Eight things you need to know about the impact of COVID-19 on Saratoga County's economy.

1. What You Need to Know About the New USMCA Agreement and Trading With Canada

Last week, the Saratoga Partnership hosted a webinar about the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade agreement, highlighted the important trade relationship with Canada, and discussed how Saratoga County businesses can benefit from importing and exporting to Canada. Our panelists included Deputy Consul General of Canada, Khawar Nasim, Senior Director of Government Affairs, Business Council of New York State, Johnny Evers

Vice President, Mainfreight USA Tom Valentine, Chair, NY District Export Council, Andrea Ratay, Global New York, Senior International Trade Manager, Kathryn Bamberger. To see what the panelists had to say watch the recording of the webinar, or check out the the slide deck.

2. SBA and Treasury Announce Simpler PPP Forgiveness for Loans of $50,000 or Less

The Small Business Administration and the Treasury Department announced the long-anticipated move in Washington, D.C. as they released a new application that some PPP recipients can use starting immediately. "The Paycheck Protection Program has been an overwhelming success and served as a historic lifeline to America’s hurting small businesses and tens of millions of workers," SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza said in a statement. "The new form introduced today demonstrates our relentless commitment to using every tool in our toolbelt to help small businesses and the banks that have participated in this program." Click here to view the simpler loan forgiveness application. To assist navigating the ever changing dynamics of the PPP program the University at Albany will be offering a webinar next Tuesday. PPP Loan Forgiveness Program Changes Webinar will cover the following information:

3. Connecting New York State-Based Small Businesses With New Customers, Broader Markets and Bigger Opportunities.

Empire State Development and NY Department of Financial Services began a new program connecting New York's small business community with global e-commerce enablers who will provide training, technology, business services, and marketing support. This first-in-the-nation effort enables small businesses to access new customers, bigger markets and more opportunities. Read more about it here.

4. Recipe for Success: A Workshop for Food Entrepreneurs

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, NY is offering Recipe for Success: A Workshop for Food Entrepreneurs, Wednesday, October 21, 8:30-4:30, virtually via Zoom. Fee: $50 for the full day, or $30 for morning or afternoon session. Register by October 20 here, or contact CCE at 518-885-8995 or event coordinator, Diane Whitten, at dwhitten@cornell.edu. If you’re thinking of making and selling a favorite recipe, or even if you already have a small food business, the presenters of this program can give you guidance. Their experience and expertise in licensing a food product, processing, packaging, marketing, pricing and selling are an invaluable resource. The program also includes the basics of successful small business management. Current or potential food entrepreneurs are encouraged to attend. The workshop will include speakers from Cornell University Food Venture Center, NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets, NY Kitchen Company Food Consultant, SCORE Business Marketing and Counseling, and more.

5. Wall Street Versus Main Street: Why the disconnect?

On September 2, 2020, in the midst of the worst economic crisis since before World War II, the S&P 500 index reached a record level of 3,580, repre­senting a year-to-date increase of about 9 percent in value. Since then, the US stock market has been resilient in the face of continuing concerns about the global pandemic and the lingering recession. Some economists and investors claim that the stock market is no longer guided by economic fundamentals but is instead leading a life of its own—one detached from reality. Where is the disconnect, learn more here.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unwelcome reminder that health and the economy are inextricably linked. For this year alone, the estimated impact of the pandemic on the US economy is a 4 to 11 percent reduction in real GDP. Yet prior to COVID-19, health was not typically part of economic growth discussions; the policy debate often focused on controlling healthcare costs. McKinsey & Co estimates that poor health costs the United States about 16 percent of real GDP annually from premature deaths and lost productive potential among the working-age population. Does it need to be that way? Rethinking health as an investment will likely pay dividends. Read McKinsey's report for more on this issue.

7. The Capital District Regional Planning Commission Introduces Their Fall Webinar Series

The Capital District Regional Planning Commission (CDRPC), is hosting a fall webinar series that will delve into topics such as stormwater management, COVID impacts on planning, transportation, land use and more! This webinar series will also provide an opportunity for local government professionals from across the board to sharpen their skills, obtain credits, learn about trends and regulations, meet the experts and find out about funding opportunities. Click here to learn more and register for the series.

8. SUNY Adirondack Workforce Training Courses

Speaking Like You Mean Business! This live, interactive workshop via Zoom prepares you to address your staff, colleagues, clients, prospects or the media — regardless of your role or industry. Learn how to deliver your message professionally and confidently, and rehearse strategies for preparation, execution and evaluation.

PLEASE NOTE: Pre-registration required for all courses at https://form.jotform.com/9336515