Tuesday October 13th, 2020
SBA and Treasury Announce Simpler PPP Forgiveness for Loans of $50,000 or Less and Webinar
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, released a simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $50,000 or less.

This action streamlines the PPP forgiveness process to provide financial and administrative relief to America’s smallest businesses while also ensuring sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
 
SBA and Treasury have also eased the burden on PPP lenders, allowing lenders to process forgiveness applications more swiftly. 
 
SBA began approving PPP forgiveness applications and remitting forgiveness payments to PPP lenders for PPP borrowers on October 2, 2020. SBA will continue to process all PPP forgiveness applications in an expeditious manner.

SBA will be hosting a webinar to discuss the new simpler forgiveness forms and process on October 14th for free. Sign up here.
SANTA'S WORKSHOP ABLE TO GO FORWARD WITH HOLIDAY ACTIVITY!
The Governor's office has provided guidance for Santa's Workshop on how to proceed with its plans for Holiday Stroll activities through the park during the upcoming holiday season, using the framework of guidelines for low risk art and entertainment. Santa's Workshop is one of the most special and historic attractions in the country and it is hoped this activity, which will be planned and conducted safely without rides and with limited numbers and distancing, can help to salvage at least one part of this year's lost operation.

The North Country Chamber has assisted many hundreds of businesses in the region in navigating the re-opening and safety planning processes, and we were pleased to reach out on behalf of Santa's Workshop for needed guidance on the pathway forward. The teamwork effort included the Chamber, Wilmington Town Supervisor Roy Holzer, the Whiteface Visitors Bureau and Senator Betty Little. The Essex County Health Dept. will also be asked to advise. We thank the Governor and his team for their responsiveness.

Now, on Dasher, on Dancer.....
WEBINAR: Employee Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
Please join the North Country Chamber of Commerce and guest speaker, Jaci Kelleher Esq. of Stafford Owens Law Firm as we explore the issues and impact of sexual and other harassment types in the workplace.

Participants of this virtual session will focus on prevention and intervention through looking at current NYS law and policies regarding harassment and discrimination and through recognizing the legal definition and conditions of sexual harassment. Finally, participants will learn strategies to create a safe, supportive and respectful work environment for everyone.

  • Dates: October 14, 2020
  • Times: 2pm - 4pm
  • Cost: $8.00 (member & partner chamber members) $16 (non-member)

This training is required annually for all employees in New York State and meets NYS compliance requirements.

Register for the training by clicking the buttons below, please note space is limited.
U.S. Chamber Statement on Delayed COVID Relief Aid
As you've likely seen, President Trump announced  that the White House would be stopping negotiations with House Democrats on coronavirus relief until after the election.

In response to the announcement, U.S. Chamber executive vice president and chief policy officer Neil Bradley released the following statement:
 
“Washington’s failure to enact additional COVID relief will be felt on Main Streets and at kitchen tables across the United States. It is especially disappointing given that less than a month ago a bipartisan group of Members of Congress outlined a reasonable compromise that would have provided the economy with the support it needs while helping our nation recover from this pandemic. Republican and Democratic leaders should follow their example.”
MOTIVATING - EMPOWERING - EDUCATIONAL
The North Country Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce our speakers and topics for this year’s Celebration of Women in Business, a virtual two day conference.

As we charter through these stressful times juggling our careers & families and taking on new responsibilities we are all trying to also manage our own physical and mental health. That is why each presentation has been respectfully put together with YOU in mind!
Small Business Webinars - Sponsored by the US Chamber
Join the US Chamber of Commerce October 13-15, 2020 for The Big Week for Small Business, three days of audience-driven discussions, powerful advice, unique networking moments, engaging breakout sessions, and practical strategies from business owners like you. Share your successes and challenges with your peers and gain the skills and perspective you need to come out on the other side stronger than ever.
QUICK LINKS:
  • Forward NY: Official State Website for opening procedures and guidelines.


  • Looking for Supplies: If your business is looking for hard to find protective products, we have created a list of businesses offering hand sanitizer, gloves, wipes, masks and other items.

  • SCORE: Visit Scores Coronavirus page for webinars and useful articles for small businesses.
To help the North Country reopen safely and meet the state and local mandates, The North Country Chamber of Commerce has created a comprehensive list of resources to navigate state and local requirements. Check out the home page for details. There is also a series of webinars available for businesses to help educate and provide answers to common questions.
Have Questions? We're here to help!

North Country Chamber of Commerce
518.563.1000