ACCD: SBA applications for PPP, essential commuter travel loosened

Submitted by tim on Sun, 02/28/2021 - 11:38

Exclusive PPP Access for Small Businesses

From now through March 10th, the US Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting applications for relief through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) exclusively for businesses with fewer than 20 employees to ensure equitable access to the program. More details are now available, as well as additional information for sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals looking to receive more financial support.

The Vermont District Office of the SBA can assist those interested in the PPP and offers free weekly webinars. The PPP First and Second Draw webinar is held on Wednesdays at 9:00am and covers options, terms, eligibility, and the application process. The weekly PPP Forgiveness webinar is on Tuesdays at 11:30am and offers an in depth look at the forgiveness process.

Travel Guidance Update

Residents of communities within five miles of a Vermont border with a neighboring state may now complete essential and necessary travel between border towns that occurs in the same day, without quarantining upon return to Vermont. Residents should consult the travel FAQ on this topic for additional guidance.

People who are fully vaccinated may travel to Vermont and return from out-of-state travel without quarantine restrictions, once 14 days have passed from when they received their final dose. Additionally, people who meet this vaccination criteria may now gather with one other household at a time.

Vaccine Distribution Update

The Department of Health has announced that Vermonters aged 65 and older are now able to get COVID-19 vaccines at Walgreens locations throughout the state. There are no walk-ins, and appointments must be scheduled online or by calling 1-800-Walgreens.

Starting Monday, March 1st, Vermonters aged 65 and older will be able to get COVID-19 vaccines through the statewide clinics. Vermonters can prepare by creating an online account now to make sign up easier when the time comes. Visit the Department of Health website for frequently asked questions, tips and tricks, a short video on signing up, and more.

Nomination Process Open for Commission on the Future of Vermont Agriculture

Residents interested in serving on the Governor’s Future of Vermont Agriculture Commission may now put their names forward for nomination. The Commission is charged with developing long- and short-term strategies and specific action plans with measurable outcomes to ensure that Vermont remains a vibrant agricultural state into the future. Nominations are due by Friday, March 12th.

Take Vermont's Outdoor Economy Survey

The Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance has launched a survey to capture the current scope of Vermont’s outdoor recreation economy. The pandemic has heightened the importance of outdoor recreation as an economic driver for Vermont’s communities as people turn to physical activity and the mental health it affords. The survey intends to capture the state of Vermont’s outdoor businesses and organizations by gathering benchmark data, change trends, and needs for future sector support and development in the areas of financing, workforce, infrastructure, and branding.

To contribute your information to the report and recommendations, the Vermont Outdoor Economy Benchmark Survey will be open until March 8th at 5:00pm.

Source: Agency of Commerce & Community Development 2.28.2021