COVID-19 Resources and Information
Below you will find a comprehensive list of resources pertaining to the COVID-19 response. This guide will be updated regularly-- please check our website and Facebook page for updates.
Low-Interest Loan Available Through the Southwestern Commission
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The Southwestern Commission is now offering new, low-interest loan funds through an award from the US Economic Development Administration as part of the Federal CARES Act.

These loans are available to businesses, non-profits, and governmental units.

Eligible Uses: Machinery and equipment, construction and renovation, land and property acquisition, and working capital
Unemployment Resources and Employment Services
Unemployment Insurance

The recent COVID aid legislation has provided for an additional $300/week in unemployment for those who qualify (Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation). The fastest and most efficient way to apply for unemployment benefits is to create an online account and file online at
www.des.nc.gov • 888.737.0259

Employment Services

For individuals who are seeking assistance with employment, NCWorks Career Centers are available to help! Centers offer the following services:

  • Career Counseling 
  • Job Search 
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Skills Training 
  • Veteran Services 
  • Reentry Services

To find a center near you go to: www.ncworks.gov.
US Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program 2.0
The US Small Business Administration has begun accepting applications for the newest round of Paycheck Protection Program loans. These loans are available for new participants in this program as well as businesses who have previously received funding through this program.

Mountain BizWorks has a great website with more information about this program and how to apply.
Mountain BizWorks' ScaleUp 2021 and Other Learning Opportunities for Businesses
Mountain BizWorks is accepting applications for ScaleUp 2021. ScaleUp is an intensive cohort-based program for existing WNC small businesses with strong growth potential. If you know of a small business that could benefit from this program, you can send a recommendation to matt@mountainbizworks.org.

In addition to ScaleUP, Mountain BizWorks also offers a lengthy lineup of other learning opportunities for businesses. Check out a list of upcoming courses on their events page.
COVID Vaccinations Resources
COVID-19 vaccinations are now available to people 65 and older and health care workers.

Because vaccine supplies are still limited, you may have to wait. Here is how to take your shot against COVID-19:

  • Supplies are very limited. Right now, very few vaccine doses are available.
  • You will likely need an appointment to get vaccinated. You may have to wait to schedule your appointment to get your vaccine.
  • Your local health department or hospital can help you get your shot. Because supplies are very limited right now, most doctors cannot provide vaccinations in their offices.
  • Find your local health department or hospital. Use the table on the right to find the health departments and hospitals giving vaccinations in your area. Because vaccine supplies are very limited, providers on this list may have very little to no vaccine doses available when you contact them.
  • You can also call the COVID-19 Line 1-877-490-6642. It’s a free call.

NC Dept of Health and Human Services
1-800-662-7030
For COVID-19 questions call 2-1-1
828-837-7486 (to schedule appointment)

828-389-8052

Enrolled Members will be contacted. Check for updates on the EBCI website.

828-479-7900

828-356-2019 (COVID-19 hotline)

828-587-8289 (to schedule appointment);
828-631-4357

828-349-2517 or 828-586-7670

828-586-7670

828-586-7670

828-488-3198
Additional Resources for Businesses in WNC
Who Is Hiring in Our Region?
The Southwestern Commission's Workforce Development Department has compiled a list of businesses that are hiring in Southwestern North Carolina. This list will be updated regularly, so visit the link below to see any changes.
County Resources for Local Businesses
Local entities continue to provide resources for businesses. Several months ago, several counties created resources to help local businesses by offering loan programs to businesses and nonprofits who have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis.

Haywood County has created the Haywood Recovery Fund, Jackson County has created the All in Jackson Fund, and Macon County has created the Reopening Macon Fund.
Interactive Map of Wifi Hotspots in the Region
The Southwestern Commission has collected and mapped all free public wireless internet hotspot locations throughout the region. The interactive map below can be used to find the address and other pertinent information for each location.

If you know of any other hotspots that are free to the public, please send any information to Becca Scott (becca@regiona.org).

Resources Specific to Local Governments
Southwestern Commission | Website