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Latest Updates on Resources and Funding Opportunities for Small Businesses

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Small Business Growth & Recovery Fund

This grant program aims to help U.S. small businesses severely impacted by the pandemic stabilize and thrive by providing better access to affordable capital in the form of grants of up to $20,000.   Factors considered in making the determination may include whether the business is located in a low or moderate-income census tract and is owned in whole or in part by people who identify as women, racial or ethnic minorities, or veterans. Smaller businesses are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given priority. The application period will be open until March 19th. Find more details about the program and access the application here.

Funding Opportunity for Child Care Programs

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) through its Bureau of Child Development and Head Start Collaboration (BCDHSC) has received the award of $19,867,522 from the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act. Through this program, flexible funds will be distributed to eligible child care programs to support their operations as they continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic.   The streamlined application for assistance will open on March 1st. Find more information about the program and access the application here.   To address any questions about the funds, such as how to apply, use of the funds, invoicing, and reporting, the BCDHSC and Child Care Aware of New Hampshire will be holding an informational webinar on Tuesday, March 2 from 12:30-1:30 PM. Sign up here.

SBA’s Mapping Tool Helps Determine Eligibility for the Targeted EIDL Advance

The Targeted EIDL Advance (aka grant of up to $10,000) will provide businesses located in low-income communities with additional funds to ensure small business continuity, adaptation, and resiliency. Click here to see the newly launched mapping tool which can help you determine whether your business is located in a low-income community.   Please note: This grant is currently not open to NEW applicants. If you already applied on or prior to Dec. 27, 2020, you do not need to take any action at this time, SBA will reach out to those who qualify. Applications for the EIDL loans, on the other hand, will continue to be accepted until Dec. 2021, and your business does not have to be located in a low-income community to be eligible for the loan. Find more details about the program and access the application here.

Additional Resource For Employers: How To Get Started With Apprenticeship Programs

The CCSNH (Community College System of NH) and Apprenticeship NH offer free support to help you start a Registered Apprenticeship Program and assist your business with:   Recruiting, screening, and hiring potential apprentices Developing a custom Registered Apprenticeship training program Accessing resources that can help fund training and education There is funding available for employers to offset apprenticeship training costs and may be funding available for apprentices to help pay for education and other costs associated with an apprenticeship. You can find more information below: How to Start Registered Apprenticeship Program Guide for Jobseekers and Employers Youth Apprenticeship Fact Sheet

As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or have questions about any of these programs. Sincerely, Natalie Natalie Moles Economic Recovery Coordinator Strafford Regional Planning Commission 150 Wakefield Street, Suite 12 Rochester, NH 03867   603-994-3500 ext. 113 nmoles@strafford.org www.strafford.org