Resources for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response
A SAFE PATH FORWARD
The State of Colorado has removed its COVID-19 dial system (which imposed restrictons on counties based on COVID incidence rates) in favor of self-regulation. In Mesa County, we have adopted a “Free to Choose” resolution, which supports individuals and businesses to be free to choose how to protect themselves from COVID-19. Some restrictions still apply, particularly on federal land and within schools. When out and about in the community, please follow signage as posted.
The GJEP offices at 122 N. 6th Street are operating during normal business hours Monday-Friday. Masks are required to when entering the building.
Health Care Updates and General Information
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Mesa County Health Department
View local data on the spread of the virus, as well as find free testing facilities and vaccine information.
State of Colorado’s Official COVID-19 Website
This is the state’s primary resource for information related to COVID-19. See statewide data and learn where to get vaccinated now that the state has opened vaccines for anyone above 16 years old.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Visit the CDC for information pertaining to COVID-19 spread and vaccination rate across the U.S.
Financial support
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Energize Colorado Gap Fund
The Energize Colorado Gap Fund is not accepting new applications at this time. You may still access previously submitted applications through the website, and sign up for a mailing list to stay informed on new rounds of funding.
Grand Junction Business Stabilization and Recovery Fund
The Grand Junction Business Stabilization and Recovery Fund has entered Phase III. As of January 20, 2021, the City of Grand Junction has authorized the Business Incubator Center to distribute up to $500,000 of grant funding to eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19.
Grant funding of up to $7,500 will be awarded to new applicants that are eligible businesses in the city limits of Grand Junction and that can demonstrate losses related to COVID-19 that have not been covered by other funding. Prior applicants may also apply and be awarded up to $5,000.
U.S. Small Business Administration Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
The SBA administers federal loan programs such as the Economic Injury Disaster Loans to provide small business relief from the impact of the coronavirus. Visit the SBA site for updates and changes to loan opportunities.
Funding Sources for Colorado Businesses via the Office of Economic Development and International Trade
This list is divided by industries and counties, and is continuously updated by OEDIT.
Colorado Lending Source Small Business Emergency Loans
Specifically targeting small businesses in rural parts of Colorado (per USDA definition), Colorado Lending Source has made loan funds available for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Financing is available at a fixed interest rate over twenty-four months (two years) with no payments of principal and interest due during the first six months of the loan.
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CO CLIMBER Loan Fund
CLIMBER is a $250 million program from the State of Colorado that allows small businesses heavily impacted by the coronavirus pandemic to apply for below-market-rate loans of up to $500,000 from one of six approved community lenders.
Kiva Microloans
Colorado Lending Source has partnered with Kiva to become their newest hub and offer an innovative microloan product. Partnering with Kiva means CLS is able to extend 0% interest small business loans, up to $15,000. In response to COVID-19, Kiva loans will also have access to expanded eligibility terms and grace periods up to 6 months for greater financing flexibility during this difficult time. Contact Rachael Sall for more details.
Wefunder Coronavirus Crisis Loan Program
Wefunder, an equity crowdfunding platform, is providing loans of $20k to $1M with payments deferred until 2021.
Colorado Enterprise Fund
Call 303-860-0242 or email info@coloradoenterprisefund.org
Colorado Enterprise fund has been providing loans and financing options for small businesses since 1976. Please see their website for their programs including their Just in time Line of credit loan ($15,000 to $100,000) and their Great Asset Partner (GAP) loan ($1,000 to $500,000)
Greenline Emergency Microloan Program
This emergency microloan program is specifically designed to support minority-, women- and veteran-owned small businesses throughout Colorado. Up to $25,000 with no interest for the first six months, followed by a 2% interest rate. The loans can be coupled with PPP and other SBA loan programs.
Emergency Rental Assistance
The Department of Housing has two programs to offer emergency rental assistance when renters have difficulty affording rent due to COVID-19. The Property Owner Preservation program (POP) is an opportunity for rental property owners to have their rents covered, while the Emergency Rental Assistance program (EHAP) allows renters to seek assistance directly. Both programs can be accessed through the DOH website.
Human Resources
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Mesa County Workforce Center – all job seeker and employer services
- General questions about MCWC programs: 970.248.0871
- Layoff assistance for businesses
- Unemployment Insurance and resources
- To set up a phone interview with an Employment Specialist: 970.248.7560
- Daily job listings: 970.248.7575
- Childcare services (at-home and daycare): 970.683.2300
A Guide to Furloughs and Layoffs
A Guide to Furloughs and Layoffs from GJEP, Johnston Financial Services, Lighthouse HR Support and the Mesa County Workforce Center
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CO Dept of Labor and Employment
CO Dept of Labor and Employment
- Apply for unemployment benefits under the CARES Act, including self-employed, gig workers, 1099, and sole proprietors.
- Emergency Paid Leave Rule – This rule is meant to limit the spread of highly contagious disease and enables workers in at-risk occupations to access testing.
- Unemployment Insurance – During layoffs, all employees are encouraged to apply for unemployment insurance. Those who are job-attached (meaning workers will be expected to return after a separation of up to 16 weeks) should file as “job-attached.”
- Work-Share Program – The Work-Share Program gives employers an alternative to laying off employees. It allows employers to let employees keep working, but with fewer hours. While they are working fewer hours, CDLE pays them part of their regular unemployment benefits.
- Layoff/Separations
Free Pre-Employment Background Checks via TransUnion
ShareAble for Hires, a recently launched division of TransUnion that provides a simple, safe way for small business owners to conduct background checks and credit checks on prospective employees, is currently offering free pre-employment background checks. Visit the site for details.
B2b peer support and education
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Energize Colorado
A nonprofit bringing Colorado’s diverse professional community together to provide relief to local small businesses, supporting them in recovering from the economic impact of COVID-19. The site is a frequently updated one-stop-shop for COVID-19 small business response and beyond.
SBDC Support
Businesses seeking technical assistance or consulting regarding how to prepare and/or recover during an economic disruption should contact Erin McCuskey, and/or register for SBDC consulting here. Further assistance can be found in The Disaster Recovery and Continuity Guide for Colorado Businesses. Download the guide here
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Grand Valley Business Resources Facebook Group
Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College Scholarships for Displaced Workers
Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College Scholarships for Displaced Workers
Free Legal Advice
Small businesses in Colorado can receive free legal advice on COVID-19 related issues from volunteer lawyers. Visit coloradocovidrelief.org
