Small Business Relief in the Wake of Covid-19

While the threat of the virus is very real for many individuals, it is the small business owner and entrepreneur have become some of the hardest hit with the steps taken to prevent the virus from spreading. Government shutdowns and “shelter in place” orders have cause most local businesses to shut their doors, lose income and lay off employees.

While here at Hub Digital we believe the best way to combat Covid-19 is to social distance, we absolutely understand the impact this has on the business owner (we are small business owners ourselves). There’s been talk in the news of “disaster relief loans” and “stimulus packages” for small business owners but it can be really confusing what benefits are being offered or what different businesses could qualify for.

This article from The National Law Review does a great job explaining current disaster relief available for small business owners, as well as proposed legislation that is being discussed as I type.

One area of concern still is that of the self employed or contract worker. The current legislation proposed doesn’t have provisions written in to support those individuals working as contractors or solo entrepreneurs.

A great article recently published in USA Today talks about the plight of the entrepreneur, and what benefits organizations are lobbying for.

Now more than even small business owners and entrepreneurs need to band together to support each other during these tough times. What can you do to help?

• Fight for your rights - Reach out to your Representatives and implore them to remember the entrepreneur in all of this. The self employed make up over 1/3rd of the US workforce and drive over a Trillion Dollars in income, yet have ZERO of the benefits or protections other businesses have.

• Continue to Shop Local - Most stores and restaurants are continue to offer gift cards despite the closures. Pick one up to provide some relief for these businesses and treat yourself to something nice once things open back up again.

• Stay informed - Do you best to seek out information from sources like the SBA or local government. While things are still evolving, there is some light out there for the small business owner. If you’re unsure what you qualify for or are confused about the resources, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and ask. Most states have dedicated lines specifically for questions around this.

We will continue to share news and information as it becomes available, and as always we’re here to help. Hub Digital is offering FREE 45 minute calls for the entrepreneur or small business owner who needs help continuing to run their business through these times of uncertainty. Click here to schedule one now.