Resources for Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response

The Save Small Business Fund administered by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is no longer accepting applications. However, grants are still being administered to those who have already submitted an application. 

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, an equity crowdfunding platform, is providing loans of $20k to $1M with payments deferred until 2021.

 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)

 Download the fact sheet

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.

Receive pro bono financial advice from a group of experienced CFOs, controllers and other finance professionals volunteering their time to help small businesses navigate through the crisis.

Colorado restaurants may appy for assistance to create and winterize additional outdoor seating during the colder months ahead. Funds can be used toward design, construction, applicable fees and supplies (ex: permit fees, tents, heaters). Round 2 of grant applications opens on November 30 – apply here.

One-time relief payments,are available to locally owned small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 restrictions including restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, distilleries, fitness clubs, caterers, and movie theaters.

Mesa County businesses that are currently operating, and have a reduced revenue of at least 20% due to capacity restrictions from public health orders, may be eligible for funding.  More info.

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

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.

Grand Valley Business Resources Facebook Group

Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College Scholarships for Displaced Workers