Updated Work Safe Guidance for Businesses
Agency of Commerce and Community Development ACCD has updated the Phased Restart Work Safe Guidance for businesses, including additional details for workplace communal spaces and construction in multi-unit properties. The most recent guidance regarding Work Safe practices can always be found on the sector guidance and FAQs for businesses pages.
Guidance for Farmers Markets Effective May 1st
Farmers markets may open after May 1st using limited in-person operations under detailed guidance from the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. Vendors will need to significantly alter their business practices and use a “pre-order, local food pick-up” model to eliminate crowds and reduce contact with customers.
Local Financing Opportunities for Municipalities
ACCD recently hosted a webinar with the Vermont League of Cities and Towns to share financing opportunities municipalities can use to recover from COVID-19 impacts. Deputy Secretary Ted Brady; Treasurer Beth Pearce; Chris D’Elia, president of the Vermont Bankers Association; and Michael Gaughan, Executive Director of the Municipal Bond Bank, provided tools and guidance for municipalities to explore.
VtSBDC Financial Resiliency Resources
The Vermont Small Business Development Center has developed new guidance for businesses as they manage the financial impact of COVID-19.
- Business Lending 501 highlights the SBA funding opportunities available now as well as Vermont-specific resources. It includes guidance on the SBA application process and a checklist of financial documents needed to apply.
- The Self-Guided Assessment: Business Cash Flow tool helps businesses assess current cash flow, profit and loss, debt service, and expenses to give a fuller understanding of how loans might impact cash flow.
Mandatory Safety Training Now Available
Addendum 11 to the Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order included a directive that by May 4th, all employees returning to work according to the Phased Restart Work Safe Guidelines, including those already working, must complete a mandatory training on health and safety requirements as provided by VOSHA, or another training program that meets or exceeds the VOSHA-provided standard. The Department of Labor has posted training materials in both online and printable formats. Completed training certificates should kept on hand by each employer.
Business Impact
ACCD wants to hear from all Vermont businesses impacted by the response to the COVID-19 virus. Please share these impacts via the ACCD Business Impact Form, which will help us assess the full impact as we work toward solutions.