Economic Development Update
COVID-19

The Department of Planning and Development will communicate important information and share business resources to enable you and your employees to stay safe and informed during these uncertain times.

City of Lowell Small Business Emergency Relief Grant Program

The City of Lowell, Economic Development Office has created a grant program available to Lowell’s small, independently owned, brick-and-mortar retailers, restaurants, and personal service businesses that have been most significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Grant awards of up to $5,000 are available to eligible businesses until funds have been depleted. Grants will be awarded on a case-by-case basis giving priority to small businesses that suffered the most financial impact. For the program guidelines, click here.

The application period will be OPEN on Monday, May 4 @ Noon through Monday, May 11 @ 4:00 PM

If you have questions about the Lowell Small Business Emergency Relief Grant Program, please contact our Economic Development team at  DoBizInLowell@lowellma.gov

For assistance in Spanish, contact: 978-654-5673

For assistance in Khmer, contact: 978-656-1127

For assistance in Portuguese, contact: 978-674-1435

Mask or Face Coverings Required in Public Places

Beginning on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 the use of masks or face coverings in public spaces will be required in Massachusetts. Any cloth face covering that covers your mouth and nose is suitable under this order. For recommendations from the CDC on DIY options, visit their website.
Gov. Baker Extends Non-Essential Business Closure to May 18

In addition to extending the closure of non-essential businesses to May 18, the Governor announced a Reopening Advisory Board to plan for safe opening of businesses.
Virtual Meeting with Mike Kennealy,
Secretary of Housing &Economic Development

This event is a partnership between the Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, Middlesex 3 Coalition and the City of Lowell.

Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, Mike Kennealy will be joining us , virtually, to discuss the current state of Massachusetts and the steps being taken to assist residents and businesses throughout the Commonwealth during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here for more information and to sign up.

#LowellTakeout

The  City of Lowell Economic Development Office  is partnering up with Mayor Leahy and the  Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce  to help support  #Lowell  restaurants during these uncertain times.

Order takeout from your favorite Lowell restaurant and earn a chance to win gift cards and apparel. Don't forget to tag us, and the restaurant, on Facebook.

Greater Lowell Spirit Week

Join Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce, the Lowell Plan, LDFC, and EforAll, and the City of Lowell us as we celebrate our community pride with a socially distanced spirit week.

Let’s flood our newsfeeds with positivity and show everyone why Greater Lowell is such an amazing place to live, work, play and go to school! 

Click here to learn how you can show your Greater Lowell Spirit and please join the event on Facebook ! 

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) provides payment to workers not traditionally eligible for unemployment benefits (self-employed, independent contractors, workers with limited work history, and others) who are unable to work as a direct result of the coronavirus public health emergency.

Prevent Layoffs with Rapid Response

The Massachusetts Department of Career Services (MDCS) uses the Rapid Response team for many important services. The team provides layoff aversion and early intervention services to companies and their employees for free. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds this federally-mandated program. This results in a smooth transition for all affected employees.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for Small Businesses:
How to Take Advantage before Funds Run Out

In anticipation of the second round of funding for the Paycheck Protection Program going live on Monday, the Boston Fed has created a  web page   with resources for New England smaller businesses including nonprofits to aid them in applying to this program. These resources may be helpful to your organization;  as well we strongly request that you forward this email to your networks that include smaller businesses/nonprofits as soon as possible.  It is anticipated that the second round of funding will run out quickly and that it is essential that applicants connect with a financial institution able to process their PPP loan immediately.

 The resource page includes:
  • An info sheet describing the program
  •  Links to other resources including program information and loan applications in 19 languages
  •  A list of technical assistance providers indicating they are able to help small businesses/nonprofits apply for the PPP
  • A list of financial institutions that are able to process PPP loans for non-customers​


Stay Informed about COVID-19

The City of Lowell will continue to post COVID-19 updates at http://lowellma.gov/coronavirus as more information becomes available. You can also sign up for the City's alert system t o receive emails, calls, or texts for critical updates.
Lowell COUNTS!

The  2020 Census  is the primary source of data on the nation’s population and economy. Census data is used to determine our political representation, inform business development and investment, and allocate government funds for our schools, roads, and other critical public services.

It's quick, easy, and confidential. The 2020 Census questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete. Do your part today at  2020census.gov .
City of Lowell, Department of Planning and Development
50 Arcand Drive, Lowell, MA, 01852