As you begin to take the necessary steps to reopen, we want to hear from you. Our survey asks two basic questions: what are you looking for us to provide as you reopen? Is there anything out there you're struggling with that isn't being addressed?
(Thank you to Mohawk Valley EDGE for sharing with us!)
MOVING NEW YORK FORWARD:
The New York Forward website provides comprehensive information and helpful resources outlining the regionally and industry-based reopening process.
Business owners must read the detailed guidelines for their industries and provide their digital signature affirming they have read and understand the document. Businesses that are operating now as essential businesses still need to read and affirm their guidance and print/utilize the safety plan template.
Reopening businesses must develop a written safety plan outlining how their workplace will prevent the spread of COVID-19. A business may fill out this template to fulfill the requirement, or may develop its own safety plan.
This plan does not need to be submitted to a state agency for approval but must be retained on the premises of the business and must made available to the New York State Department of Health (DOH) or local health or safety authorities in the event of an inspection. Business owners should refer to the State’s industry-specific guidance for more information on how to safely operate.
Over the coming days the NY Forward website will be updated with additional information as it becomes available. We encourage you to check back regularly for further guidance and details.
Oneida County has developed guidelines and resources to help businesses provide safe workplaces for their employees and customers as they come back online.
For questions pertaining to how to reopen your business using the Oneida County Toolkit email: RestartOC@ocgov.net
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES
UIDC COVID-19 Small Business Loan Program-NEW!
The objective of the Utica Industrial Development Corporation (UIDC) COVID-19 Loan Program (the “Program”) is to help existing companies in Oneida and Herkimer Counties keep existing jobs and maintain overall viability during and immediately after the Coronavirus global pandemic. This program will assist businesses in covering rental and utility costs, as well as short-term working capital needs, while much of the economy is shut down or beginning to reopen with operational limitations still in place.
The City of Utica in response to the COVID-19 pandemic is offering a number of incentives to City businesses including a zero-interest loan that can convert to a grant based on the retention of low to moderate-income individuals.
If you are a small business in the City of Utica with 25 employees or less, you may qualify!
