Tag: Economic Development Collaborative (EDC)

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

On February 23rd, Governor Newsom signed into law a comprehensive package providing urgent relief for the small businesses of CA. The package provides an additional $2 billion – a four-fold increase over the $500 million currently being distributed – for grants up to $25,000 for small businesses impacted by the pandemic, and allocates $50 million of this total for non-profit cultural institutions.

Lendistry with the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program will be opening 4 additional rounds of applications. Please review the information below about Round 3 and Round 4.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Focus on Equity and Inclusion

I started my career in human resources and eventually found myself working as a corporate recruiter. As a young and albeit naïve professional, focusing on diversity in the recruiting process was not in my immediate field of vision because, at the time, the topic of “inclusion and diversity” was not necessarily at the top of the national dialogue.

Fortunately, the experience of observing and participating in the recruiting process of hundreds of candidates began to shape my understanding of the importance of diversity.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Business Alert- Important PPP Updates

On Monday February 22nd, 2021, the Biden-Harris Administration and the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced steps the agency is taking with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to further promote equitable relief for America’s mom-and-pop businesses.

Please review the following changes to the Paycheck Protection Program:

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

THE FUTURE OF TRADE- INTERNET TRADE FINANCE: EUCP & EURC

February 25 @ 10:00 am

Presenters John Dunlop, ITFGlobal Limited, and Simona Racek, EDC SBDC advisor, will discuss important information about trade finance documentary letters of credit that have gone digital and the new guidelines that were issued by the International Chamber of Commerce to supplement the UCP 600 for credits and URC 522 or collections, which have sped up collection time and will improve your cash flow.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — State Aid for Businesses, Individuals and Families Impacted by COVID-19

On February 17, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom reached an agreement on a package of immediate actions that will speed needed relief to individuals, families and businesses facing significant economic hardship from the COVID-19 Recession. The items detailed below are a part of the Immediate Action Agreement. Please note that many details on how these resources will be rolled out are still being developed.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

COVID-19 Business Resources – EIDL, PPP, UI and Grants

Alternating Wednesdays & Fridays @ 12:00 pm
Next Webinar: February 19, 2021

The EDC invites you to join our webinar series on alternative Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:00 pm to answer questions about EIDL, PPP, UI, Grants and all currently available COVID-19 related business resources. Please register in advance. Space is limited.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Grant Opportunities

The application window for Round 2 of the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program closed yesterday, February 8th, 2021 at 6:00 pm.

If you have already uploaded all required documentation, no further action is required. If you still need to upload your Entity Documents (tax returns, ID and/or application certification) please finish uploading all documents by February 11, 2021.

EDC Business Alert — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program deadline is 6 p.m. today, Feb. 8

The application window for Round 2 of the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program will close today, February 8th, 2021 at 6:00 pm.

February 8, 2021 at 6:00 pm: To have your application considered for Round 2, you will need to complete the online application through one of the program’s partners. To complete the application you must indicate that you are ready to submit the application and that all information provided is accurate by typing “Yes” into a pop-up box at the end of the application. Uploading all documentation is not required by this deadline.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — No-Cost Mental Health Resources for Business Owners

The EDC has assisted thousands of business owners the past few years through multiple disruptions and disasters. We know the pain and frustration that many of you have faced. We are in this with you.

If you or a loved one are experiencing anxiety, depression or just fear of the unknown, we encourage you to reach out to the following organizations to help assist during this time.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program application deadline is Feb. 8

Round 2 for the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program will be opening tomorrow, February 2nd, 2021 at 8:00 am and will close February 8, 2021 at 6:00 pm.

Important Reminders:
This is NOT a first-come, first-serve application process or rolling approval process- all eligible applicants will be considered for the grant at the close of Round 2 on February 8, 2021 at 6:00 pm and not before. 

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Paycheck Protection Program application for Sole Proprietors deadline is March 31

Self-employed, business owners with no employees, contractors, free lancers, gig economy workers and sole proprietors-
Did you know you are eligible for PPP?

Sole proprietors qualify for the Paycheck Protection Program under the concept of “owner compensation replacement.” Even if you do not have employees or do not make a payroll, you may be eligible to apply for this economic relief loan. Common examples of sole proprietors include, but are not limited to, owners or operators of in-home daycare facilities, web designers, consultants and artisan chefs.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Free Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

COVID-19 Business Resources – EIDL, PPP, UI and Grants

Alternating Wednesdays & Fridays @ 12:00 pm
Next Webinar: January 27, 2021

The EDC invites you to join our webinar series on alternative Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:00 pm to answer questions about EIDL, PPP, UI, Grants and all currently available COVID-19 related business resources. Please register in advance. Space is limited.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for December 2020

The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its year-end, December 2020 report earlier today, displaying an anticipated increase in Ventura County’s unemployment rate, from 6.3% in November to 7.5% in December. We say “anticipated” owing to the new round of business restrictions that were imposed some two months ago as COVID-19 cases skyrocketed through and now following the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season. As we note in more detail below, our job losses were concentrated almost entirely in Food & Accommodation, or restaurants and bars, down 2,700 jobs on the month. For the entire detail, check out LMID’s December report here.

Next Free EDC Webinar — COVID-19 Business Resources – EIDL, PPP, UI and Grants, to be held Jan. 22

The EDC invites you to join our webinar series on alternating Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:00 pm to answer questions about EIDL, PPP, UI, Grants and all currently available COVID-19 related business resources. Business Disruption Resource Director, Clare Briglio, and EDC SBDC Financial Advisor, Juliana Ramirez, will be presenting and answering questions around new federal benefits and expansions to existing programs. Please register in advance. Space is limited.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule

CA SMALL BUSINESS COVID-19 RELIEF GRANT Grant Q&A

January 13 @ 12:30 pm

Have questions about the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program? Join the EDC’s Business Disruption Resource Director, Clare Briglio, and EDC SBDC Financial Advisor, Juliana Ramirez, in this Q&A session! Space is limited. Please register early.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC COVID-19 Grant Q&A Webinar & New Federal Program Resources

Join our FREE Q&A WEBINAR on
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13TH, 2021 AT 12:30 PM

The EDC’s Business Disruption Resource Director, Clare Briglio, and EDC SBDC Financial Advisor, Juliana Ramirez, will be answering questions about the CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program.

EDC Business Alert- CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program deadline extended to Jan. 13

The State of California has successfully received thousands of completed applications and will extend the closing date to January 13, 2021, to keep the portal open for those of you still in process and for new applicants to ensure fair and equitable opportunities for California’s small business community.

If you experienced disruptions in the application process, please note that you will be notified by email when to log in to complete your unfinished application or upload requested documents. Please do not fill out a new application as this can delay consideration.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

January 8 @ 12:00 pm

Join the EDC for a discussion of new COVID-19 Business Relief. Business Disruption Resource Director, Clare Briglio and EDC SBDC Financial Advisor Juliana Ramirez will be presenting and answering questions around these new federal benefits and expansions to existing programs. Space is limited. Please register early.

March 4 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — HR Legal Updates and COVID-19 Employee and Employer Concerns

The Economic Development Collaborative is honored to have attorneys Aymara Ledezma and Hannah Sweiss from Fisher Phillips LLP join us again to provide a California Employment Law Update for 2021 and additional insight on new regulations related to COVID-19 vaccines, reasonable accommodations and concerns around these issues.

March 9 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Special Webinar for Commercial Tenants & EDC FREE webinar schedule

Join us for a discussion around next steps for commercial tenants and landlords, things to consider and opportunities to move forward. This webinar will be a panel discussion between EDC SBDC financial, legal and operations advisors.

May 6 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Planning for the Unexpected

Free Event on May 6 Providing Resources and Strategies

Join the Economic Development Collaborative, Edison International and the Outsmart Disaster Campaign on Thursday, May 6 at 12:00 pm for a free webinar on practical tips and strategies on disaster preparedness! This hour-long webinar includes an overview of the Outsmart Disaster Resilient Business Challenge and a walkthrough of core concepts on resiliency strategies for your business

Sept. 17 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present Webinar for Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs

Connect, Collaborate, Learn with WEV. Strong Women, Strong Coffee is WEV’s monthly meet-up/community empowerment group. Join WEV each month (with your favorite morning brew) to connect, collaborate and learn from other women entrepreneurs. Meeting every 3rd Friday of the month from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, you will have the opportunity to share, listen and support one another with reaching your business goals.

Join WEV this September 17th at 9:00 am as they celebrate Latina owned businesses with special guests, Ana Lilia (Lili) Muñoz owner of Colibri and Brenda Garcia owner of Agave Girl Boutique.

Sept. 23 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces ANTX-Coastal Trident 2021 Technology Open House

The Advanced Naval Technology Exercise, or “ANTX,” is conducted by the Naval Research and Development Establishment in order to inform and align technical innovation with operational needs. The program is intended to facilitate collaboration between industry, academia and government research and development organizations, providing a forum in which the naval community can evaluate the utility of new technologies before decisions are made on investment priorities.

Oct. 19 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces City of Camarillo Job Fair

The city of Camarillo is hosting a job fair for individuals to discover job opportunities that are available in the area. The job fair will be taking place onOctober 19, 2021 from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm in Constitution Park. The cost to attend the job fair as a business or a job seeker is FREE.

Jan. 8 — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) to present COVID-19 Business Grant and CARE’s Act webinar

Join us for a discussion of new COVID-19 Business Relief- CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant, New PPP and Second Round Funding, Expanded Unemployment Benefits and EIDL.

Business Disruption Resource Director, Clare Briglio, and EDC SBDC Financial Advisor, Juliana Ramirez, will be presenting and answering questions around these new federal benefits and expansions to existing programs.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

The EDC is excited that the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program opened yesterday, December 30, 2020! Thousands of small businesses have applied and we are aware that with this large application volume, many small businesses are experiencing delays or challenges with the application portal. Lendistry is working quickly to improve theses access issues.

If you are experiencing technical difficulties or have additional specific questions about your application, please reach out to the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program Call Center at 888.612.4370 or email careliefgrant@lendistry.com

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

The California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program first application window is open from December 30, 2020 at 6:00 am to January 8, 2021 at 11:59 pm! This grant program is NOT first-come, first-served. Please take the time to prepare all necessary documentation and carefully review your application. One complete application will qualify you to be considered for both rounds, please only apply once.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) announces free weekly webinar schedule

Click here for the entire e-newsletter   EDC WEBINAR SCHEDULE The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today! NEW CARE’S ACT COVID-19 BUSINESS RELIEF- NEW PPP, SECOND ROUND FUNDING, EXPANDED UNEMPLOYMENT…

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program

The Governor announced the creation of a $500 million COVID-19 Relief Grant administered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) at the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development for small businesses that have been impacted by COVID-19 and the health and safety restrictions. Funds will be awarded to selected intermediaries with established networks of Community Development Financial Institutions to distribute relief through grants of up to $25,000 to underserved micro and small businesses throughout the state. Cultural institutions and non-profits are also be eligible for these grants.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Business Alert

Congress recently approved a new stimulus package providing funding for the federal government through the remainder of fiscal year 2021 and the latest installment of COVID-19 related measures. Below is a brief synopsis of the information related to PPP, SBA Loans, the Emergency Capital Investment Program and Unemployment Insurance.

The SBA and Department of Treasury have not released their formal announcement and information regarding the roll out of the programs listed below. The EDC will be actively engaged with these organizations as the situation develops.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Legal Alert — CAL/OSHA COVID-19 Requirements for Employers

On November 20, the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) Office of Administrative Law approved new Cal/OSHA emergency temporary standards (ETS) for COVID-19, effective November 30. Many of the ETS are already required by existing employer workplace injury and illness prevention programs (IIPP-see Injury and Illness Prevention Program), or will be required under AB 685 (the new COVID-19 employee safety and reporting law effective January 1, 2021), but some requirements are new and must be complied with immediately.

EDC Weekly Webinar Schedule on Dec. 7, 8, 9, 10

SCORE SANTA BARBARA: 2021 BUSINESS OUTLOOK ROUNDTABLE

December 7 @ 5:00 pm

Join SCORE Santa Barbara a round table discussion with health experts, community leaders, and financial professionals. Our panelists will provide insights into the challenges and opportunities for small businesses in Santa Barbara and offer practical guidance on how to prepare your business for the year ahead. Topics covered will include: (1) Guidance for operating safely during the COVID crisis, (2) What to expect as we enter the post-COVID world, (3) How to prepare for success in the “new normal” and (4) Financial strategies and sources of funding for small businesses. 

EDC Business Alert- COVID-19 Updates & Small Business Resources

Governor Newsom addressed the State of California yesterday, Thursday December 3rd regarding the new Regional Stay Home Order. This affects regions with less than 15% ICU availability. Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles Counties are in the Southern California Region, which is at 20.6% ICU capacity remaining as of December 3, 2020. It is anticipated this Region will reach the metrics by early December. All three counties remain in the Purple Tier at the time being, but each have their own protocol regarding this new order. Please refer to your specific county’s communications in regards to business operations. For more information CLICK HERE.

EDC Partner News- CSUCI Entrepreneur Survey

In collaboration with a group of international researchers, CSU Channel Islands Entrepreneurship & Small Business Institute is studying how entrepreneurs deal with the consequences of COVID-19 during this most unusual year.

This research focuses on the impact of emotional intelligence and resiliency on entrepreneurial well-being world-wide during a black swan event. Upon taking an 8-minute survey you can see your scores for emotional intelligence and resilience. You can opt in to receive information via email to learn more about what your scores mean and to explore the range of results from the study.

EDC Business Alert- CA Manufacturers’ Recovery Support Program

With the pandemic dramatically redefining the landscape for California manufacturers, the Economic Development Collaborative is committed to helping businesses survive, recover, and thrive as they navigate through the challenges. In partnership with CMTC’s California Manufacturing Network, the EDC’s Small Business Development Center provides direct support to manufacturers across Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.

EDC Business Alert- PPP Information You Need to Know

PPP: INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW

The federal government’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), part of the CARES Act, provided business loans that can be forgiven if the right circumstances are met. With the end of the year approaching, the EDC understands that there is a new sense of urgency to complete the actual process of forgiveness. This process can be very challenging and many lending institutions are addressing the information differently. An important note is that the Small Business Administration (SBA) has not finalized this forgiveness process, despite some banks accepting the forgiveness applications at this time. The EDC speculates that the legislative packet that includes guidance on PPP forgiveness processing will not pass until 2021. 

EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for October 2020

The California Labor Market Information Division released its October 2020 report earlier today, showing a slight acceleration in our month-over-month recovery, our unemployment rate improving from a revised 8.3% in September to 7.1% in October. That’s encouraging, though the region’s recent move back to the more restricted Purple Tier will almost certainly slow or even stall the recovery and, indeed, we are starting to see an increase in new unemployment insurance claims.  And while 7.1% is a grand improvement over our low point of 13.9% in April, it’s still more than double the 3.4% we enjoyed in October 2019. See here for the current summary detail.

EDC Free Webinar Schedule

November 17 @ 1:00 pm

Google Analytics is a fantastic tool. Best part is, it’s free to use for everyone! No matter if you have a 2-page website or a massive e-commerce website, you can use Google Analytics to understand how your customers are using your website and where you can improve their experience. During this webinar, expert in business data analytics Mo Hossain will walk you through the steps of how to set up Google Analytics so you can start getting data from your own website.

EDC NEWS- Welcome New Advisors!

The Economic Development Collaborative is thrilled to announce the addition of five new advisors to our consulting team! As one of California’s largest direct business support networks, our Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to providing quality consulting with a diversity of advisor skillsets to assist you with each of your business needs. Access to capital, top tier advising and personalized support is just a phone call away.

November EDC Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

CALIFORNIA EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE- NOVEMBER 2020

EDC Business Alert- Reinventing Your Business During COVID-19 webinar of Oct. 15

FREE WEBINAR: REINVENTING YOUR BUSINESS DURING COVID-19
Thursday, October 15 @ 5:30 pm

Have COVID-19 disruptions left you in a position to rethink, or reinvent your business or business model? Join the EDC’s Small Business Development Center Advisors and Startup Simi this Thursday in their free Inspire Entrepreneurship- Startup Speaker Series.

EDC Legal Alert — Eviction Protections Extended to March 31

On September 23, 2020, Governor Newsom signed Executive Order N-80-20. The Order extends to March 31, 2021 the time frame for local governments to provide commercial eviction protections due to COVID-19. The additional protection is not automatic, however. Commercial landlords and tenants will have to wait and see if local governments in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County or surrounding areas enact or extend the protections authorized by the Order.

EDC Business Alert- What do I do with the government aid I’ve received?

We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has been impacting business owners in many different ways. With each new regulation it can be difficult to apply general advice to your specific business.

Our no-cost, individualized consulting can help discuss what to do with the PPP, EIDL, and additional government aid you have received.

EDC Business Alert — Census Last Day September 30!

This decennial Census has significant impact on our business community. The Census not only determines local funding for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, but it also allocates money for direct business resources. As a business owner, you can consult the Census data to understand where cities are expanding and strategize investing in your current business or opening a new location. We encourage you to check in with your employees, friends, and community to ensure everyone is counted.

EDC Weekly Webinar Schedule

Wednesday, September 23rd @ 9:00 am

This live interactive webinar is focused on answering your questions as they relate to the financial picture of your business. EDC SBDC advisor Juliana Ramirez can assist you in working with QuickBooks® or your other financial resources to understand, monitor, and improve the financial health of your company. This small group discussion provides personalized attention to develop “hands-on” bookkeeping scenarios.

EDC LEGAL ALERT – Protections for Residential Tenants, Homeowners and Small Landlords

On August 31, Governor Newsom signed the Tenant, Homeowner, and Small Landlord Relief and Stabilization Act of 2020 (the “Act”), urgency legislation that immediately went into effect on September 1. The Act provides temporary relief for financially distressed residential tenants, homeowners and small landlords to avoid widespread evictions and foreclosures due to COVID-19 financial hardships.

Although the Act provides some relief for residential landlords and tenants, including mobile home tenants and assessor dwelling unit rentals, the Act does not include protections for commercial landlords and tenants, who must continue to rely on existing state law, local eviction moratoriums and legal advice for guidance.

EDC Free Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative is proud to offer the following webinars at no-cost.
Space is limited. Register today!

SEPTEMBER EDC WEBINAR SCHEDULE

EDC Business Alert — Have you completed the 2020 Census?

This decennial Census has significant impact on our business community. The Census not only determines local funding for schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, but it also allocates money for direct business resources. As a business owner, you can consult the Census data to understand where cities are expanding and strategize investing in your current business or opening a new location. We encourage you to check in with your employees, friends, and community to ensure everyone is counted.

The EDC believes in the importance of completing the 2020 Census to improve the economic vitality of the businesses we serve and the region we support.

Do your part today. Stand up and be counted!
For more information, please visit Ventura County Counts.

EDC Business Alert- Important News Regarding Commercial Evictions

In the last week we have received quite a few notices from businesses asking about protections around evictions. With the new information from the State of California that evictions can begin as early as September 1st, due to the repeal of the eviction moratorium, (Unlawful Retainer) we understand that landlords may now have a sense of urgency to collect back rent.

EDC Business Alert- SBA Disaster Loan for Property Damage Due to Civil Unrest Application Deadline is Sept. 16

Businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters may apply for SBA federal disaster loans to repair or replace disaster-damaged property caused by the civil unrest that began May 26, 2020.

EDC News Alert – PPE Distributed Across Local Business Community

The Economic Development Collaborative’s Small Business Development Center, the Solvang Chamber of Commerce, and the Downtown Santa Barbara Organization has proudly distributed one million units of personal protective equipment free of charge to businesses across Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties.

Thanks to the hard work of our staff and partners, we have distributed 30-day supply packages of hand sanitizer, masks, and face shields for up to 10 employees for 1,500 businesses and 17,000 employees.

EDC Business Alert — Paycheck Protection Program Deadline is Aug. 8

SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application deadline is August 8,2020. PPP is designed to help small business, nonprofits, veteran organizations, Tribal concerns, self-employed individuals, independent contractors, and other eligible borrowers keep their workers employed during the COVID-19 crisis.

Economic Development Collaborative — Paycheck Protection Program Reopens and Ventura County Business Grant Program Deadline

The SBA has extended the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application window through August 8, 2020 in response to the Paycheck Protection Program Extension Act. PPP is designed to help small business, nonprofits, veteran organizations, Tribal concerns, self-employed individuals, independent contractors, and other eligible borrowers keep their workers employed during the COVID-19 crisis.

Economic Development Collaborative — COVID19 Resources for Business- PPP, EIDL and Business Grants for Ventura County

COVID19 BUSINESS ASSISTANCE
If you are still looking for capital, don’t miss these opportunities for assistance!

VENTURA COUNTY BUSINESS ASSISTANCE GRANT PROGRAM
The County of Ventura has created a COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant Program to provide grants of $5,000 awarded to small businesses and nonprofit organizations located in Ventura County to alleviate impacts from COVID-19.

If you wish to apply, please have the following documents handy:

EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for May 2020

The California Labor Market Information Division released its May 2020 report earlier today, showing that at least as measured by the unemployment rate we’ve turned the corner toward recovery.  Ventura County’s unemployment rate improved from a revised 13.9% in April to 13.5% in May. This parallels the April to May improvement in the national unemployment rate reported earlier this month. While the national improvement wasn’t so much a surprise, as much of the country began to re-open businesses well ahead of California, I’ll admit that we anticipated Ventura County’s rate to go up in May, even by as much as 5 points. It’s a welcome relief that it hasn’t, though recovery remains a long way off. For the May data, go to www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/file/lfmonth/vent$pds.pdf 

EDC Business Alert — SBA reopens EIDL Portal for all eligible applicants

To further meet the needs of U.S. small businesses and non-profits, the U.S. Small Business Administration reopened the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portal to all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19 today.

SBA’s EIDL program offers long-term, low interest assistance for a small business or non-profit. These loans can provide vital economic support to help alleviate temporary loss of revenue. EIDL assistance can be used to cover payroll and inventory, pay debt or fund other expenses.

EDC NEWS- New Funding Opportunity for Laid Off or Furloughed Workers

In partnership with America’s Jobs Center, the Human Services Agency is offering supportive services funds for individuals up to $800 if your hours have been reduced or eliminated due to the economic impact of covid-19. Additional eligibility requirements apply. Priority will be given to English language learners, low income individuals and those with barriers to employment. 

Please see flyer below for more detail or call 805.204.5186 for more information. Due to a high volume of calls, please allow up to 48 hours for staff to contact you.

EDC BUSINESS ALERT-Preparing for and Reopening Ventura County Businesses

Ventura County has moved into Phase 2 of California’s reopening plan. Businesses that have been identified as eligible to reopen, must meet county and state health and safety compliance protocols.

At this time, we encourage all retail and restaurants that are interested in moving towards in store shopping and dine in service to read the safety protocols and compliance measures necessary to do so. Be prepared to reopen.

EDC Business Alert — Applications are Still Being Accepted for Paycheck Protection Program

The SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program is still open and accepting new applications. This SBA loan program may be accessed through any bank that currently issues SBA 7a guarantee loans. To find an approved lender visit this link.

This program will be available retroactive from Feb. 15, 2020, so employers can rehire their recently laid-off employees through June 30, 2020. NOTE: For more information please visit the SBA website. For frequently asked questions please visit the U.S. Department of Treasury.

EDC Business Alert — Business Resource Updates

On March 27th, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-37-20 implementing a statewide eviction moratorium on evictions through May 31st. EDC encourages renters who are unable to pay rent due to financial hardship and the impact of COVID-19, to inform their landlord by completing a Notice of Coronavirus-Related Inability to Pay Rent in order to preserve rights as a tenant. For more information on Covid-19 moratorium related eviction guidelines in Ventura and Santa Barbara County please visit this website.

EDC — Paycheck Protection Program Reopens 4/27

The SBA will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from participating lenders on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 7:30 AM.

If you are seeking additional capital through the Paycheck Protection Program, we highly encourage you to review our Federal Funding Preparation Guide in advance of any application you may submit.

EDC BUSINESS ALERT- EDC Business Disaster Loan and Wednesday Webinar Series

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for our EDC Disaster Loan. Special thanks to Pacific Western Bank for contributing $500,000 to the EDC Disaster Loan Fund. These funds are meant to support small businesses in Ventura and Santa Barbara County only. Due to the volume of requests we anticipate and limited private capital funds we know that we will not be able to serve every small business. However, we do believe that the SBA Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), and the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) are the best sources of capital available to small businesses.

EDC BUSINESS ALERT- New COVID-19 Business, Self-Employed and Employee Benefit Webinar Series and Business Resource Hotline

Good Afternoon Clients, Partners and Friends, It is truly an extraordinary time. Thank you for your partnership, support and grace as we have all made necessary and sometimes uncomfortable adjustments to meet this moment. In the brief period of time…

EDC January 2020 NEWS- EDC Welcomes Nan Drake as Board Chair

EDC WELCOMES NAN DRAKE AS 2020 BOARD CHAIR Nan Drake of E.J. Harrison & Sons was recently installed as 2020 chair of the Economic Development Collaborative’s board of directors at the organization’s 23rd Annual Meeting. “Nan Drake brings extensive experience…

July 14 — Free Webinar: How to Mitigate Risk due to COVID19 and Return-to-Work Strategies with Attorney Nicole Kamm

Join us on July 14th at noon for a free webinar with Nicole Kamm, attorney and human resources expert. Nicole will present strategies on how to mitigate risk and return-to-work strategies for employers and employees impacted by Covid19. This webinar will include a live Q & A and will be recorded.

Sept. 24 — EDC to present free commercial lease webinar — Creative Solutions for Commercial Landlords and Tenants During Covid-19

Join us for a free webinar on commercial leasing and finding creative solutions to tenant-landlord disputes during COVID-19 with partners and associate attorneys from Myers, Widders, Gibson, Jones, & Feingold.
Our excellent panel with extensive experience in lease negotiation, civil litigation, and resolving business disputes will review:
• Lease provisions during COVID-19
• The September 30th eviction moratorium
• Effect of bankruptcies on commercial tenancies
• Strategies to achieving win-win solutions for both tenants and landlords

Oct. 29 — EDC Partner Webinar Schedule

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our partner’s no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

SPANISH: WEV SEMINARIOS DE EDUCACIÓN FINANCIERA: COMO ORGANIZAR TUS FINANZAS CON QUICKBOOKS 

Nov. 16 — EDC Weekly Webinar Schedule

The economic environment in 2020 has caused many unexpected challenges for the small business community as they navigate through times of financial uncertainty. Many business owners are facing decisions around cutting expenses, adjusting business models and finding new sources of revenue. Join financial expert from U.S. Bank, Morris Jackson as he discusses these topics and with Deluxe’s Amanda Brinkman and expands on advice and guidance he provides to small businesses in season five of the hit series, Small Business Revolution.