SEATTLE – January 22, 2021 – The Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA), the National Development Council (NDC) and leaders of the Washington State Small Business Recovery Working Group today announced the launch of SmallBizHelpWA.com, a digital resource hub designed to help small businesses and nonprofits, particularly those from underserved communities, navigate the recently re-opened Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and upcoming funding opportunities.
The Washington Small Business Recovery Working Group is working to amplify funding resources and employer assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and economic development organizations across the state to reach more small businesses and non-profit organizations in need.
The website features information about local, regional, and statewide resources for one-on-one support, FAQs about funding resources and a calendar of free virtual trainings that guide business owners through the application process. Resources include free technical assistance in multiple languages. With a limited pool of PPP funds available through the end of March, this online tool can help those with fewer resources more quickly secure financial support and make the most of this opportunity.
The Washington State Small Business Recovery Working Group recognizes the immense challenges small businesses faced during the first round of PPP in 2020 and is working to help employers understand that “PPP is Back & Better.” Conflicting guidance and misinformation spread, and many underserved communities, including those in rural areas, lost out on crucial financial relief. By prioritizing its reach to these communities through a centralized digital hub of information, and helping employers understand the improvements in the new PPP program, this collective, statewide effort is focused on ensuring the maximum amount of funds go toward inclusive job recovery, retention and growth in Washington. As additional resources are made available, the group will work to make them known and to support technical assistance, particularly for small businesses and non-profits from underserved communities.