resources - information on resources and services available to our community
Latest Updates
8/5/2020
Paycheck Protection Program Deadline
The extended deadline for applying for the Paycheck Protection Program is August 8, 2020. For additional information on the PPP, click here.
Second Round of COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program to Open Soon
The COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program will reopen for its second application window at 9 a.m. on August 10 and will remain open for 15 business days before closing at 11:59 p.m. on August 28.
Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000 based on eligibility. For additional information on eligibility or to start an application, click here.
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7/29/2020
Free and Creative Ways to Promote Your Business
From boosting your visuals to rewarding your loyal customers, there are several effective and affordable ways to spread the word about your business. Learn more from this new article published by the US Chamber.
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7/22/2020
COVID-19 Hazard Pay Grant Program
The COVID-19 PA Hazard Pay Grant Program was established to help employers provide hazard pay to employees in life-sustaining occupations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Hazard pay is intended to keep front-line employees working in sectors that are vital to every Pennsylvanians’ existence. The program will help employers provide hazard pay for their employees to retain current employees. This reimbursement-based grant is for employers who will be offering hazard pay over the eligible program period.
For information on eligibility requirements, use of funds and application information, click here. Additional program guidelines can be found here. Applications will be received between July 16 and July 31, 2020.
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7/15/2020
PPP Loan Extension
Recent legislation has extended the deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program. The deadline to apply for a PPP loan is now August 8, 2020. For more information about PPP, click here.
SBA Programs Every Small Business Should Know About
The US Chamber recently released an article highlighting seven Small Business Administration (SBA) programs that every small business should be familiar with. The SBA offers opportunities for federal contracting dollars, grants and more. To view the full list of programs, click here.
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7/1/2020
COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program Now Open
The COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program is now open. Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000 based on eligibility. The program is NOT first-come, first-served. There will be multiple rounds of application windows. Applications will be prioritized and selected based on program criteria. The first application window opened yesterday and will remain open for ten business days. For additional information on eligibility or to start an application, click here.
All eligible businesses must apply through a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in the county that their business is located. CDFIs for Adams County can be found here.
SBA Launches Lender Match
The Small Business Administration (SBA)'s Lender Match is a free online tool that connects small businesses with SBA-approved CDFIs and small lenders. The tool is not for businesses looking for disaster loans.
What Does Green Phase Mean?
Adams County has been in the green phase since June 12, but there is still confusion on what exactly green phase means. Last week, the PA Chamber hosted a webinar to address some of the questions surrounding green phase, including do's and don'ts. To view the handouts from the webinar and to view the webinar itself, click here.
How to Get Customers to Return to Your Business
The U.S Chamber has published an article featuring five ways for businesses to encourage customers to visit their physical locations. The article includes questions your business should be able to answer and ways to set the right tone for your consumer base. Click here to view the full article.
Social Media Tactics to Attract Customers
The U.S. Chamber also published an article featuring five social media tactics businesses can use to attract customers. Their tips for attracting customers can be found here.
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6/24/2020
Small Business Administration Reopens Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Advance Program to Eligible Small Businesses & Non-Profits
Last week the Small Business Administration (SBA) reopened its portal for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and the EIDL Advance Program for eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19. SBA's press release can be found here. For additional information about Disaster Loan applications, click here.
Adams County Relief Programs
The Adams Economic Alliance has compiled a chart of relief programs available to Adams County businesses and organizations. The chart includes information on eligibility, deadlines and more. Click here to view the chart.
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6/17/2020
Adams Economic Alliance Announces $1.18 Million Awarded to Adams County Businesses
Adams Economic Alliance announced that a total of 15 Adams County businesses received a combined total of $1,186,950 of the state’s COVID-19 Working Capital Access (CWCA) Program administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).The state approved 747 applications of the 900 received for a combined statewide total of $60,890,640 in loans. The Alliance served as the bridge between Adams County businesses and the state’s emergency loan program, developed under PIDA’s Small Business First Fund.
Numerous resources including loan and grant programs remain available; they are gathered on the home page of the Alliance’s website, adamsalliance.org.
Customer Compliance with COVID-19 Policies
The U.S. Chamber recently released an article about how to get customers to comply with COVID-19 policies your business may have or may be putting in place upon reopening. To learn more, click here.
Keeping Employees Safe During COVID-19
The U.S. Chamber also released an article pertaining to reconfiguring office spaces to enhance worker safety. More information can be found here.
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6/10/2020
Adams County to Enter Green Phase on June 12
As Adams County and surrounding counties move into green phase this Friday, June 12, here are some of the guidelines issued by the Governor's office:
Work & Congregate Setting Restrictions:
PPP Flexibility Act Signed into Law
President Trump signed the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act into law on June 5. This act will allow changes to be made to the PPP including:
Small Business Grant Program Introduced by Gov. Wolf
Governor Wolf recently announced a $225 million statewide grant program to support small businesses that were impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis and subsequent business closure order.
The funding was developed in partnership with state lawmakers and allocated through the recently enacted state budget, which included $2.6 billion in federal stimulus funds through the CARES Act, of which $225 million was earmarked for relief for small businesses.
The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will distribute the funds to the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which will then administer the funding in the form of grants.
Eligible businesses will be able to use a new grant program to cover:
Interested businesses in Adams County may apply through the Community First Fund.
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6/3/2020
Gov. Wolf Announce Additional Guidance About Green Phase and Dining
Gov. Wolf's updated green phase guidelines announced on May 22 can be found here. Additionally, on June 5, restaurants and retail food service businesses located in counties designated as being in the Yellow Phase are permitted to add dine-in service in outdoor seating areas so long as they strictly adhere to the requirements of the guidance, including maximum occupancy limits. To find out more about Yellow Phase dining (and Green Phase dining), click here.
PUA to Send Paper Checks
Due to attempted fraud, claimants in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance system will now receive benefits via paper checks delivered by the U.S. Postal Service instead of receiving payments by direct deposit for the foreseeable future. More information can be found here.
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5/27/2020
Guide to PPP Loan Forgiveness
The U.S. Chamber recently published a new guide about the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and loan forgiveness. The guide can be found here. This guide will be updated as more information becomes available.
COVID-19 Library of Resources
The Manufacturers' Association recently launched a library of resources on their website related to COVID-19. The library features information on many topics including: returning to work, workplace policies, financial assistance and webinars. To visit the library, click here.
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5/20/2020
Transitioning to Yellow Phase
This past Friday, May 15, Gov. Wolf officially announced that on Friday, May 22, both Adams County and York County will officially move from Red Phase to Yellow Phase.
The Yellow Phase Guidelines can be found here. Here are some additional resources:
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5/13/2020
The Manufacturers' Association: Returning to Work Post-Coronavirus Checklist
The Manufacturers' Association recently released a checklist to help employers prepare for returning to the physical workplace. The checklist can be found here.
Additionally, the Manufacturers' Association hosted a webinar last week entitled "Reopening Checklist and UC Mitigation Strategies." The webinar can be viewed in full here. The slideshow from the webinar is available here.
PA Chamber of Business & Industry Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business & Industry will host a free webinar tomorrow (Thursday, May 14) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The webinar is entitled "Creating Organizational Focus in Unknown Environments." The speakers will introduce tools and techniques sharpened on the front lines to help business leaders maneuver through this time of unpredictability. You can register for the webinar here.
Additional Guidance on Maintaining Safe Operations During COVID-19 Pandemic
The Governor's office has issued additional guidance on ensuring safe operations during the pandemic. The latest information can be found here.
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5/6/2020
U.S. Chamber Business Resources
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently released additional resources based on the federal government's response to the pandemic including:
PA Chamber to Host Healthcare-Related Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry will be hosting a webinar called "Strategies to Maintain Your Healthcare Costs Due to COVID-19" on Thursday, May 7 from 1 to 2 p.m. This free webinar will cover the following topics:
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4/24/2020
Payroll Protection Program Webinar
The PA Chamber Educational Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association will be hosting a webinar about the Payroll Protection Program on Monday, April 27 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The webinar will cover the following topics:
"Bringing PA Back" Initiative Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business & Industry hosted a webinar on Wednesday to introduce the "Bringing Back PA" initiative and solicit feedback from leaders across the PA business community. The full webinar is available here.
Plan for Pennsylvania
The Governor's office has provided additional details on the plan to reopen Pennsylvania. The plan features three phases - red, yellow and green. All PA counties are currently considered red. For additional details, click here.
Construction Start Date Moved to May 1
Construction in Pennsylvania will now be permitted to begin on May 1. The Governor's office has issued specific guidelines for the construction industry's reopening which can be found here.
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4/21/2020
"Bringing PA Back" Initiative Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry will be hosting a free webinar tomorrow (Wednesday, April 22) from 11 a.m. to noon. The webinar will introduce the "Bringing Back PA" initiative and solicit feedback from leaders across the PA business community regarding economic, policy and resource needs. For more details or to register, click here.
Plan for Pennsylvania
Last week, Gov. Wolf rolled out his Plan for Pennsylvania, which focuses on three parts: relief, reopening and recovery. For in-depth details about the plan, click here.
Limited Construction to Resume May 8
Gov. Wolf announced yesterday that public and private residential and non-residential construction may resume statewide starting Friday, May 8, in accordance with safety guidance (to be released in the near future). Construction projects already deemed life-sustaining may continue while adhering to social distancing, personnel limits, etc.
Car Sales May Now Be Conducted Online
Senate Bill 841, which allows remote notarization, was signed into law by Gov. Wolf yesterday. This bill will allow auto dealerships to conduct limited car sales and leasing operations via online sales only. In-person sales remain prohibited for the time being. To learn more, click here.
COVID-19 Job Portal
PA CareerLink has launched a page for COVID-19 Employment Opportunities, which features job postings from life-sustaining businesses. If you are a life-sustaining business looking to hire employees during this time, you can fill out a form to be added to the website.
The New Oxford Chamber website also features a job board for member businesses. If you are hiring, send us an email so we can add you to the job board.
Accelerated Sales Tax Prepayments
Businesses will not need to make accelerated sales tax prepayments over the next three months. Businesses will only need to remit the sales tax they collected in the prior month. More information is available here.
Independent Contractor Guide to CARES Act Relief
The U.S. Chamber has a guide about the CARES Act specifically for independent contractors and the self-employed. Additional details can be found here. Please note that some of the loan programs are currently depleted and are waiting for possible replenishment.
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4/13/2020
Adams County Food Resource Map
If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity during this time (or any time), South Central Community Action Programs and Adams County have a Food Resources map available here.
Cleaning & Maintenance at Life-Sustaining Businesses During COVID-19
The Pennsylvania Dept. of Health recently released information on cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining life-sustaining buildings and businesses during COVID-19. For the official release, including specific guidelines, click here.
Emergency Agricultural Assistance Grants
In partnership with Team Pennsylvania, GIANT Company is providing $250,000 in funding for an emergency grant program to support farms, processors and other small food businesses involved in the state's food supply chain that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications opened on Friday, April 10 and will close on Friday, April 24. The aforementioned businesses are eligible for a maximum award of $15,000 per business. More details here.
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4/7/2020
Paycheck Protection Program
The Payment Protection Program (PPP) launched this past Friday, April 3. There have been difficulties reported in applying for PPP. More information on PPP can be found here. Those applying are encouraged to reach out to their bank for further assistance.
Manufacturing Call to Action Portal
Governor Wolf has launched a Manufacturing Call to Action portal in response to the ongoing need for PPE and other medical supplies. The goal of the portal is to:
Hoffman Homes for Youth Seeking Donations
As an essential business caring for children, Hoffman Homes is continuing to operate 24/7. In addition to health and safety items, they are also looking for arts, crafts and games the children can utilize to stay entertained during this difficult time.
They are accepting the following items:
Mental Health Services Available
The state's Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the launch of the Support & Referral Helpline on Friday, April 3. Staff will be available 24/7 to help Pennsylvanians in need at 1 (855) 284-2494. Additional resources can be found here.
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4/2/2020
BUSINESS EXEMPTIONS
The deadline to apply for business exemptions to the Governor's non-life-sustaining business closure order is tomorrow (Friday, April 3 at 5 p.m.). After that time, the submission period will be closed. Here is the link to the Business Exemption Waiver.
SBA EMERGENCY LOAN WEBINAR
The Small Business Administration will be hosting a webinar on Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to assist businesses applying for SBA loans. This free webinar will be held at: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/26697
PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
The application will open tomorrow (Friday, April 3) for businesses & sole proprietors. Applications for independent contractors and self-employed individuals begins on Friday, April 10. Additional resources about this program and others can be found here. Thank you to BSSF CPAs & Business Advisors for providing this information.
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3/30/2020
Federal Stimulus Package
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act - The legislation provides for $350 billion financing to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus.
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3/26/2020
COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program
This program will deliver loans to for-profit businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees. The program is part of the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA's) Small Business First Fund.
Federal Stimulus Package
We will continue to monitor the progress of the proposed stimulus package and will provide more information once it is available.
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3/24/2020
8/5/2020
Paycheck Protection Program Deadline
The extended deadline for applying for the Paycheck Protection Program is August 8, 2020. For additional information on the PPP, click here.
Second Round of COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program to Open Soon
The COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program will reopen for its second application window at 9 a.m. on August 10 and will remain open for 15 business days before closing at 11:59 p.m. on August 28.
Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000 based on eligibility. For additional information on eligibility or to start an application, click here.
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7/29/2020
Free and Creative Ways to Promote Your Business
From boosting your visuals to rewarding your loyal customers, there are several effective and affordable ways to spread the word about your business. Learn more from this new article published by the US Chamber.
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7/22/2020
COVID-19 Hazard Pay Grant Program
The COVID-19 PA Hazard Pay Grant Program was established to help employers provide hazard pay to employees in life-sustaining occupations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Hazard pay is intended to keep front-line employees working in sectors that are vital to every Pennsylvanians’ existence. The program will help employers provide hazard pay for their employees to retain current employees. This reimbursement-based grant is for employers who will be offering hazard pay over the eligible program period.
For information on eligibility requirements, use of funds and application information, click here. Additional program guidelines can be found here. Applications will be received between July 16 and July 31, 2020.
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7/15/2020
PPP Loan Extension
Recent legislation has extended the deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program. The deadline to apply for a PPP loan is now August 8, 2020. For more information about PPP, click here.
SBA Programs Every Small Business Should Know About
The US Chamber recently released an article highlighting seven Small Business Administration (SBA) programs that every small business should be familiar with. The SBA offers opportunities for federal contracting dollars, grants and more. To view the full list of programs, click here.
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7/1/2020
COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program Now Open
The COVID-19 Relief Statewide Small Business Assistance Program is now open. Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000 based on eligibility. The program is NOT first-come, first-served. There will be multiple rounds of application windows. Applications will be prioritized and selected based on program criteria. The first application window opened yesterday and will remain open for ten business days. For additional information on eligibility or to start an application, click here.
All eligible businesses must apply through a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in the county that their business is located. CDFIs for Adams County can be found here.
SBA Launches Lender Match
The Small Business Administration (SBA)'s Lender Match is a free online tool that connects small businesses with SBA-approved CDFIs and small lenders. The tool is not for businesses looking for disaster loans.
What Does Green Phase Mean?
Adams County has been in the green phase since June 12, but there is still confusion on what exactly green phase means. Last week, the PA Chamber hosted a webinar to address some of the questions surrounding green phase, including do's and don'ts. To view the handouts from the webinar and to view the webinar itself, click here.
How to Get Customers to Return to Your Business
The U.S Chamber has published an article featuring five ways for businesses to encourage customers to visit their physical locations. The article includes questions your business should be able to answer and ways to set the right tone for your consumer base. Click here to view the full article.
Social Media Tactics to Attract Customers
The U.S. Chamber also published an article featuring five social media tactics businesses can use to attract customers. Their tips for attracting customers can be found here.
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6/24/2020
Small Business Administration Reopens Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Advance Program to Eligible Small Businesses & Non-Profits
Last week the Small Business Administration (SBA) reopened its portal for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and the EIDL Advance Program for eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19. SBA's press release can be found here. For additional information about Disaster Loan applications, click here.
Adams County Relief Programs
The Adams Economic Alliance has compiled a chart of relief programs available to Adams County businesses and organizations. The chart includes information on eligibility, deadlines and more. Click here to view the chart.
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6/17/2020
Adams Economic Alliance Announces $1.18 Million Awarded to Adams County Businesses
Adams Economic Alliance announced that a total of 15 Adams County businesses received a combined total of $1,186,950 of the state’s COVID-19 Working Capital Access (CWCA) Program administered by the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) and the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).The state approved 747 applications of the 900 received for a combined statewide total of $60,890,640 in loans. The Alliance served as the bridge between Adams County businesses and the state’s emergency loan program, developed under PIDA’s Small Business First Fund.
Numerous resources including loan and grant programs remain available; they are gathered on the home page of the Alliance’s website, adamsalliance.org.
Customer Compliance with COVID-19 Policies
The U.S. Chamber recently released an article about how to get customers to comply with COVID-19 policies your business may have or may be putting in place upon reopening. To learn more, click here.
Keeping Employees Safe During COVID-19
The U.S. Chamber also released an article pertaining to reconfiguring office spaces to enhance worker safety. More information can be found here.
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6/10/2020
Adams County to Enter Green Phase on June 12
As Adams County and surrounding counties move into green phase this Friday, June 12, here are some of the guidelines issued by the Governor's office:
Work & Congregate Setting Restrictions:
- Telework strongly encouraged
- In-person operations must follow the COVID-19 Business Guidance
- Businesses operating at 50% capacity may increase to 75% capacity
- Childcare may open (Guidance here)
- Congregate care restrictions in place
- Prison and hospital restrictions determined by individual facilities
- Schools subject to CDC and Commonwealth guidance
- Large gatherings of more than 250 people prohibited
- Restaurants and bars open at 50% occupancy
- Personal care services, open at 50% occupancy by appointment only
- Indoor recreation, health and wellness facilities open at 50% occupancy with appointments strongly encouraged
- All entertainment (casinos, theaters, shopping malls open at 50% occupancy
- Construction activity may return to full capacity in accordance with the Construction Guidance
PPP Flexibility Act Signed into Law
President Trump signed the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act into law on June 5. This act will allow changes to be made to the PPP including:
- Extended Cover Period - The covered period may be extended from 8 weeks to 24 weeks. Businesses with existing PPP loans may continue with the 8 week covered period or extend to 24 weeks.Note that no new PPP loans may be originated after June 30.
- Payroll Percentage - The percentage of the loan that must be spent on payroll was lowered from 75% to 60%. Note that businesses must use at least 60% of the total loan on payroll or the loan will NOT be forgiven.
- Wage and Employment Level Safe Harbors - Businesses have until Dec. 31, 2020 to restore the level of full-time employees and wage levels.
- Deferral and Extension of Time for Loan Repayments - PPP loan recipients can defer principal and interest payments on any portion of PPP loans that are not forgiven. The term of the PPP loans were extended from two to five years.
- Deferral of Payroll Taxes - Recepients can now defer payment of the employer share of Social Security Tax through Dec. 31, 2020. The original PPP prohibited employers from deferring Social Security taxes after any portion of the PPP loan was forgiven. Deferred employer taxes will be due in two equal payments in Dec. 2021 & Dec. 2022.
Small Business Grant Program Introduced by Gov. Wolf
Governor Wolf recently announced a $225 million statewide grant program to support small businesses that were impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis and subsequent business closure order.
The funding was developed in partnership with state lawmakers and allocated through the recently enacted state budget, which included $2.6 billion in federal stimulus funds through the CARES Act, of which $225 million was earmarked for relief for small businesses.
The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will distribute the funds to the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), which will then administer the funding in the form of grants.
Eligible businesses will be able to use a new grant program to cover:
- Operating expenses during the shutdown, to transition to re-opening
- Technical assistance including training and guidance for business owners as they stabilize and relaunch their businesses
Interested businesses in Adams County may apply through the Community First Fund.
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6/3/2020
Gov. Wolf Announce Additional Guidance About Green Phase and Dining
Gov. Wolf's updated green phase guidelines announced on May 22 can be found here. Additionally, on June 5, restaurants and retail food service businesses located in counties designated as being in the Yellow Phase are permitted to add dine-in service in outdoor seating areas so long as they strictly adhere to the requirements of the guidance, including maximum occupancy limits. To find out more about Yellow Phase dining (and Green Phase dining), click here.
PUA to Send Paper Checks
Due to attempted fraud, claimants in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance system will now receive benefits via paper checks delivered by the U.S. Postal Service instead of receiving payments by direct deposit for the foreseeable future. More information can be found here.
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5/27/2020
Guide to PPP Loan Forgiveness
The U.S. Chamber recently published a new guide about the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and loan forgiveness. The guide can be found here. This guide will be updated as more information becomes available.
COVID-19 Library of Resources
The Manufacturers' Association recently launched a library of resources on their website related to COVID-19. The library features information on many topics including: returning to work, workplace policies, financial assistance and webinars. To visit the library, click here.
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5/20/2020
Transitioning to Yellow Phase
This past Friday, May 15, Gov. Wolf officially announced that on Friday, May 22, both Adams County and York County will officially move from Red Phase to Yellow Phase.
The Yellow Phase Guidelines can be found here. Here are some additional resources:
- Official Announcement from the Governor's Office
- COVID-19 Business Guidance
- Reopening FAQ
- The Manufacturers' Association's Returning to the Workplace Checklist
- CDC Worker Safety & Response - information for various industries, including manufacturing and retail
- CDC Guidance for Businesses & Employers
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5/13/2020
The Manufacturers' Association: Returning to Work Post-Coronavirus Checklist
The Manufacturers' Association recently released a checklist to help employers prepare for returning to the physical workplace. The checklist can be found here.
Additionally, the Manufacturers' Association hosted a webinar last week entitled "Reopening Checklist and UC Mitigation Strategies." The webinar can be viewed in full here. The slideshow from the webinar is available here.
PA Chamber of Business & Industry Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business & Industry will host a free webinar tomorrow (Thursday, May 14) from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The webinar is entitled "Creating Organizational Focus in Unknown Environments." The speakers will introduce tools and techniques sharpened on the front lines to help business leaders maneuver through this time of unpredictability. You can register for the webinar here.
Additional Guidance on Maintaining Safe Operations During COVID-19 Pandemic
The Governor's office has issued additional guidance on ensuring safe operations during the pandemic. The latest information can be found here.
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5/6/2020
U.S. Chamber Business Resources
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently released additional resources based on the federal government's response to the pandemic including:
- OSHA’s Response to Workplace Safety and Coronavirus Exposure
- Health Coverage Options
- Unemployment Insurance under the CARES Act
PA Chamber to Host Healthcare-Related Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry will be hosting a webinar called "Strategies to Maintain Your Healthcare Costs Due to COVID-19" on Thursday, May 7 from 1 to 2 p.m. This free webinar will cover the following topics:
- A review of data as it relates to COVID-19 and how this is increasing healthcare costs for companies – the big picture view of the overall problem
- How Innovu can provide strategies for maintaining your healthcare and pharmaceutical costs through data analytics
- Using data analytics applied to your specific company’s scenario, how Innovu can share insights and help you to plan for future healthcare and pharmaceutical costs; and how the analytics can also help you plan your future employee benefits packages
- With Innovu’s experience in healthcare analytics, we will provide best practices all companies should consider following to maintain their healthcare costs
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4/24/2020
Payroll Protection Program Webinar
The PA Chamber Educational Foundation and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association will be hosting a webinar about the Payroll Protection Program on Monday, April 27 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The webinar will cover the following topics:
- A review of the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) elements and what this means for business
- Who is qualified to receive a loan under the PPP
- What process most banks follow to determine how the loans are administered
- The process small businesses or non-profit should follow to apply for the loan
- The minimal requirements to be eligible
- How loan forgiveness is defined
- Best practices for compliance
- Latest update on COVID-19 for PA employers
"Bringing PA Back" Initiative Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business & Industry hosted a webinar on Wednesday to introduce the "Bringing Back PA" initiative and solicit feedback from leaders across the PA business community. The full webinar is available here.
Plan for Pennsylvania
The Governor's office has provided additional details on the plan to reopen Pennsylvania. The plan features three phases - red, yellow and green. All PA counties are currently considered red. For additional details, click here.
Construction Start Date Moved to May 1
Construction in Pennsylvania will now be permitted to begin on May 1. The Governor's office has issued specific guidelines for the construction industry's reopening which can be found here.
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4/21/2020
"Bringing PA Back" Initiative Webinar
The PA Chamber of Business and Industry will be hosting a free webinar tomorrow (Wednesday, April 22) from 11 a.m. to noon. The webinar will introduce the "Bringing Back PA" initiative and solicit feedback from leaders across the PA business community regarding economic, policy and resource needs. For more details or to register, click here.
Plan for Pennsylvania
Last week, Gov. Wolf rolled out his Plan for Pennsylvania, which focuses on three parts: relief, reopening and recovery. For in-depth details about the plan, click here.
Limited Construction to Resume May 8
Gov. Wolf announced yesterday that public and private residential and non-residential construction may resume statewide starting Friday, May 8, in accordance with safety guidance (to be released in the near future). Construction projects already deemed life-sustaining may continue while adhering to social distancing, personnel limits, etc.
Car Sales May Now Be Conducted Online
Senate Bill 841, which allows remote notarization, was signed into law by Gov. Wolf yesterday. This bill will allow auto dealerships to conduct limited car sales and leasing operations via online sales only. In-person sales remain prohibited for the time being. To learn more, click here.
COVID-19 Job Portal
PA CareerLink has launched a page for COVID-19 Employment Opportunities, which features job postings from life-sustaining businesses. If you are a life-sustaining business looking to hire employees during this time, you can fill out a form to be added to the website.
The New Oxford Chamber website also features a job board for member businesses. If you are hiring, send us an email so we can add you to the job board.
Accelerated Sales Tax Prepayments
Businesses will not need to make accelerated sales tax prepayments over the next three months. Businesses will only need to remit the sales tax they collected in the prior month. More information is available here.
Independent Contractor Guide to CARES Act Relief
The U.S. Chamber has a guide about the CARES Act specifically for independent contractors and the self-employed. Additional details can be found here. Please note that some of the loan programs are currently depleted and are waiting for possible replenishment.
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4/13/2020
Adams County Food Resource Map
If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity during this time (or any time), South Central Community Action Programs and Adams County have a Food Resources map available here.
Cleaning & Maintenance at Life-Sustaining Businesses During COVID-19
The Pennsylvania Dept. of Health recently released information on cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining life-sustaining buildings and businesses during COVID-19. For the official release, including specific guidelines, click here.
Emergency Agricultural Assistance Grants
In partnership with Team Pennsylvania, GIANT Company is providing $250,000 in funding for an emergency grant program to support farms, processors and other small food businesses involved in the state's food supply chain that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications opened on Friday, April 10 and will close on Friday, April 24. The aforementioned businesses are eligible for a maximum award of $15,000 per business. More details here.
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4/7/2020
Paycheck Protection Program
The Payment Protection Program (PPP) launched this past Friday, April 3. There have been difficulties reported in applying for PPP. More information on PPP can be found here. Those applying are encouraged to reach out to their bank for further assistance.
Manufacturing Call to Action Portal
Governor Wolf has launched a Manufacturing Call to Action portal in response to the ongoing need for PPE and other medical supplies. The goal of the portal is to:
- Match manufacturers and distributors to fill specific supply chain needs to meet increasing demands for medical supplies and related products.
- Assist manufacturers that have workforce needs or gaps and aid them in identifying skilled workers.
- Identify manufacturers that can pivot or innovate to fulfill the demand for medical supplies and related products.
Hoffman Homes for Youth Seeking Donations
As an essential business caring for children, Hoffman Homes is continuing to operate 24/7. In addition to health and safety items, they are also looking for arts, crafts and games the children can utilize to stay entertained during this difficult time.
They are accepting the following items:
- hand sanitizer
- sanitizing wipes
- Fantastik All Purpose Cleaner
- paper plates, bowls and cups
- plastic cutlery
- arts and crafts supplies for the children
- sidewalk chalk
- outdoor games
Mental Health Services Available
The state's Department of Human Services (DHS) announced the launch of the Support & Referral Helpline on Friday, April 3. Staff will be available 24/7 to help Pennsylvanians in need at 1 (855) 284-2494. Additional resources can be found here.
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4/2/2020
BUSINESS EXEMPTIONS
The deadline to apply for business exemptions to the Governor's non-life-sustaining business closure order is tomorrow (Friday, April 3 at 5 p.m.). After that time, the submission period will be closed. Here is the link to the Business Exemption Waiver.
SBA EMERGENCY LOAN WEBINAR
The Small Business Administration will be hosting a webinar on Friday, April 3 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to assist businesses applying for SBA loans. This free webinar will be held at: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/26697
PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
The application will open tomorrow (Friday, April 3) for businesses & sole proprietors. Applications for independent contractors and self-employed individuals begins on Friday, April 10. Additional resources about this program and others can be found here. Thank you to BSSF CPAs & Business Advisors for providing this information.
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3/30/2020
Federal Stimulus Package
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act - The legislation provides for $350 billion financing to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus.
- Guide for Small Businesses
- For assistance with loans, please contact your local Economic Development Corporation. Adams County's is the Adams Economic Alliance.
- For additional information on the entire package, there is a thorough FAQ available on the New York Times website that will be updated as more information becomes available.
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3/26/2020
COVID-19 Working Capital Access Program
This program will deliver loans to for-profit businesses with 100 or fewer full-time employees. The program is part of the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA's) Small Business First Fund.
- $60 million available to provide loans of $100,000 or less for qualifying businesses.
- All loan applications must be submitted through a Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO). For our New Oxford and Adams County businesses, our CEDO is the Adams Economic Alliance. Applications are available here.
- For non-Adams County businesses, you can find your local CEDO here.
- For more information about the program overall, click here.
- This program is available to vulnerable, impacted businesses on a first-come, first-serve basis
Federal Stimulus Package
We will continue to monitor the progress of the proposed stimulus package and will provide more information once it is available.
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3/24/2020
- The SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program is available to small businesses and private non-profits due to COVID-19. Webinar training is available here (link takes you directly to Zoom login screen). Webinars will be held daily during the week through Friday, April 3 at noon. Call the Eastern PA SBA District Office at (610) 382-3062 with any questions about the training.The webinar will address the following topics:
- who is eligible for an SBA EIDL loan
- what you need to have in hand before filing your application
- Q&A time devoted to answer your specific questions
- Gov. Wolf has ordered all "non-life-sustaining" businesses to close their physical locations to slow the spread of coronavirus. The deadline to shut down was 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. Enforcement began Monday, March 23 at 8 a.m. "Failure to comply with these requirements will result in enforcement action that could include citations, fines, or license suspensions," according to Gov. Wolf.
- Governor's Order
- UPDATED: List of Life-Sustaining v Non-Life Sustaining Businesses - Note that restaurants can still offer take-out, delivery and drive through services at this time.
- Closure Exemption Appeal Process Form - Emails can be sent to [email protected]. You can also call 1-877-PA-HEALTH. The Manufacturers' Association recommends notifying your state legislator of your exemption request. You can find your legislator here.
- FAQs on “non-life sustaining” businesses – PA Department of Community and Economic Development
