Wednesday, September 2, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
September 2, 2020
Long Beach Health Order Allows for Reopening of Indoor Hair Salons/Barbershops
- The Long Beach Health Department issued updated protocols for the City’s Safer at Home Health Order that allows hair salons and barbershops to reopen indoors if they follow guidelines designed to protect employees and patrons and control the spread of COVID-19.
- The new order, effective until it is extended, rescinded or amended in writing by the Health Officer, requires that hair salons and barbershops adhere to safety guidelines, including:
- Operating at a maximum of 25% capacity.
- Continuing to operate outdoors to the extent feasible.
- Ensuring physical distancing measures.
- Ensuring everyone is wearing cloth face coverings while in the salon or barbershop.
- Clients should wear face coverings with ear loops to ensure that face coverings can be worn throughout the hair service.
- Establishing an outdoor reception area where customers can check in.
- Using barriers (such as plexiglass) at reception areas or other areas where physical distancing cannot be maintained to minimize exposure between workers and customers.
- Staggering appointments to reduce reception congestion and to ensure adequate time for proper cleaning and sanitation between each customer visit.
- Walk-in appointments will not be available.
- Serving only one client at a time.
- Encouraging the use of credit cards and contactless payment systems.
- If electronic or card payment is not possible, customers should come with exact cash payment or check, if available.
- Magazines, coffee, and other amenities will not be available.
- Other personal grooming businesses, such as nail salons and spa services, including massage, facials and waxing are still prohibited.
- The City of Long Beach and Los Angeles County fall in the purple tier (Widespread), which allows for salons, barber shops and malls to resume indoor operations if tehy adhere to strict safety regulations.
REMINDER – City of Long Beach Emergency Microloan Program
- The City’s new Emergency Microloan Program offers low-interest loans to businesses and 501c3 nonprofits with five employees or less.
- Loan amounts range from $2,500 to $10,000.
- Loan payments may be deferred up to 9-months.
- The repayment period is 5-7 years.
- The interest rate is 2.44 %.
- Loan proceeds can be used on business expenses, such as payroll costs, rent, supplies, utilities and more.
- Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Tuesday, September 1, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
September 1, 2020 Daily Updates:
REMINDER: L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund Applications Are Now Open
- The L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund is open to micro-entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits located in L.A. County.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to very small non-profits and very small businesses.
- Very small business = yearly gross revenue of more than $100,000 but less than $1 million.
- Very small non-profit (501c3 or 501c6) = total revenue less than $1 million.
- $25,000 grants to small businesses
- Small business = yearly gross revenue of more than $1,000,000 but less than $5,000,000.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the FOURTH round of funding will open August 31, 2020 and close September 4, 2020.
- Visit https://www.lacovidfund.org/grants to learn more about this grant opportunity.
Governor Newsom Signs Statewide COVID-19 Tenant and Landlord Protection Legislation
- Under the legislation, no tenant can be evicted before February 1, 2021 as a result of rent owed due to a COVID-19 related hardship accrued between March 4 – August 31, 2020, if the tenant provides a declaration of hardship according to the legislation's timelines.
- For a COVID-19 related hardship that accrues between September 1, 2020 – January 31, 2021, tenants must also pay at least 25 percent of the rent due to avoid eviction.
- Tenants are still responsible for paying unpaid amounts to landlords, but those unpaid amounts cannot be the basis for an eviction.
- Landlords may begin to recover this debt on March 1, 2021, and small claims court jurisdiction is temporarily expanded to allow landlords to recover these amounts. Landlords who do not follow the court evictions process will face increased penalties under the Act.
- Additional legal and financial protections for tenants include:
- Extending the notice period for nonpayment of rent from 3 to 15 days to provide tenant additional time to respond to landlord’s notice to pay rent or quit.
- Requiring landlords to provide hardship declaration forms in a different language if rental agreement was negotiated in a different language.
- Providing tenants, a backstop if they have a good reason for failing to return the hardship declaration within 15 days.
- Requiring landlords to provide tenants a notice detailing their rights under the Act.
- Limiting public disclosure of eviction cases involving nonpayment of rent between March 4, 2020 – January 31, 2021.
- Protecting tenants against being evicted for “just cause” if the landlord is shown to be really evicting the tenant for COVID-19-related nonpayment of rent.
- Existing local ordinances can generally remain in place until they expire, and future local action cannot undermine this Act’s framework.
- Additional information on the Tenant, Homeowner, and Small Landlord Relief and Stabilization Act can be found here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, August 31, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
August 31, 2020 Daily Updates:
State of California Announces Four Risk-Based Tiers to Evaluate COVID-19
- New measures for monitoring the spread of the COVID-19 were announced by Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday, August 28.
- The color-coded tiers, ranging from purple (widespread) to yellow (minimal), place Long Beach and all of Los Angeles into the purple category.
- The restrictions for the purple category are similar to being on the monitoring list in the former system.
- The tiered system, part of Newsom’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, is based on two key metrics: the number of new cases per day (per 100,000 residents) and the positivity rate (number of positive test results compared to all tests administered).
- The breakdown for each tier is as follows:
- Purple (widespread) - more than seven daily new cases (per 100k); positivity rate greater than 8%
- Red (substantial) - four to seven daily new cases (per 100k); 5% to 8% positivity rate
- Orange (moderate) - one to 3.9 daily new cases (per 100k); 2% to 4.9% positivity rate
- Yellow (minimal) - less than one daily new case (per 100k); less than 2% positivity rate
- The calculations for positivity rates and case rates are being revised, per the State.
- The revised indicators will be on the City’s COVID-19 dashboard starting on Monday, August 31.
- The new tiers also dictate the reopening phase. Details regarding what’s allowed to be open and what’s closed under the Blueprint for a Safer Economy are available at https://covid19.ca.gov/.
- While the State outlines, broadly, what is allowed under each tier starting August 31, details regarding what can be open, and protocols for operation, are at the direction of the City Health Officer.
- Openings of new sectors or changes to current business operations should only occur following the issuance of revised Health Orders from the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services.
- For more information, please read the City’s press release.
L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund Applications Are Now Open
- The L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund is open to micro-entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits located in L.A. County.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to very small non-profits and very small businesses.
- Very small business = yearly gross revenue of more than $100,000 but less than $1 million.
- Very small non-profit (501c3 or 501c6) = total revenue less than $1 million.
- $25,000 grants to small businesses
- Small business = yearly gross revenue of more than $1,000,000 but less than $5,000,000.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the FOURTH round of funding will open August 31, 2020 and close September 4, 2020.
- Visit https://www.lacovidfund.org/grants to learn more about this grant opportunity.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Tuesday, August 18, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
August 18, 2020 Daily Updates:
LISC Neighborhood Business Grant Program
- Through the Neighborhood Business Grant Program, funded by Lowe’s, LISC will award $20,000 grants to 75 businesses in the Los Angeles Area.
- Designed to help small business owners meet their most immediate needs during this time, grant funds may be used to pay rent and utilities, meet payroll, and take care of other operational costs.
- The Neighborhood Business Grants program will prioritize:
- Businesses owned by people of color
- Businesses owned by women
- Businesses located in low-income areas
- Businesses in these sectors: Construction, Manufacturing, Retail, Transportation, Warehousing, Real Estate Renting or Leasing.
- While those industry categories are the priority, businesses outside of those categories are also eligible.
- The application window is August 18-23, 2020. To apply for the grant click here.
REMINDER: City to Distribute More Free Personal Protective Equipment to Long Beach Businesses
- Up to 5,000 employees at Long Beach-based businesses can receive free face coverings, face shields and hand sanitizer through a new multi-agency effort.
- This personal protective equipment (PPE) has been made available to California small businesses through the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) in collaboration with the California Office of the Small Business Advocate.
- Other partners include the Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network (PGWIN), the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the Los Angeles Regional Small Business Development Center Network (LA SBDC) hosted by Long Beach City College (LBCC).
- Businesses can request the PPE bundles by calling the City’s business hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249) or by completing a request form on the City’s Business support website at longbeach.gov/4BIZ.
- The PPE bundles are limited to 10 per establishment, and will be offered on a first come, first served basis until supplies are no longer available.
- To ensure physical distancing at pick-up, each business will receive an appointment pick-up time at a location near them.
Applications Available for City of Long Beach Small Business Restart Grants
- Application forms and program materials are available for a small business assistance program to provide relief to qualified businesses that sustained property damage and loss of inventory on May 31, 2020.
- Applicants may be eligible for up to $10,000 in SBR Grant funding.
- SBR Grant funds may be used for the following purposes:
- Replacing lost inventory
- Making repairs to the exterior or interior of a business
- Replacing lost equipment
- Repairing damaged equipment
- Paying business interruption insurance deductibles
- Working capital to continue operations
- On August 4th, the City Council approved $1 million to assist Long Beach small businesses that were impacted on May 31, 2020. Combined with other funding sources, a total of $1.25 million in grant funds are available.
- Business owners can call the Long Beach Business Hotline, 562.570.4BIZ (4249) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays with questions.
- To apply for the grant click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Tuesday, August 11, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
August 11, 2020 Daily Updates:
REMINDER: City to Distribute More Free Personal Protective Equipment to Long Beach Businesses
- Up to 5,000 employees at Long Beach-based businesses can receive free face coverings, face shields and hand sanitizer through a new multi-agency effort.
- This personal protective equipment (PPE) has been made available to California small businesses through the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) in collaboration with the California Office of the Small Business Advocate.
- Other partners include the Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network (PGWIN), the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the Los Angeles Regional Small Business Development Center Network (LA SBDC) hosted by Long Beach City College (LBCC).
- Businesses can request the PPE bundles by calling the City’s business hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249) or by completing a request form on the City’s Business support website at longbeach.gov/4BIZ.
- The PPE bundles are limited to 10 per establishment, and will be offered on a first come, first served basis until supplies are no longer available.
- To ensure physical distancing at pick-up, each business will receive an appointment pick-up time at a location near them.
$3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses and Nonprofits
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the FOURTH round of funding will open August 17, 2020.
- Visit https://www.lacovidfund.org/grants to learn more about this grant opportunity.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Friday, August 7, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
August 7, 2020 Daily Updates:
City to Distribute More Free Personal Protective Equipment to Long Beach Businesses
- Up to 5,000 employees at Long Beach-based businesses can receive free face coverings, face shields and hand sanitizer through a new multi-agency effort.
- This personal protective equipment (PPE) has been made available to California small businesses through the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) in collaboration with the California Office of the Small Business Advocate.
- Other partners include the Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network (PGWIN), the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the Los Angeles Regional Small Business Development Center Network (LA SBDC) hosted by Long Beach City College (LBCC).
- Businesses can request the PPE bundles by calling the City’s business hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249) or by completing a request form on the City’s Business support website at longbeach.gov/4BIZ.
- The PPE bundles are limited to 10 per establishment, and will be offered on a first come, first served basis until supplies are no longer available.
- To ensure physical distancing at pick-up, each business will receive an appointment pick-up time at a location near them.
City Offers Extended Relief for Renters Impacted by COVID-19
- The Long Beach City Council voted unanimously on July 29 to extend an emergency ordinance that halts evictions for residential and certain commercial tenants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The amendment extends the current eviction moratorium and rent deferment period for an additional 60 days, to September 30, 2020.
- If a tenant is unable to pay rent between March 4, 2020, and September 30, 2020, due to a reduction in income caused by COVID-19, they must notify their landlord that rent will not be paid on time.
- During that time period, protected tenants may delay payment of rent to landlords. Deferred payments must be made no later than July 31, 2021, and cannot incur late charges or other fees until that time.
- Tenants are encouraged to establish a payment plan to make installments of deferred rent over the repayment period.
- Tenants are required to provide landlords with documentation of substantial income losses caused by job layoffs, out-of-pocket medical expenses or requirements to stay at home due to COVID-19.
- Through September 30, 2020, landlords issuing rental nonpayment notifications must include information about the City’s emergency ordinance to ensure that tenants are aware of their rights.
- The moratorium and rent deferment does not apply to large commercial tenants that are multi-national or publicly traded companies and companies with 500 or more employees, tenants at the Long Beach Airport, or tenants in the Harbor.
- The City Council first adopted an emergency eviction moratorium in March amid the COVID-19 outbreak, and issued an extension of the ordinance in May.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Thursday, August 6, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
August 6, 2020 Daily Updates:
REMINDER: $3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses and Nonprofits
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the third round of funding are open through 11:59pm, August 7, 2020.
- Visit LACOVIDFund.org to learn more about this grant opportunity.
- Click here to access the grant application.
CDC Small Business Finance – Community Advantage Recovery Loan
- CDC Small Business Finance’s Community Advantage Recovery Loan is now available for veteran-owned businesses and businesses located in low-to-moderate income areas.
- Up to $250,000 is available per business.
- Loan terms up to 10 years are available.
- CDC Small Business Finance will waive all packaging and SBA Guarantee fees.
- SBA will make the first 6 months of payments on the loan under the CARES Act.
- A minimum credit score of 620 is required to apply for the loan program.
- Interest rates start at prime + 2.75 percent.
- CDC Small Business Finance provides up to 15 hours of free business advising to loan recipients.
- Interested businesses should contact Noé Castillo, Loan Officer, at ncastillo@cdcloans.com.
Applications Available for City of Long Beach Small Business Restart Grants
- Application forms and program materials are available for a small business assistance program to provide relief to qualified businesses that sustained property damage and loss of inventory on May 31, 2020.
- Applicants may be eligible for up to $10,000 in SBR Grant funding.
- SBR Grant funds may be used for the following purposes:
- Replacing lost inventory
- Making repairs to the exterior or interior of a business
- Replacing lost equipment
- Repairing damaged equipment
- Paying business interruption insurance deductibles
- Working capital to continue operations
- After completing the Business Damage Assessment Form, business operators will be contacted to receive instructions on how to apply.
- On August 4th, the City Council approved $1 million to assist Long Beach small businesses that were impacted on May 31, 2020. Combined with other funding sources, a total of $1.25 million in grant funds are available.
- Business owners can call the Long Beach Business Hotline, 562.570.4BIZ (4249) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays with questions.
- For more information, read the City’s press release.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Thursday, July 23, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 23, 2020 Daily Updates:
REMINDER: $3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses and Nonprofits
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- Workers participating in the gig economy, street vendors, sole proprietors, independent contractors, 1099 workers, and/or LLCs with revenues of $100,000 or less in the most recent available tax return.
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Registered for-profit business entities that have a yearly gross revenue of more than $100,00 but less than $1 million based on most recent available tax return.
- Registered 501c3 organizations that have annual gross revenue of less than $1 million based on most recent available 990 form.
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the second round of funding are open July 20th – July 24th.
- Visit LACOVIDFund.org to learn more about this grant opportunity.
- Click here to access the grant application.
CARES Act: Coronavirus Relief Fund
- On July 14, 2020, the Long Beach City Council approved a spending plan for the City’s Coronavirus Relief Fund allocation from the State of California. The general framework for funding prioritizes COVID-19 emergency response costs, community support, and business recovery and resiliency programs.
- The City Council approved $6,750,000 in funding to support transition grants for small businesses and non-profits, supplies and technology for economic recovery, economic inclusion and equity programs, and the City’s Open Streets Initiative.
- The City is in the process of preparing application materials for each funding opportunity. Each program funded through the City’s CRF allocation will be screened through a commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring the programs benefit the entire community, particularly those who are most impacted by COVID-19. Additional details and eligibility requirements for each program are forthcoming.
- For those who are interested in being considered for one of the programs mentioned above, please complete the CARES Act Interest Form.
REMINDER: City of Long Beach Small Business Restart Grants
- On June 16, 2020, the City Council approved a recommendation to request the City Manager to establish a “Rebuild Long Beach Relief Fund” to assist small businesses with repair and loss recovery from damages sustained during the evening of May 31, 2020.
- The Small Business Restart (SBR) Grant is the first of several programs that will be made available as a part of the Rebuild Long Beach Relief Fund.
- The SBR Grant Program is designed to provide relief to help small businesses that were impacted by damages, theft, or vandalism related to the events that occurred on May 31, 2020.
- Approximately $250,000 in funding is currently available for the SBR Grant Program, which provide grants up to $2,000 to eligible small businesses.
- SBR Grant funds may be used for the following purposes:
- Replacing lost inventory
- Making repairs to the exterior/interior of a business
- Replacing lost equipment
- Repairing damaged equipment
- Paying business interruption insurance deductibles
- Working capital to continue operations
- Every applicant will be required to submit supporting documentation verifying damages and/or losses, which may include:
- Pictures
- Bids for interior/exterior building repairs
- Quotes for equipment that needs to be repaired or replaced
- Police report
- Insurance claim documentation
- Other relevant information
- Eligibility requirements vary depending on the source of funding for each grant. For more information on eligibility requirements click here.
- To get started, interested applicants are asked to complete a City of Long Beach Business Damage Assessment Form.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, July 20, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 20, 2020 Daily Updates:
$3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses and Nonprofits
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- Workers participating in the gig economy, street vendors, sole proprietors, independent contractors, 1099 workers, and/or LLCs with revenues of $100,000 or less in the most recent available tax return.
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Registered for-profit business entities that have a yearly gross revenue of more than $100,00 but less than $1 million based on most recent available tax return.
- Registered 501c3 organizations that have annual gross revenue of less than $1 million based on most recent available 990 form.
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the second round of funding are open July 20th – July 24th.
- Visit LACOVIDFund.org to learn more about this grant opportunity.
- Click here to access the grant application.
Webinar Series: Retail Road to Recovery
- The Small Business Development Center is hosting a free, intensive 5-part class designed to assist existing brick and mortar retailers, restaurants, and services in their recovery from the challenges created by the COVID-19 shutdown and continually evolving regulations.
- What can participants expect?
- An online cohort style learning environment of up to 35 participants.
- Five interactive, working classes that meet every week for two hours each.
- Individual consulting sessions, with an SBDC Advisor between classes, to work on homework and specific issues.
- The classes will cover the following:
- Understanding key financial reports and ratios.
- Taking your business online.
- Social media as a marketing and sales tool.
- In-store operations, inventory control, and CRM.
- Funding recovery.
- To learn more and register, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Wednesday, July 15 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 15, 2020 Daily Updates:
REMINDER: City of Long Beach Small Business Restart Grants
- On June 16, 2020, the City Council approved a recommendation to request the City Manager to establish a “Rebuild Long Beach Relief Fund” to assist small businesses with repair and loss recovery from damages sustained during the evening of May 31, 2020.
- The Small Business Restart (SBR) Grant is the first of several programs that will be made available as a part of the Rebuild Long Beach Relief Fund.
- The SBR Grant Program is designed to provide relief to help small businesses that were impacted by damages, theft, or vandalism related to the events that occurred on May 31, 2020.
- Approximately $250,000 in funding is currently available for the SBR Grant Program, which provide grants up to $2,000 to eligible small businesses.
- SBR Grant funds may be used for the following purposes:
- Replacing lost inventory
- Making repairs to the exterior/interior of a business
- Replacing lost equipment
- Repairing damaged equipment
- Paying business interruption insurance deductibles
- Working capital to continue operations
- Every applicant will be required to submit supporting documentation verifying damages and/or losses, which may include:
- Pictures
- Bids for interior/exterior building repairs
- Quotes for equipment that needs to be repaired or replaced
- Police report
- Insurance claim documentation
- Other relevant information
- Eligibility requirements vary depending on the source of funding for each grant. For more information on eligibility requirements click here.
- To get started, interested applicants are asked to complete a City of Long Beach Business Damage Assessment Form.
- If an applicant needs help completing the form, they can contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
City of Long Beach Small Business Restart Grants Office Hours
- The Economic Development Department is now accepting appointments to help businesses owners complete the Small Business Restart Grant application in their preferred language.
- Starting Tuesday, July 21st our Office Hours are on Tuesday’s 8:00am – 12:00pm and Thursday’s 12:00pm – 5:00pm.
- To secure a 1-hour appointment with language interpretation please email 4biz@longbeach.gov with a time slot and if applicable, specify the language interpretation needed
- Walk ups without appointment are welcome (language interpretation cannot be guaranteed without appointment).
- Office hours are located at the outdoor City Hall Plaza located at 411 W Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, July 13, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 13, 2020 Daily Updates:
Governor Newsom Announces Further Closures to Slow the Spread of COVID-19
- The State of California has announced additional closures to indoor operations in all Southern California counties.
- The City of Long Beach will release an updated Health Order mandating the closure of additional indoor operations that bring together people from different households in settings where physical distance and the wearing of face-coverings are difficult to align with the State’s orders.
- The following businesses may conduct outdoor operations, in accordance with the Long Beach Health Order and provided that any City-issued permit required for the activity is obtained:
- Personal care services, including nail salons, tanning salons, esthetician, skin care and cosmetology services; body art professionals, tattoo parlors, micro blading and permanent make-up and piercing shops; massage therapy (in non-healthcare settings)
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Hair salons and barbers
- Religious services and cultural ceremonies
- Political protests
- Indoor shopping malls must close to the public, except for stores and vendors normally accessible from the exterior of the shopping mall. Stores and vendors located on the interior of a shopping mall may operate for curbside, door side or other outdoor delivery only. Strip malls, outlet malls and outdoor swap meets may continue to operate.
- Businesses whose operations require employees work from an office worksite who are not identified as an essential business, healthcare operation or essential infrastructure may operate via telework and for minimum basic operations only.
- The mandatory closure goes into effect tonight, just after midnight (12:01 a.m., July 14, 2020). The amended City of Long Beach Health Order detailing the closures will be posted later today at longbeach.gov/COVID19.
- This Order requires the continued closure of indoor operations for restaurants, museums, botanical gardens and aquariums, as well as the continued closure of bars and similar facilities that do not hold a City-issued restaurant permit. These mandated closures are now in effect statewide.
- Due to an inability to practice physical distancing, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms located in common spaces and at multi-family residential properties are required to close.
- Businesses with questions regarding mandatory closures may call the City of Long Beach’s business information line between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays at 562.570.4BIZ.
- For more information, please read the City’s Press Release.
Thursday, July 9, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 9, 2020 Daily Updates:
City of Long Beach COVID-19 Business Toolkit
- The City of Long Beach released a new COVID-19 Business Toolkit that provides:
- Guidance for businesses to support the safety of employees and customers.
- Information on COVID-19 resources and information phone lines.
- A summary of current business sanitation and physical distancing protocols.
- Resources to communicate with staff and customers.
- To access the toolkit, click here.
REMINDER: $3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the first round of funding open July 6th – July 10th.
- Click here to access the grant application.
- You may also visit LACOVIDFund.org to access Fund resources online.
Calling All Californians: #ShopSafeShopLocal
- The Governor’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery announced a new campaign, Calling All Californians: #ShopSafeShopLocal, to encourage Californians to support small businesses in their communities.
- This campaign is a call to action to help all California small businesses operate safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their digital footprints.
- The State has partnered with industry-leading companies and launched a website that connects California’s small business owners to critical tools and resources.
- Examples of some of the resources include:
- Free technical assistance in 31 different languages from California’s network of small business centers.
- Resources, discounts and offers from the State’s partners to help businesses operate safely, such as a branded digital and print toolkit that is free to download and customize.
- Latest State industry guidance and county variances.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) through SafelyMakingCa.org, California’s new PPE marketplace.
- For more information, please click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, July 6, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 6, 2020 Daily Updates:
Paycheck Protection Program Extension
- The deadline for small businesses to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been extended to Saturday, August 8.
- As a reminder, PPP is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll.
- Any small business that meets SBA’s size standards are eligible, including sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed persons.
- The loan will be fully forgiven if the funds are used for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities (at least 60% of the forgiven amount must have been used for payroll).
- Loan payments will also be deferred for six months. No collateral or personal guarantees are required. Neither the government nor lenders will charge small businesses any fees.
- Loans issued prior to June 5 have a maturity of 2 years. Loans issued after June 5 have a maturity of 5 years. All loans have an interest rate of 1%.
- To find eligible PPP lenders, click here.
$3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Applications for the first round of funding open July 6th – July 10th.
- Click here to access the grant application.
- You may also visit LACOVIDFund.org to access Fund resources online.
Reminder: Temporary Open Streets for Long Beach Businesses
- To assist Long Beach businesses in the COVID-19 recovery, the City of Long Beach Department of Public Works is looking to streamline temporary repurposing of the sidewalk and roadway for dining, customer queuing, and vehicle loading.
- Business owners who are interested in the temporary use of the public right-of-way for their businesses, should reference the Open Streets Toolkit and complete the Open Streets Form.
- If a business is in a Business Improvement District (BID), they are encouraged to reach out to the business association that manages their BID. For more information on the City’s BIDs, click here.
- Restaurants wishing to modify their parking lot to provide music, outdoor seating, or entertainment are directed to apply for a Special Events – Occasional Event Permit. Application materials are available here.
- To review the Open Streets frequently asked questions, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
July 1, 2020 Daily Updates:
Governor Newsom Announces Mandatory Closure of Indoor Dining, Indoor Museum Spaces in Los Angeles County
- Today, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the mandatory closure of indoor dining rooms and indoor museum spaces in Los Angeles County to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- Outdoor spaces at museums and the Aquarium of the Pacific may remain open, and restaurants may operate for outdoor dining, curbside and door side pick-up and delivery only.
- The mandatory closure goes into effect tonight, just after midnight (12:01 a.m., July 2, 2020). The amended City of Long Beach Health Order detailing the closures will be posted later today at longbeach.gov/COVID19.
- Restaurants also can offer drive-in service of food as part of their normal operations.
- Restaurants can take orders and deliver food car-side (car hop) within their own parking lots without the need for additional permits.
- Alcohol service is not permitted as part of restaurant drive-in operations.
- Those wishing to modify their parking lot or traffic flow or provide music, outdoor seating or entertainment are directed to apply for a Special Events – Occasional Entertainment Permit. Application materials are available online, and more information is available by calling (562) 570-5333.
- These mandatory closures are in addition to the mandatory closure of bars and the July 4 weekend closure of beaches and firework shows in Long Beach.
- Businesses with questions regarding mandatory closures may call the City of Long Beach’s business information line between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays at 562.570.4BIZ.
$3 Million in Grants Available for Eligible Small Businesses
- L.A. County and numerous philanthropic partners have established the L.A. Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund for small businesses, non-profits, and micro-entrepreneurs facing health and economic challenges due to COVID-19.
- The LA Regional COVID-19 Recovery Fund aims to distribute:
- $5,000 grants to micro-entrepreneurs
- $15,000 grants to non-profits and small businesses.
- Grants will be distributed through an equitable lottery system, to ensure equitable access to capital across various demographics in the Los Angeles region.
- Register for an upcoming webinar, to learn more about eligibility & deadlines:
- Thursday, July 2 at Noon: Click here to register.
- You may also visit LACOVIDFund.org to access Fund resources online.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Friday, June 26, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 26, 2020 Daily Updates:
City Announces Reopening of Additional Personal Care Businesses
- The City announced that, per the current Safer at Home Health Order, more personal care establishments will be permitted to reopen today, Friday, June 26, with physical distancing and sanitization requirements in place.
- Tattoo parlors, cosmetology services, and body art professionals are among those that will now be able to reopen.
- Personal care establishments may reopen with restrictions and with property safety protocols in place, such as a minimum six feet of distance between service stations, frequent sanitization of high-tough surfaces, and limited patron capacity.
- Facial coverings for both employees and patrons are required, and face shields are to be worn by workers why providing a service that requires the removal of a client’s face covering to provide the personal service.
- Applicable safety protocols are further outlined in the City’s latest Health Order.
- Click here for the Nail Salon Protocols and here for the Personal Care Establishments Protocols.
- Movie theaters and family entertainment centers, such as bowling alleys, miniature golf and arcades remain closed in Long Beach.
Safer at Work: Steps to Reopening Your Business
- The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) is joining forces with specialists to help provide guidance on how to reopen for business from the Safer at Work approach.
- LAEDC is hosting a risk mitigation webinar on Tuesday, June 30 at 11:00 a.m., which will include a presentation and panel discussion.
- The webinar will be covering space planning strategies, risk mitigation, cleaning and sterilization guidelines to the office and helping employees and clients feel safe.
- Discussion topics:
- AECOM: space planning strategies for office environments
- Nixon Peabody: potential legal liabilities that employers should know about as they welcome back employees and the public
- LAEDC: current business concerns and availability of financial resources
- Servicon Systems: cleaning and sterilization tips for office environment
- The register, click here.
- Please send your questions and concerns on reopening your business to shane.cullen@laedc.org.
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 23, 2020 Daily Updates:
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Forgiveness Application Webinar
- The Small Business Development Center L.A. Network is hosting a webinar that will cover the PPP loan forgiveness application for the following business structures:
- Self-employed individuals
- Single-member LLC
- S-Corp
- Anyone filing a Schedule C
- The webinar is taking place Wednesday, June 24 at 1:00 pm
- To learn more and register, click here.
Deadline to Apply for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan
- The deadline to apply for the PPP loan is June 30, 2020.
- There is still round 2 PPP funding available for business owners expressing interest in PPP.
- As a reminder, PPP is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll.
- Any small business that meets SBA’s size standards are eligible, including sole proprietors, independent contractors, and self-employed persons.
- The loan will be fully forgiven if the funds are used for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities (at least 60% of the forgiven amount must have been used for payroll).
- Loan payments will also be deferred for six months. No collateral or personal guarantees are required. Neither the government nor lenders will charge small businesses any fees.
- Loans issued prior to June 5 have a maturity of 2 years. Loans issued after June 5 have a maturity of 5 years. All loans have an interest rate of 1%.
- To find eligible PPP lenders, click here.
Reminder: Transient Oriented Communities – Small Business Recovery Loan Program
- The L.A. County Development Authority, with funding from L.A. Metro, has a program to provide emergency relief to help small businesses.
- Only businesses located within a quarter-mile of a Major Transit Stop are eligible for this loan program.
- Please use this mapping tool to verify your business location.
- Approximately $850,000 is available for this loan program, which will fund approximately 40 loans.
- The maximum loan amount is $20,000.
- The interest rate is currently 2.44 percent.
- The loan term is 5 years.
- Payment of principal and interest is deferred for the first 12 months.
- Loan proceeds can be used for the following purposes:
- Employee payroll
- Employee sick time payroll
- Rent, utilities, and insurance
- Working capital to continue operations
- Payment of outstanding business expenses
- Adaptive business practices needed to remain open
- Only businesses with 25 or fewer employees are eligible.
- The extending application period is June 8, 2020, 12 p.m. to June 26, 2020, 5 p.m.
- For more information on this loan program, click here.
- Please direct questions to TOCloans@lacda.org or (626) 943-3818.
Friday, June 19, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 19, 2020 Daily Updates:
Long Beach Announces Timeline Reopening of Bars and Personal Grooming
- Bars and nail salons will be permitted to open today, June 19, provided they meet physical distancing and sanitization requirements.
- Religious services and cultural ceremonies, such as funerals, can now be conducted outside with modifications.
- Bars and wineries may reopen at 50 percent capacity, with bar areas closed and with no standing permitted. Patrons may use restaurant-style seating.
- Nail salons may reopen with restrictions and with proper safety protocols in place, such as a minimum of six feet of distance between service stations, mandatory facial coverings for both employees and patrons, frequent sanitization of high-touch surfaces and limited patron capacity.
- Starting June 26, personal care services (e.g., tattoo parlors, cosmetology services, body-waxing, spa and massage therapy in non-healthcare settings, body art professionals and piercing shops) will be permitted to reopen with restrictions and with property safety protocols in place.
- The following businesses are to remain closed in Long Beach until further notice:
- Movie theaters
- Family entertainment centers, such as, bowling alleys, miniature golf, and arcades
- For more information, read the City’s press release.
- To review the new Health Order (highly-encouraged), click here.
- To review the different business protocols that need to be followed, navigate to page 23 of the Health Order or click here and navigate to the “Health Orders and Protocol” section.
City to Distribute Free Face Shields to Long Beach Bars, Restaurants and Personal Care Establishments
- Today and this weekend, the City of Long Beach will distribute free face shields to Long Beach-based bars, restaurants and personal care businesses to provide required safety equipment to businesses that may not have immediate access to safely reopen this weekend or next weekend.
- Bar, restaurant and personal care establishment representatives can pick up face shields in the parking lot of Long Beach Fire Department Headquarters located at 3205 Lakewood Blvd.
- Shields are limited to 20 per establishment, and will be offered on a first come, first served basis until supplies are no longer available.
- Representatives will need to provide their name and the business name.
- Shields will be available for pickup through the weekend on the following days and times:
- Friday, June 19, from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Saturday, June 20, from 9 a.m. – noon
- Sunday, June 21, from 9 a.m. - noon
SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Businesses Affected by Civil Unrest
- Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to California businesses and residents affected by civil unrest that began May 26, 2020.
- Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.
- SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.
- Interest rates can be as low as 3 percent for businesses and 2.75 percent for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years.
- Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
- For more information, click here.
- The deadline to apply for property damage is August 17, 2020.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Wednesday, June 17, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 17, 2020 Daily Updates:
FINAL REMINDER: LISC Small Business Relief Grant Application Due Today
- The Small Business Relief Grants, which are part of LISC’s Rapid Relief & Recovery Fund programs to help businesses with immediate financial support, is now open for another round of applications.
- Grants will be made in the amounts of $5,000, $7,500, and $10,000, and $20,000.
- Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, June 17th at 8:59 p.m. (PT).
- Before completing the application, we recommend you review the Grant Information Overview and FAQ, which can be found here.
- Priority will be given especially to entrepreneurs of color, women-and veteran-owned businesses, and other enterprises in historically under-served places who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital.
- To apply, click on the following link: Grant Application.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act – How Will This Affect Loan Forgiveness
- The SBDC is hosting a webinar that will address questions about PPP loans, allowable expenses, and which expenses may be forgiven.
- The webinar will cover the PPP forgiveness application and new rules under the PPP Flexibility Act.
- SBDC consultants will answer attendee questions submitted through the online Q&A.
- The webinar is happening Thursday, June 18 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm.
- To register, click here.
City of Long Beach Business License Relief
- In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the City of Long Beach is waiving all penalties that would have applied to past due business license tax bills starting on March 16, 2020 and ending on August 31, 2020.
- This will allow additional time for businesses to pay their business license tax bill without receiving penalties or any additional penalties if penalties had applied prior to March 16, 2020.
- If a past due bill remains unpaid, then penalties will begin to apply again starting on September 1, 2020.
- If a business owner has questions regarding this issue, they can all (562) 570-6211 or email lbbiz@longbeach.gov.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, June 15, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 15, 2020 Daily Updates:
SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Advance Program Reopened to All Eligible Small Businesses
- Today, the SBA announced that the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portal was reopened to all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19.
- These loans may be used to pay debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact, and that aren’t already covered by a Paycheck Protection Program loan.
- The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%.
- To keep payments affordable for small businesses, SBA offers loans with long repayment terms, up to a maximum of 30 years. Plus, the first payment is deferred for one year.
- In addition, small businesses and non-profits may request, as part of their loan application, an EIDL Advance of up to $10,000.
- The EIDL Advance is designed to provide emergency economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. This advance will not have to be repaid, and small businesses may receive an advance even if they are not approved for a loan.
Reminder: L.A. Represents: Small Business Protection & Representation
- L.A. Represents will build a new support system for small businesses devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, overseen by volunteers and advocates at Bet Tzedek Legal Services.
- This program provides small businesses least likely to have access to effective legal services free assistance as they:
- Confront new workplace regulations
- Renegotiate commercial leases
- Apply for government relief programs
- Navigate compliance with emergency health and safety orders
- Businesses may receive free representation if they meet an income eligibility threshold of no more than 500% Federal Poverty Guidelines (about $8,500 per month for a household of four) and no more than $50,000 in liquid assets.
- Small businesses who need an attorney to represent them in COVID-related matters can apply for free representation.
- Free webinars and FAQs on a variety of topics are available on Bet Tzedek’s website.
- For more information on the L.A. Represents Program, click here.
Developing a Plan to Start (or Recover) Your Business in Today’s Unusual Times
- The Small Business Development Center is hosting a webinar on June 24, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. that will help businesses develop a focused business plan.
- In this interactive webinar, businesses will learn how to:
- Break apart components of the business plan into manageable steps
- Define their business succinctly
- Research their competition and target market
- Develop their operating and marketing plans
- Start understanding their financial statements
- To register, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Thursday, June 11, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 11, 2020 Daily Updates:
Long Beach Launches SafeBiz, Physical Distancing Self-Certification for Businesses
- Effective today, the City of Long Beach announced the official launching of SafeBiz, a web-interface which allows businesses, which may open according to the “Safer at Home” Health Order to self-certify that they are committed to re-opening their business safely.
- SafeBiz guides business owners through a checklist of safety measures required by the “Safer at Home” order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- This includes measures to:
- Protect employee health
- Keep crowds from gathering
- Keep people at least six feet apart and prevent unnecessary contact
- Increase sanitation measures to support a safe environment for patrons.
- For more information, business owners are encouraged to reference the SafeBiz Form.
Temporary Open Streets for Long Beach Businesses
- To assist Long Beach businesses in the COVID-19 recovery, the City of Long Beach Department of Public Works is looking to streamline temporary repurposing of the sidewalk and roadway for dining, customer queuing, and vehicle loading.
- Business owners who are interested in the temporary use of the public right-of-way for their businesses, should reference the Open Streets Toolkit and complete the Open Streets Form.
- If a business is in a Business Improvement District (BID), they are encouraged to reach out to the business association that manages their BID. For more information on the City’s BIDs, click here.
- Restaurants wishing to modify their parking lot to provide music, outdoor seating, or entertainment are directed to apply for a Special Events – Occasional Event Permit. Application materials are available here.
Reminder: FedEx #SupportSmall Grants
- FedEx is giving $1 million in grants to small businesses that have been impacted financially by the COVID-19 crisis in the U.S.
- Each grant recipient will receive a check for $5,000. Additionally, each recipient will receive a $500 credit at FedEx Office to use toward printing services.
- There will be a total of 200 grants awarded.
- Eligibility:
- Must be older than 18 years old
- Must be a U.S. based for-profit small business in operation and selling for more than 1 year
- Must have less than 50 employees
- Must have less than $5 million in annual sales revenue in 2019
- Must have shipped in the last 12 months and/or plan to ship in the coming 12 months as a part of your business
- Non-profits, franchised businesses, direct-seller/reseller businesses, independent consultants, and previous winners in the FedEx Small Business Grant contest are not eligible to apply for this grant
- Applications are being accepted from May 25, 2020, through June 12, 2020.
- To learn more and to apply for this grant, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 10, 2020 Daily Updates
Update: City of Long Beach Safer at Home Order
- Today Mayor Garcia announced that beginning Friday, June 12, 2020, the following industries will be allowed to reopen in Long Beach with modifications:
- Gyms and fitness facilities
- Museums, galleries, and the Aquarium of the Pacific
- Day and youth camps
- Hotels and resorts
- Music, film, and TV production
- Campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor recreation
- While the State of California is allowing bars and family entertainment centers to reopen in some parts of the State, local health officials do not believe Long Beach or L.A. County are ready to reopen those sectors.
- More information on Long Beach’s re-openings and specific guidance will be available in the days ahead at www.longbeach.gov/4BIZ.
Update: California Department of Insurance – Insurance Coverage During Civil Unrest Fact Sheet Available in Multiple Languages
- To help California business owners understand some of the key insurance issues relating to civil unrest, the California Department of Insurance has developed a fact sheet to present a general overview of relevant insurance coverages and some important tips.
- Although the information serves as an overview, insurance policyholders are strongly encouraged to read the terms of the policy purchased, as terms and definitions can vary from one policy to another.
- Per the fact sheet, standard Business/Commercial Insurance policies typically include coverage for physical loss or damage to the insured premises and other business property resulting from looting, vandalism, and riots.
- Whether a specific loss will be covered depends on the actual language in the applicable policy and any coverage exclusions that may apply. It is important to check your specific insurance policy for the following coverages:
- Vandalism and malicious mischief
- Riot and civil commotion
- Business income coverage
- Civil authority coverage
- Glass coverage
- The CA Department of Insurance has recently translated the fact sheet in Spanish, Vietnamese, Hmong, and Mandarin.
ASCEND Los Angeles Management Program
- Ascend LA brings together a network of non-profit lenders, education providers, and business-to-business market makers to provide diverse entrepreneurs with the resources and market access they need to accelerate business growth.
- ASCEND LA will lead a cohort of diverse small businesses through a 20-session management education program that focuses on the business foundation, capacity, and capital necessary to acquire corporate and government contracts.
- ASCEND LA is hosting virtual information sessions to give business owners an opportunity to learn more about this program. The next information session is on June 16th, 2020 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- To register for the information session, click here.
- The program is free for qualified businesses.
- To learn more about the ASCEND LA Program, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, June 8, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 8, 2020 Daily Updates
FedEx #SupportSmall Grants
- FedEx is giving $1 million in grants to small businesses that have been impacted financially by the COVID-19 crisis in the U.S.
- Each grant recipient will receive a check for $5,000. Additionally, each recipient will receive a $500 credit at FedEx Office to use toward printing services.
- There will be a total of 200 grants awarded.
- Eligibility:
- Must be older than 18 years old
- Must be a U.S. based for-profit small business in operation and selling for more than 1 year
- Must have less than 50 employees
- Must have less than $5 million in annual sales revenue in 2019
- Must have shipped in the last 12 months and/or plan to ship in the coming 12 months as a part of your business
- Non-profits, franchised businesses, direct-seller/reseller businesses, independent consultants, and previous winners in the FedEx Small Business Grant contest are not eligible to apply for this grant
- Applications are being accepted from May 25, 2020, through June 12, 2020.
- To learn more and to apply for this grant, click here.
Federal Government Makes Changes to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
- The U.S. Small Business Administration will issue rules and guidance, a modified borrow application form, and a modified loan forgiveness application implementing new legislative amendments to the PPP.
- Following are some of the important changes that will be implemented:
- Extend the covered period for loan forgiveness from eight weeks after the date of loan disbursement to 24 weeks after the date of loan disbursement, providing substantially greater flexibility for borrowers to qualify for loan forgiveness. Borrowers who have already received PPP loans retain the option to use an eight-week covered period.
- Lower the requirements that 75 percent of a borrower’s loan proceeds must be used for payroll costs and that 75 percent of the loan forgiveness amount must have been spent on payroll costs during the 24-week loan forgiveness covered period to 60 percent for each of these requirements.
- Provide a safe harbor from reductions in loan forgiveness based on reductions in full-time equivalent employees for borrowers that are unable to return to the same level of business activity the business was operating at before February 15, 2020, due to compliance with requirements or guidance issued between March 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020 by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, related to worker or customer safety requirements related to COVID–19.
- Provide a safe harbor from reductions in loan forgiveness based on reductions in full-time equivalent employees, to provide protections for borrowers that are both unable to rehire individuals who were employees of the borrower on February 15, 2020, and unable to hire similarly qualified employees for unfilled positions by December 31, 2020.
- Increase to five years the maturity of PPP loans that are approved by SBA (based on the date SBA assigns a loan number) on or after June 5, 2020.
- To read the entire statement issued by the SBA, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Thursday, June 4, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 4, 2020 Daily Updates
L.B.P.D. Launches Online Portal Seeking Evidence from Recent Civil Unrest
- The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) launched an online portal seeking the public’s help to receive photo and video evidence of criminal activity that occurred during the May 31, 2020 demonstrations and subsequent recent incidents of civil unrest.
- The portal allows the public to easily submit photos and videos straight from their mobile device.
- Users must enter their phone number to submit their entry, a requirement to preserve the integrity of the evidence submitted.
- Users are not required to submit their name or date of birth, so entries may be made anonymously.
- LBPD is looking for evidence containing:
- Criminal activity, such as: looting, vandalism, arson, burglary, or assault
- Clear or partially-clear visuals of:
- Suspect descriptions
- Faces
- Identifiable clothing/accessories
- Vehicle license plates and/or vehicle descriptions
- Identifiable locations and approximate times of occurrence
- Once received, evidence will be reviewed and assigned to the appropriate investigative detail for further review. All attempts will be made to link the submitted evidence to current crime reports and investigations.
- For more information, read the City’s press release.
L.A. Represents: Small Business Protection & Representation
- L.A. Represents will build a new support system for small businesses devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, overseen by volunteers and advocates at Bet Tzedek Legal Services.
- This program provides small businesses least likely to have access to effective legal services free assistance as they:
- Confront new workplace regulations
- Renegotiate commercial leases
- Apply for government relief programs
- Navigate compliance with emergency health and safety orders
- Businesses may receive free representation if they meet an income eligibility threshold of no more than 500% Federal Poverty Guidelines (about $8,500 per month for a household of four) and no more than $50,000 in liquid assets.
- Small businesses who need an attorney to represent them in COVID-related matters can apply for free representation.
- Free webinars and FAQs on a variety of topics are available on Bet Tzedek’s website.
- For more information on the L.A. Represents Program, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 2, 2020 Daily Updates
City of Long Beach Orders Citywide Curfew Beginning at 6 p.m. Today
- Today, the City of Long Beach ordered a curfew effective citywide at 6.p.m this evening for the safety of the public.
- No persons shall travel or be upon the public streets, avenues, alleys, parks, or any other public pace in the City of Long Beach for the duration of this curfew, except as expressly authorized.
- For the purposes of this curfew regulation, “travel” shall include, but is not limited to, traveling on foot, bicycle, skateboard, scooter, motorcycle, or automobile or any other means of conveyance.
- All businesses, including those listed as ‘essential’ in the City’s Health Order, shall close by 6 p.m. today.
- The curfew will remain in effect until 6 a.m. June 3, 2020, unless extended if the situation warrants.
- Street closures that were in effect last night will remain in effect, which will allow officers to be deployed throughout the city in case any issues arise. Street closures include:
- Pine Avenue between Ocean Boulevard & 6th Street
- Atlantic Avenue between Wardlow Road & San Antonio Drive
- 2nd Street between Bayshore Avenue & Livingston Drive
- Marina Drive between 2nd Street & Studebaker Road
- For more information, read the City’s press release.
REMINDER: Paycheck Protection Program Forgiveness Information
- The Small Business Development Center is hosting a free workshop that will provide participants with a detailed understanding of how to apply for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness
- The workshop topics include:
- PPP purpose, overview, and terms
- Definitions of payroll costs
- Definitions of non-payroll costs
- Covered periods for funding expenses
- What to do if employees refuse to come back to work
- How to complete the forgiveness calculation
- Documentation for forgiveness
- Tax issues related to forgiveness
- And more
- The workshop is happening on Friday, June 5, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- To learn more and register for this workshop, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Monday, June 1, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
June 1, 2020 Daily Updates
Reporting Lost Property, Theft/Attempted Theft, or Vandalism
- The Long Beach Police Department’s (LBPD) Online Police Reporting System allows you to submit a police report online in the following categories:
- Lost property
- Theft or attempted theft
- Vandalism
- Hit and Run – parked vehicle
- If you have no suspect information or physical evidence, you may file a report online at www.longbeach.gov/police.
- If you have video footage, pictures or license plate numbers or other evidence you need to document, save, record and call (562) 435-6711 so that a patrol officer can be dispatched to take a report and collect the evidence.
- To submit a report online:
- The crime must have occurred in the City of Long Beach
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must have a valid e-mail address
Recommended Business Insurance Documentation Process
- If your business and/or property experienced lost property, theft/attempted theft, or vandalism, it is recommended that you follow the insurance documentation process below:
- Take photos of everything before doing any clean-up. In addition to the physical damage, this includes taking photos of shelves that have been knocked over, inventory on the floor, etc.
- To the best of your ability, take an inventory and make a compressive list of what was destroyed and/or what is missing.
- Call your insurance carrier (e.g., agent or broker) and explain the situation and follow their guidance as to next steps.
- Find out from your insurance policy (as explained by your agent or broker) what (if anything) is covered by Business Interruption Coverage and/or any other itemized disaster coverage listed in your insurance policy.
Temporary Fee Relief Extension for May Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Renewals
- The State ABC announced that certain ABC licensees paying annual renewal fees have been given a 30-day grace period.
- The announcement comes after Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order that will provide tax, regulatory, and licensing extensions for businesses.
- ABC’s announcement encompasses ABC licensees whose annual renewal payment is due by June 1st.
- For more information and to review the May Temporary Renewal Relief Payment Schedule, click here.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Saturday,, May 30, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 30, 2020 Daily Updates
City to Provide 1,000 Free Face Shields to Long Beach Restaurants
- Today, the City of Long Beach is announcing a free program to supply up to 1,000 face shields to Long Beach-based restaurants.
- The Health Order that went into effect last night, May 29, requires servers in restaurants to wear both cloth face coverings and face shields, in order to maximize protection for both the employee and patrons.
- In recognition that restaurants may not have easy immediate access to face shields this weekend, the City quickly developed this free program.
- Restaurant representatives can pick up face shields in the parking lot of Long Beach Fire Department Headquarters located at 3205 Lakewood Boulevard.
- Shields are limited to five per location, and will be available on a first come, first served basis.
- Representatives will need to provide their name and the restaurant name.
- Shields will be available for pickup today, Saturday, May 30, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and tomorrow, Sunday, May 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- For more information, read the City’s press release.
Long Beach Health Order Now Allows Hair Salons, Restaurants to Open
- The City of Long Beach issued a new health order that allows hair salons and barbers as well as restaurants for in-person dining to reopen provided these businesses follow guidelines designed to protect employees and patrons and control the spread of COVID-19.
- The new order, effective yesterday and until further notice, require that hair salons and barbers adhere to the following:
- Physical distancing measures will be in place.
- Everyone, including clients, must wear cloth face coverings while in the salon or barber shop and clients are encouraged to wear face coverings with ear loops to ensure the face covering does not interfere with the hair service.
- Magazines, coffee, and other amenities will not be available.
- Clients are encouraged to use credit cards and contactless payment systems. If electronic or card payment is not possible, customers should come with exact cash payment or check, if available.
- Stylists may only serve one client at a time.
- Gathering in waiting areas is prohibited.
- Other personal grooming businesses, such as nail salons and spa services, including massage, facials and waxing are still prohibited.
- Additionally, the Order allows restaurants to open at a reduced capacity for in-person dining with the following additional restrictions:
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- Physical distancing measures will be in place.
- Outdoor seating and curbside pickup are prioritized.
- Reservations will be encouraged.
- Customers will be asked to wait for their table in their cars or outside the restaurant to prevent crowds from gathering.
- Diners must wear cloth face coverings when not eating.
- Servers must wear both a face covering and a face shield.
- Bar areas will be closed.
- Indoor and outdoor in-person dining capacity will be limited to 60 percent.
- For more information, read the City’s press release
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Thursday, May 28, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 28, 2020 Daily Updates
City of Long Beach Safer at Home Order
- On May 27, 2020, the City of Long Beach revised the Safer at Home Health Order (Order) to allow in-person retail businesses, offices, and places of worship to open
- The revised Order details requirements and restrictions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19
- Establishments that are allowed to operate per the Order must implement and post a Physical Distancing Protocol prior to opening
- All in-store retail operations and offices must:
- Maintain physical distancing to the maximum extent possible
- Retail may only open up to 50 percent of allowed occupancy
- Office-based businesses are strongly encouraged to still prioritize telework
- Enact cleaning and disinfecting protocols, including frequent handwashing
- Require face coverings when in close contact with other people
- Maintain processes to identify cases of illness and intervene quickly
- Make worksite specific plans for operating during this public health emergency, and train employees on these plans
- Maintain physical distancing to the maximum extent possible
- For more information and guidance, business operators are encouraged to contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4249
- The Business Hotline operates Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Webinar: Adapting Retail in the Face of COVID-19
- The Downtown Long Beach Alliance is hosting a webinar on Friday, May 29 at 11:00 a.m. that will dive into the consequences of retail business closures, such as effects on consumer behavior, changes in marketing techniques, and the future resiliency of brick and mortar shops as the economy reopens
- Speakers will bring insights from a variety of retail-related disciplines, including retail brokers, industry though leaders, and experts in consumer behavior
- Speakers include:
- Michael J. Berne, MJB Consulting
- Andrea Guevara, Brand Strength
- Noel Aguirre, Lee & Associates
- To learn more and register, click here
COVID-19 Relief Proposals from Multiple City Departments
- On May 21, 2020, the City released a memo that summarizes financial relief proposals from multiple City departments
- The Development Services, Financial Management, Fire, and Public Works Departments have each assessed their services, fees, and approval processes to identify relevant relief for working families and small businesses
- The City Attorney has determined that implementation of these measures will require City Council adoption of a Resolution for most of the benefits, and a Zoning Code amendment for two of the benefits
- Following are a few examples of relief that may be approved by the City Council:
- Waive penalty fees for all late payments on all business license taxes, including commercial property licensees and residential property licensees from March 16, 2020 through August 31, 2020
- Penalties will be assessed on bills that are late as of September 1, 2020
- Extend the expiration period of existing entitlement approvals by 24 months, all approvals not expired on January 1, 2020, will now expire 24 months beyond their original expiration date
- Allow deferral of 50 percent of the Conditional Use Permit (CUP), or other entitlement application fees greater than $1,000, for projects submitted from June 2, 2020 through December 31, 2020
- 50 percent of the fee would be required to be paid at the time of application, and the remaining 50 percent of the fee would be required to be paid prior to the scheduled public hearing date, or prior to a final project determination
- This deferral is not applicable to environmental fees or noticing fees
- For all building plan checks submitted on or after June 2, 2020 through December 31, 2020, allow projects with a valuation of less than $100,000, to defer payment of building plan check fees until building permit issuance
- Waive penalty fees for all late payments on all business license taxes, including commercial property licensees and residential property licensees from March 16, 2020 through August 31, 2020
- To review the memo in its entirety, click here.
- To review the June 2, 2020 City Council item, click here.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 27, 2020 Daily Updates
Upcoming Changes to Long Beach Safer at Home Order
- Earlier today, Mayor Garcia announced that the City of Long Beach will start allowing non-essential retail businesses to open for in-store shopping. Offices will also be allowed to open, though telecommuting is still encouraged.
- The City is in the process of amending the local Safer at Home Order, which will clearly describe these changes, along with the protocols that businesses will need to follow.
- It is recommended that you continue to monitor the City's main COVID-19 website for these updates.
- In the meantime, please continue to share information that the City has already made available to help businesses prepare, such as Physical Distancing Protocols, Retail Physical Distancing Protocols, and Print-Yourself Posters.
- The aforementioned documents, including translated versions of the Protocols, may be found here.
- The Mayor also announced that the City made a formal request to the State of California to allow additional businesses to open, such as seated dining restaurants, barber shops, and beauty salons. While these business activities are not currently allowed, it is recommended that business owners/operators start preparing by reviewing the State's Industry Guidance, which can be found here.
- To review the City’s press release that summarizes this information, click here.
SBDC Webinar: How to Do Instagram Live for Sales
- The Small Business Development Center will be hosting a webinar that will help businesses utilize Instagram to position their business and brand for an increase in sales.
- Participants will learn:
- How to start an Instagram Live
- How to write a script for Instagram Live
- How to increase engagement of the audience on Instagram Live
- How to re-purpose Instagram Live in other places by promoting replay
- How Instagram Live leads to sales through relationship building
- The webinar is happening on Wednesday, June 3 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- To learn more and register, click on the following link: IG Live Webinar.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Tuesday, May 26, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 26, 2020 Daily Updates
Update: City of Long Beach Safer at Home Order Amended
- On Friday, May 22, the City updated the Safer at Home Order (Order).
- Per the latest Order, the following “lower-risk” businesses are allowed with limited operations:
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- Antique stores
- Beauty supply
- Bookstores
- Clothing and shoe stores
- Florists
- Hobby Stores
- Home and furnishing stores
- Jewelry stores
- Music stores
- Retail ONLY for hair salons, barbers, art galleries, museums, spas, wellness centers
- Sporting goods stores
- Tobacco retailers
- Toy stores
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- All retail that provide goods and services not considered “essential” must operate curbside pickup or delivery only
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- Car dealerships
- Car washes, including full service
- Residential cleaning services
- Pet services (e.g., pet grooming, dog walking, training)
-
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- Can operate storefronts
- No longer required to do curbside pickup/drop off
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- Equipment rentals such as kayaks, standup paddleboards, kitesurfing, electric boats, bikes
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- Must be staffed and able to sanitize equipment between uses
- Shared equipment limited to individuals or members of the same household only
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- Small charters, including gondola rides
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-
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- Only 2 employees allowed - employee to operate the water vessel and one other employee
- Limited to charters to individuals or members of the same household only
- Gatherings and charters that allow more than one household at a time are prohibited
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-
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- Staff of organizations or associations, including faith-based organizations, may prepare and facilitate live-stream services with their members, including worship services, if staff gathering is limited to 10 people or fewer
- In-person counseling services, including faith-based counseling, where the service cannot reasonably be practiced remotely and the counselling is limited to members of a single household
- In-person behavioral health or substance use disorder support in therapeutic small group meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous
- Outdoor museums
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- Outdoor spaces only for outdoor recreational activities (e.g. walking).
- Indoor portions of the museum must be closed to the public
- Stationary activities and exhibits that involve touching or contact are prohibited
- No gatherings
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o Private and public golf courses
o Tennis centers and tennis courts
o All Lower-Risk Businesses are required to implement and post a Physical Distance Protocol prior to operating.
- To review the entire Order, please click on the following link: Safer at Home Order.
Thursday, May 21, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 21, 2020 Daily Updates
SBDC Webinar: Growing Your Business Online
- The Small Business Development Center is hosting a webinar that will teach businesses digital marketing strategies to grow their online brand
- Topics of discussion include:
- The fastest ways to grow your online brand
- How to continually reach new market segments
- Creating a competitive advantage through social media
- Creative ways to leverage social media platforms to build online influence
- The webinar is happening on Friday, May 22 at 10:00 a.m.
- To learn more and register, click on the following link: Grow Your Business Online
REMINDER: Kiva Long Beach Loan Program
- The City’s Kiva Loan Program is a creative online crowd-lending program that is designed to support Long Beach small businesses
- Loans up to $15,000 are available at a zero percent interest rate
- Approved borrowers may access a grace period of up to 6-months
- Loan proceeds may go toward business expenses, such as personnel, rent, supplies/materials, utilities, professional services, and more
- All loan applications are reviewed by Kiva, a nonprofit organization
- Approved loans on Kiva’s online crowd-lending platform have 30 days to successfully raise the entire loan
- 25 Long Beach businesses have benefited from this program
- To get started, potential borrowers should contact BusinessDevelopment@longbeach.gov or 562-570-4249
State of California Industry Guidance
- The State of California is making available guidance for businesses to follow, if they’re permitted to open per county and city health rules
- Industry guidance to reduce risk has been made available online for the following industries:
- Agriculture and livestock
- Auto dealerships
- Child care
- Communications infrastructure
- Construction
- Delivery services
- Energy and utilities
- Food packing
- Hotels and lodging
- Life sciences
- Limited services
- Logistics and warehousing facilities
- Manufacturing
- Mining and logging
- Outdoor museums
- Office workspaces
- Ports
- Public transit and intercity passenger rail
- Real estate transaction
- Retail
- To learn more and access industry guidance to reduce risk, click on the following link: Statewide Industry Guidance.
If a business needs immediate assistance, please have them contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
Wednesday, May 20, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 20, 2020 Daily Updates
REMINDER: Great Plates Delivered Program – City Releases Request for Proposals (RFP Closes Tomorrow)
- The Great Plates Delivered Program will provide up to three free nutritious meals delivered daily to qualified adults over 65 years of age in partnership with local food providers and restaurants.
- Restaurants and food providers interested in participating in the program are encouraged to submit an RFP by Thursday, May 21 at 11:00 a.m.
- Participation preference will be given to businesses that are locally owned, prioritize local jobs and worker retention, and provide meals that can be frozen and reheated, as well as meet nutritional standards in accordance with State guidelines.
- The City will select multiple local food providers for participation in the program, in accordance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) procurement criteria.
- To submit an RFP, interested business owners should visit the City’s Financial Management Purchasing Division webpage and register as a vendor with the City.
- For an overview on how to register as a vendor, please watch the following video: Register as a Vendor.
- For questions related to the RFP, contact rfppurchasing@longbeach.gov.
- More information on how residents can apply to receive meals will be forthcoming.
REMINDER: LISC Small Business Relief Grant (Application Closes Today)
- The Small Business Relief Grants, which are part of LISC’s Rapid Relief & Recovery Fund programs to help businesses with immediate financial support, is now open for applications.
- Grants will be made in the amounts of $5,000, $7,500, and $10,000.
- Applications must be completed by today, May 20th, 8:59 p.m. (PT).
- Before completing the application, we recommend you review the Grant Information Overview and FAQ, which can be found here.
- Priority will be given especially to entrepreneurs of color, women-and veteran-owned businesses, and other enterprises in historically under-served places who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital.
- To apply, click on the following link: Grant Application.
Small Business Majority’s 30-Minute California Policy Brief
- On Friday, May 22 at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) Small Business Majority and CAMEO will provide updates on funding options and new policies that could impact businesses.
- Topics of discussion include:
- Federal Policy updates
- State Policy updates
- Latest updates on Governor Newsome’s phased reopening plan
- Questions & Answers
- To register for this free webinar, click on the following link: Policy Brief.
Monday, May 18, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 18, 2020 Daily Updates
Great Plates Delivered Program – City Releases Request for Proposals (RFP)
- The Great Plates Delivered Program will provide up to three free nutritious meals delivered daily to qualified adults over 65 years of age in partnership with local food providers and restaurants.
- Restaurants and food providers interested in participating in the program are encouraged to submit an RFP.
- Participation preference will be given to businesses that are locally owned, prioritize local jobs and worker retention, and provide meals that can be frozen and reheated, as well as meet nutritional standards in accordance with State guidelines.
- The City will select multiple local food providers for participation in the program, in accordance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) procurement criteria.
- To submit an RFP, interested business owners should visit the City’s Financial Management Purchasing Division webpage and register as a vendor with the City.
- For an overview on how to register as a vendor, please watch the following video: Register as a Vendor.
- For questions related to the RFP, contact rfppurchasing@longbeach.gov.
- More information on how residents can apply to receive meals will be forthcoming.
Reminder: LISC Small Business Relief Grant
- The Small Business Relief Grants, which are part of LISC’s Rapid Relief & Recovery Fund programs to help businesses with immediate financial support, is now open for applications.
- Grants will be made in the amounts of $5,000, $7,500, and $10,000.
- Applications must be completed by Wednesday, May 20th, 8:59 p.m. (PT).
- Before completing the application, we recommend you review the Grant Information Overview and FAQ, which can be found here.
- Priority will be given especially to entrepreneurs of color, women-and veteran-owned businesses, and other enterprises in historically under-served places who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital.
- To apply, click on the following link: Grant Application.
COVID-19 Webinar Roundtable & Resource Update
- As part of their continued role as a clearinghouse for information, the DLBA is proud to announce a webinar roundtable series covering the far-reaching impacts from COVID-19 and how to address them.
- Topics will range from small business adaptation to changing consumer behavior, featuring insights from a diverse selection of industry professionals, academic researchers, and local policymakers.
- As part of the webinar series, the DLBA will also host a weekly information update from local partners at the City of Long Beach, Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network, and the Small Business Development Center.
- These sessions are a valuable opportunity for business owners to ask any questions relating to resources for recovery and adaptation.
- This webinar series is open to all—not just Downtown businesses.
- For more information and to register, click here.
Wednesday, May 13, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 13, 2020 Daily Updates
Update: L.A. County 4th Supervisorial District COVID-19 Business Relief Grant Application is LIVE
- Grants up to $5,000 are available to businesses with 5 or fewer employees located in L.A. County 4th Supervisorial District
- Grants may be used for:
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- Employee payroll
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- Working capital continue operations
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- Payment of outstanding business expenses
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- Adaptive business practices needed to remain open
- The grant application opened today, May 13 at noon and closes tomorrow, May 14 at noon
- The grant website has a comprehensive “eligibility checklist”
- For more information and to apply, visit Business Relief Grant
SBDC Webinar: Productive Ways Tenants and Landlords Can Work Together
- This webinar provides a great learning opportunity for brick and mortar businesses, landlords, and property management companies of commercial properties
- The webinar will teach tenants and landlords how to ask for, outline and negotiate a deal that will keep businesses in place and able to recover
- Topics of discussion include, but are not limited to leases, rent relief, deferment, and abatement from both sides of the table
- To learn more and register, click on the following link: SBDC webinar
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 12, 2020 Daily Updates
Update: L.A. County 4th Supervisorial District COVID-19 Business Relief Grant
- More information was released regarding grants the Office of L.A. County Supervisor Janice Han is making available to businesses with five or fewer employees
- Business eligibility checklist:
- Business must be located in the 4th Supervisorial District
- Business must has five or fewer employees (including the owner)
- Business must be able to show that it was impacted by COVID-19 through a hardship statement and can identify reasons for the businesses closure and a reduction in revenue
- Business must be able to provide a business license confirming the business address is located in the 4th Supervisorial District
- Business must have an “active” business status with the CA Secretary of State
- Businesses must show stable income in the past two years and profitable business operations in the most recent fiscal year
- All business owners with a 20 percent or greater ownership interest must submit a copy of a government issued identification
- Grant proceeds can be used for:
- Employee payroll
- Employee sick time payroll
- Working capital to continue operations
- Payment of outstanding business expenses
- Adaptive business practices needed to remain open
- Applications will be accepted starting at noon on May 13, 2020, and ending at noon on May 14, 2020
- The application list will be created via lottery. Applicants will be selected in the order ranted per the lottery process.
- To learn more about this grant opportunity, including businesses not eligible for a grant, please visit: Business Relief Grant.
Women in Business Series: Main Street Goes Global
- The California International Trade Center (CITC) is hosting the first in a new series of webinars and discussions to give access and insights to women-led businesses and help grow sales online and overseas
- The first webinar is happening on Tuesday, May 26 from 9-10 a.m.
- This webinar will have three areas of discussion with information for business expansion through cross-border eCommerce:
- Introduction of available government resources
- Insights into the tools and resources of eCommerce platform providers, such as eBay, Shopify, and more
- Discussion and Q&A with women-led businesses leading in the online space
- For more information and to register, click on the following link: CITC webinar
- CITC has a number of recorded webinars that are available to all businesses. Topics range from fulfillment and shipping to eCommerce and more!
Monday, May 11, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 11, 2020 Daily Updates
L.A. County 4th Supervisorial District COVID-19 Business Relief Grant
- The Office of L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn will be making grants up to $5,000 available to businesses with five or fewer employees.
- Businesses must be located in the 4th Supervisorial District of L.A. County, which includes Long Beach.
- The online application opens on Wednesday, May 13 at noon and will close Thursday, May 14 at noon.
- To learn more, click on the following link: http://grants.lacda.org/
City of Long Beach Posters for Businesses
- The City of Long Beach has created a variety of posters that business owners can print and post at their businesses.
- Following are links to a few helpful posters:
- For customers
- Maintain Physical Distancing poster
- Please Wear a Face Covering poster
- Do Not Enter This Facility if You Are Experiencing Symptoms poster
- Restroom Plumbing poster
- Farmers Market Safety Tips poster
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- For staff
- Health Guidance for Restaurants poster
- Food Safety Guidelines poster
- Health Guidance for Facilities poster
- Grocery and Convenience Store Guidelines poster
- Food Trucks and Food Carts Guidelines poster
- School Districts and Charitable Food Operations Guidelines poster
- Farmers Market Vendor Guidelines poster
- Essential Business Owner Guidelines poster
- Essential Business Office Guidelines poster
- Essential Business Employee Guidelines poster
SBDC Webinar: How to Sell on Instagram
- This webinar will teach business owners the basics of how to develop their brand on Instagram, and how to use it as a platform to sell their products or services
- Participants will learn:
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- What the Instagram platform is and how it is different from other platforms
- How to set up their profile to be found by their target audience
- How to schedule their content for the entire week
- How to organically get followers
- How to turn "likes" into sales
- How to create compelling content
- This webinar is happening on Wednesday, May 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
- For more information and to register for this webinar, please click on the following link: SBDC webinar.
Friday, May 8, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 08, 2020 Daily Updates
Retail Businesses Permitted to Reopen, with Safety Restrictions, May 8
- Effective today, the City of Long Beach will allow retail businesses, with modified operations and proper sanitizing and physical distancing protocols in place, to reopen for curbside pickup and delivery services only.
- In addition, car dealership showrooms may open, pending adherence to the City’s recommendations and safety protocols.
- Non-essential retail businesses authorized to reopen include but are not limited to the following:
- Bookstores
- Jewelry stores
- Toy stores
- Clothing stores
- Shoe stores
- Home and furnishing stores
- Sporting goods stores
- Antique stores
- Music stores
- Florists
- Non-essential retailers must implement a Retail Physical Distancing Protocol prior to reopening.
- Car dealerships must implement a Physical Distancing Protocol prior to opening.
- Business owners or workers may call (562) 570-4BIZ (4249) for more information.
LISC Keeping our Shops on the Block: Resources for Long Beach Small Businesses
- LISC is co-hosting a webinar next Monday, May 11 at 11:00 a.m. with the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department.
- This webinar will provide information on emergency financial resources, in-language support, and creative strategies to keep doors open during the pandemic.
- At the end of the webinar, LISC will award five (5) of the webinar attendees with a $2,500 grant.
- Winners will be chosen at random and will need to be a verified neighborhood small business.
- All businesses need to do to enter is register for and attend the webinar (via phone or computer) at this link.
Reopening Your Business: Things You May Not Have Considered
- Small Business Majority and Retail Smart Guys are hosting a free, interactive webinar to assist in planning the reopening of your business.
- This webinar will guide you through the new factors you’ll need to consider to ensure your business can operate safely and profitably.
- Topics include:
- Marketing your business to alleviate customers’ concerns
- Re-designing sales floor layout to accommodate physical distancing
- Bringing back staff, hiring new staff and keeping them safe
- Alternative business opportunities and tactics
- Critical merchandising and vendor strategies to ensure profitability and great selling
- To learn more and register, click on the following link: SMB Webinar.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 06, 2020 Daily Updates
Upcoming Changes to the City’s Safer at Home Order
- Earlier today, Mayor Robert Garcia announced some changes that will be made to the City’s Safer at Home Order.
- Starting this Friday, May 8th some “lower-risk” businesses will be allowed to open and serve customers via curbside pickup only.
- These retail businesses include:
- Florists
- Toy stores
- Book stores
- Clothing stores
- Music stores
- Sporting good stores
- The following outdoor activities will also have an opportunity to open this Friday:
- Nature trails
- Golf courses
- These retail businesses include:
- Starting May 11th the following spaces will gradually open:
- Parks (walks through parks, but no gathering)
- Parking lots adjacent to parks
- Tennis centers
- Beach bike and walking path (no gathering or swimming will be allowed at the beach)
- Over the next few days, the City will amend the Safer at Home Order. This order will list the types of businesses and activities that may resume.
- The Order will also provide guidance with regard to protocols that need to be followed.
- We will continue to provide more information as soon as it becomes available.
LISC Keeping our Shops on the Block: Resources for Long Beach Small Businesses
- LISC is co-hosting a webinar next Monday, May 11 at 11:00 a.m. with the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department.
- This webinar will provide information on a variety of resources and tools that are available to businesses.
- The webinar will include a raffle. Five (5) Long Beach small businesses that participate in the webinar will receive the opportunity to win a $2,500 grant.
- All businesses need to do to enter is register for and attend the webinar (via phone or computer) at this link.
Update: Great Plates Delivered
- This program will ensure vulnerable older Californians have consistent access to nutritious meals while staying safe at home.
- The program will enlist community restaurants to prepare meals that will be delivered to older Californians who are isolating at home.
- The program will also support local restaurant workers and owners who have lost business during the pandemic.
- The program will be administered by local authorities and will serve older Californians who are ineligible for other nutrition programs.
- Restaurants that are interested in participating in this program are encouraged to submit their interest to participate in the program by filling out a “Food Provider Interest Form.” To access this form, click on the following link: Great Plates Delivered.
Tuesday, May 5, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 05, 2020 Daily Updates
Restart Long Beach Update
- On April 21, 2020 the City of Long Beach announced the formation of “Restart Long Beach,” an economic recovery advisory group charged with providing recommendations on steps the City may take to safely begin to reopen the local economy.
- Restart Long Beach has provided to the City their initial recommendations for consideration.
- These recommendations are summarized in a memorandum that was provided to the Mayor and City Council today.
- To review these recommendations, please click on the following url: Restart Long Beach Update.
ReopenLB Survey Update
- On April 28, 2020, the City of Long Beach announced the launch of the “ReopenLB” online survey to seek input from residents, workers, and business owners about how to safely reopen the local economy.
- The ReopenLB online survey asked respondents to provide information about what would make them feel safe to return to work or to reopen businesses, and what should be considered “low-risk” activities to prioritize for reopening, after public health officials have considered it safe to do so.
- The survey was open for seven days between April 28th and May 4th and received a strong response from the community.
- A summary of the survey results was provided to the Mayor and City Council today.
- To review this summary, please click on the following url: ReopenLB Survey Update.
Update on California’s Pandemic Roadmap
- Yesterday, the State of California provided an update on California’s Reopening Roadmap.
- Their “State Reopening Roadmap Report Card” shows that the State is making good progress on the following metrics that will inform decision-making with regard to changes to the State’s Stay-At-Home Order:
- Stability of hospitalizations
- Personal protective equipment inventory
- Healthcare surge capacity
- Testing capacity
- Contact tracing capacity
- Public health guidance
- In their presentation, the State indicated that it may start making changes to the Stay-At-Home Order starting this Friday, May 8.
- Potential changes to the Order could provide the opportunity for some lower-risk businesses to gradually open.
- Some examples of businesses that may have the opportunity to open include:
- Retail with curbside pickup and associated manufacturing and supply chains
- Examples of retail: bookstores, clothing stores, florists, and sporting goods
- Some examples of businesses that would not be allowed to open at this time include:
- Offices that have the ability to allow workers to telecommute
- Seated dining at restaurants
- Shopping malls
- The State of California will provide additional guidance soon.
- To review the State’s presentation, click on the following url: Update on CA’s Pandemic Roadmap.
- Over the next coupe of days, Long Beach will be releasing more information on our local process.
Friday, May 1, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
May 01, 2020 Daily Updates
REMINDER: City of Long Beach Partner Processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Applications
- The National Development Council (NDC) is now officially a PPP lender.
- The City of Long Beach has a longstanding partnership with NDC. This partnership enables Long Beach small businesses to submit PPP applications through NDC’s application portal.
- Funds are limited and we encourage Long Beach small businesses that may benefit from this program to apply as soon as possible.
- Following is a link to the NDC’s PPP application portal: https://ndconline.org/ppp/
UpliftLB: Giving Tuesday Virtual Art Experience
- UpliftLB is a coordinated effort between the Long Beach Post/Long Beach Business Journal, Arts Council for Long Beach, and the Nonprofit Partnership to create a fundraiser for local artists and businesses affected by COVID-19.
- UpliftLB is a 2-hour livestreamed event on the Post’s Facebook and Twitter on Tuesday, May 5th starting at 5:00pm.
- Small businesses may apply to receive a portion of the funds collected during the fundraiser.
- To apply, click on the following url: UpliftLB.
- The deadline to apply is Monday, May 4th
Red Backpack Fund
- Spanx and The Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation is making $5,000 grants available to small businesses.
- This grant is available to women-owned businesses.
- Round 2 applications open on May 4, 2020.
- To learn more and apply, click on the following url: https://www.globalgiving.org/redbackpackfund/
Thursday, April 30, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 230, 2020 Daily Updates
ReopenLB Survey
- The City of Long Beach launched an online survey to seek input from residents, workers, and business owners about how to safely reopen the local economy.
- Survey questions ask respondents if they feel safe to return to work or to reopen their businesses, and about what they consider to be low-risk activities.
- The results will be collected and shared with the City Council.
- Any decisions regarding reopening spaces will be in alignment with Governor Newsom’s Stay at Home order the Long Beach Health Officer’s order.
- Community feedback will be considered as a part of the strategy for safely reopening low-risk businesses and leisure activities.
- People may begin providing their input immediately by visiting: www.longbeach.gov/ReopenLB
- Survey responses will be collected until 5p.m. on Monday, May 4.
Governor Newsom’s Update on California’s Pandemic Roadmap
- Earlier this week Governor Newsome provided an update on the “roadmap stages” the State will be looking at to determine when and how to relax the State Stay at Home order.
- As a reminder, the six indicators the State is monitoring for modifying the Stay at Home Order include:
-
- Ability to test, contact trace, isolate, and support the exposed.
- Ability to protect those at high risk for COVID-19.
- Surge capacity for hospital and health systems.
- Therapeutic development to meet demand.
- Ability of businesses, schools, and childcare facilities to support physical distancing.
- Determination of when to reinstitute measures like Stay at Home.
- The “roadmap stages” include:
-
- Stage 1: Safety and Preparedness
- Stage 2: Lower Risk Workplaces
- Stage 3: Higher Risk Workplaces
- Stage 4: End of Stay at Home Order
- Click the following url to access Governor Newsom’s presentation: Update on California’s Pandemic Roadmap.
City of Long Beach Economic Development & Finance Committee Meeting
- Today, April 30, 2020, the City Council’s Economic Development & Finance Committee will be hosting meeting that will be focused on the conversation of reopening the Long Beach economy.
- The meeting agenda includes:
- A report from City staff on the status of the Economic Relief Package approved by City Council on April, 14, 2020
- A report from Former Mayor Bob Foster on the activities of the Economic Recovery Advisory Group.
- A report from the Long Beach Convention and Visitor’s Bureau on the status of the local hospitality industry impacted by COVID-19.
- A report from the Long Beach Nonprofit Partnership on the status of the nonprofit sector impacted by COVID-19.
- A report from local business owners on the status of the restaurant sector impacted by COVID-19.
- The meeting starts at 4:00p.m. and the public may access the meeting by clicking on the following url: ED&F Meeting.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 28, 2020 Daily Updates
REMINDER: Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
- As a part of the Federal CARES Act, the new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program helps unemployed Californians who are business owners, self-employed, independent contractors, have limited work history, and others not usually eligible for regular State Unemployment Insurance benefits. The provisions of the program include:
- Up to 30 weeks of benefits starting with weeks of unemployment beginning February 2, 2020, through the week ending December 26, 2020, depending on when a person became directly impacted by the pandemic.
- An additional $600 to each PUA weekly benefit amount a person may be eligible to receive.
- Only the weeks of a claim between March 20 and July 25 are eligible for the $600 payments.
- The State Employment Development Department (EDD) started processing PUA applications today.
- We did hear that the EDD application portal was overwhelmed today and crashed.
- For more information, click on the following url: EDD PUA.
Horst Rechelbacher Beauty Industry Relief Grant
- This grant offers a $1,000 grant to beauty professionals.
- Eligibility:
- Be a licensed beauty professional (COSMETOLOGY, ESTHETICS, BARBERING, or MASSAGE THERAPY) and have been employed for 12 months on or before March 16, 2020 OR must have been attending a program to become a licensed beauty professional on or before March 16, 2020.
- Must currently not be earning an income.
- Must not be a nail tech.
- Must not be a business owner.
- The grant application is due by May 4.
- To learn more and apply, please click on the following url: Beauty Industry Grant.
CND x BCL Nail Professional Relief Grant
- This grant offers a $1,000 grant to nail professionals.
- Eligibility:
- Be a licensed nail professional and have been employed for 12 months on or before March 16, 2020.
- Reside in the United States and must currently not be earning an income
- The grant application is due by June 30, 2020 (applications accepted on a rolling basis)
- To learn more and apply, please click on the following url: Nail Professional Grant.
Monday, April 27, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 27, 2020 Daily Updates
REMINDER: City of Long Beach Partner Processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Applications
- The National Development Council (NDC) is now officially a PPP lender.
- The City of Long Beach has a longstanding partnership with NDC. This partnership enables Long Beach small businesses to submit PPP applications through NDC’s application portal.
- Funds are limited and we encourage Long Beach small businesses that may benefit from this program to apply as soon as possible.
- Following is a link to the NDC’s PPP application portal: https://ndconline.org/ppp/
Salesforce Small Business Grants
- Salesforce is accepting applications for their Salesforce Care Small Business Grants.
- The application deadline is May 4, 2020 at 11:59PM (PDT)
- To be eligible to apply, businesses must:
- Be a for-profit business
- Have between 2 – 50 employees
- Have been in business for 2 years as of March 2020
- Have an annual revenue between $250,000 to $2 million
- Have experienced challenges from COVID-19
- Meet all other eligibility requirements as stated in the Grant Program Terms
- For more information and to apply, click on the following url: Salesforce Grant
REMINDER: LISC Small Business Relief Grant
- LISC is offering grants of up to $10,000 each to small business owners to help meet their most immediate needs.
- Eligible expenses include:
-
- Paying rent and utilities
- Meeting payroll
- Paying outstanding debt to vendors
- Upgrading technology infrastructure
- Other immediate operational costs
- Grants will be made in the amounts of $5,000, $7,500, and $10,000
- Before completing the application, please read the Grant Overview and FAQ.
- Questions can be sent to SmallBusinessGrant@lisc.org.
- The application deadline is Tuesday, April 28 at 8:59pm (PST)
- To start your application, click on the following url: https://www.research.net/r/LISCreliefgrant
Governor Newsom Announces “Restaurants Deliver: Home Meals for Seniors” Program
- This program will ensure vulnerable older Californians have consistent access to nutritious meals while staying safe at home.
- The program will enlist community restaurants to prepare meals that will be delivered to older Californians who are isolating at home.
- The program will also support local restaurant workers and owners who have lost business during the pandemic.
- The program will be administered by local authorities and will serve older Californians who are ineligible for other nutrition programs.
- We are tracking the development of this program and will make sure to provide more information with regard to how Long Beach restaurants may benefit from this opportunity.
Friday, April 24, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 24, 2020 Daily Updates
More Funding Approved for Federal Small Business Loan Programs
- Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill, allocating more funding to the Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan.
- Today, President Trump signed this bill.
- The bill provides an immediate $310 billion infusion for the Paycheck Protection Program.
- An additional $50 billion was allocated for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program.
- An additional $10 billion was allocated for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance Grant.
- The Emergency Advance provides up to $10,000. Applicants may be eligible to receive up to $1,000 per full-time employee. For example, if a small business owner has five full-time employees, they may be eligible for an advance of $5,000.
City of Long Beach Partner Processing Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Applications
- The National Development Council (NDC) is now officially a PPP lender.
- The City of Long Beach has a longstanding partnership with NDC. This partnership enables Long Beach small businesses to submit PPP applications through NDC’s application portal.
- Funds are limited and we encourage Long Beach small businesses that may benefit from this program to apply as soon as possible.
- Following is a link to the NDC’s PPP application portal: https://ndconline.org/ppp/
Webinar: Paycheck Protection Program & Economic Injury Disaster Loan Updates with the Small Business Administration
- Small Business Majority is hosting a webinar with the U.S. Small Business Administration
- Topics include:
- The difference between Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Paycheck Protection Program loans and how to apply
- An overview of alternative lending options including the Small Business Administration’s loan guarantee program, Community Development Financial Institutions, reputable online lenders, and crowdfunding
- How to avoid predatory lenders
- Questions & Answers
- For more information and to register, click on the following url: Webinar.
Small Business Development Center Webinars
- The Small Business Development is coordinating a series of webinars to support small businesses during times of business disruption.
- On Monday, April 27 they will be hosting a webinar titled “Leases and Landlords: Exploring Options for Commercial Renters and Owners.”
- To learn more and register, click on the following url: Webinar.
Thursday, April 23, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 23, 2020 Daily Updates
Facebook Small Business Grants Program
- Los Angeles-area small businesses are now able to apply for Facebook’s Small Business Grant Program.
- This initiative is part of Facebook’s pledge to offer $100 million in small business grants worldwide.
- To be eligible to apply, a business must:
- Be a for-profit company
- Have between 2 and 50 employees
- Have been in business for over a year
- Have experienced challenges from COVID-19
- Facebook is working with Ureeka, a third-party partner to select and distribute grants.
- Ureeka’s application will ask you to share your contact information, a brief summary about your business and how you would use the cash grant.
- To complete the application, you’ll also need at least one of the following documents:
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Partnership documents
- Business license
- Proof of incorporation
- Official registration
- For more information and to apply, click on the following url: Facebook Grants.
LISC Small Business Relief Grant
- LISC is offering grants of up to $10,000 each to small business owners to help meet their most immediate needs.
- Eligible expenses include:
- Paying rent and utilities
- Meeting payroll
- Paying outstanding debt to vendors
- Upgrading technology infrastructure
- Other immediate operational costs
- Grants will be made in the amounts of $5,000, $7,500, and $10,000
- Before completing the application, please read the Grant Overview and FAQ.
- Questions can be sent to SmallBusinessGrant@lisc.org.
- The application deadline is Tuesday, April 28 at 8:59pm (PST)
- To start your application, click on the following url: https://www.research.net/r/LISCreliefgrant
Wednesday, April 22, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 22, 2020 Daily Updates
U.S. Senate Passes Additional Aid for Small Businesses
- The U.S. Senate passed a $484 billion bill that will provide additional funding into the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).
- The bill will head to the House of Representatives where it is expected to pass later this week.
- If approved, an additional $310 billion in funding will be provided for PPP.
- If approved, an additional $10 billion in funding will be provided for EIDL.
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance
- As a part of the Federal CARES Act, the new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program helps unemployed Californians who are business owners, self-employed, independent contractors, have limited work history, and others not usually eligible for regular State Unemployment Insurance benefits. The provisions of the program include:
- Up to 30 weeks of benefits starting with weeks of unemployment beginning February 2, 2020, through the week ending December 26, 2020, depending on when a person became directly impacted by the pandemic.
- An additional $600 to each PUA weekly benefit amount a person may be eligible to receive.
- Only the weeks of a claim between March 20 and July 25 are eligible for the $600 payments.
- The State Employment Development Department will also stand up a one-stop shop for individuals applying for unemployment insurance and the new federal PUA program starting Tuesday, April 28th.
- PUA benefits will be issued within 28-48 hours—not the traditional 21 days for regular Unemployment Insurance claims.
- For more information, click on the following url: EDD PUA.
City Council Extends Temporary Relief for Street Sweeping Citations to May 18
- Yesterday the Long Beach City Council extended the temporary suspension of street sweeping citations, which had been scheduled to resume on May 4th.
- Instead, City staff will begin issuing notices on vehicles starting on May 4th and enforcement will begin on May 18th.
- All other parking enforcement, including for metered parking and red, white, and blue curbs, will continue as usual.
- For more information, please click on the following url: Press Release.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 21, 2020 Daily Updates
Long Beach Economic Recovery Advisory Group
- Over the weekend, Mayor Garcia announced the formation of the new Economic Recovery Advisory Group that will begin to prepare recommendations for safely and responsibly reopening the local economy.
- This Advisory Group will be led by former Mayor Bob Foster and will include several local business leaders representing different sectors of the economy and community.
- We encourage you all to review the Press Telegram article and look for opportunities on how you can contribute pertaining to your area of business and expertise.
- The City is working on an online platform to collect input. More information to come soon.
Small Business Majority Webinar: Legal Essentials for Doing Business Online
- This webinar will cover the essential legal protections for small business owners doing business online.
- Topics of discussion include:
- Update on federal and state programs for small business owners in California.
- Your business website, Terms & Conditions and privacy policies.
- How to avoid copyright infringement issues when adding textual and photographic content to your business website.
- Social media’s intersection with business and law.
- To learn more and register, click on the following url: Doing Business Online Webinar.
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Save Small Business Fund Update
- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation yesterday opened a fund to provide $5,000 grants to small employers in select zip codes.
- Over 15,000 applications were received within minutes of the application going live.
- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation is no longer able to accept applications.
- Those who did submit an application will be notified if it results in a grant.
Monday, April 20, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 20, 2020 Daily Updates
- The Save Small Business Fund, which is administered by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, is a grantmaking initiative offering short-term relief for small employers in the U.S. and its territories.
- Funded by corporate philanthropic organizations, the Fund is a collective effort to provide $5,000 grants to as many small employers as possible.
- To qualify, a business must:
- Employ between 3 and 20 people
- Be located in an economically vulnerable community
- The Save Small Business Fund website has a tool that allows a business owner to see if they qualify.
- Business owners will be required to enter the zip code associated with their business (as listed on W9 form).
- Have been harmed financially by the COVID-19 pandemic
- A short application will go live on April 20, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. (PT).
- The application will take about 10 minutes to complete.
- All a business owner needs is their W-9 form.
- Grants will be awarded on a weekly basis, but you only need to apply one time to be eligible for funding.
- For more information, click on the following url: https://www.savesmallbusiness.com/.
Small Business Majority Webinar: Understanding Commercial Lease Agreements
- Small Business Majority is hosting a webinar today, Monday, April 20 at noon that will discuss commercial leases and the rights of a commercial tenant in California.
- The webinar will focus on office and retail leases.
- Topics include:
- Eviction moratoriums
- COVID-19 related clauses in commercial leases
- Tips for negotiating with your landlord
- Business interruption insurance
- Venturize, a safe portal to access responsible lenders.
- For more information and to register, click on the following url: SBM Webinar.
- Small Business Majority typically records their webinars and makes the recorded version available to anyone that registers for a webinar.
New COVID-19 Data Dashboard
- The City has recently launched a new COVID-19 Data Dashboard to give the public real-time information about the COVID-19 crisis.
- The Dashboard provides the public with information regarding positive cases, hospitalizations, demographic breakdowns, and more.
- To visit the Dashboard, click on the following url: Data Dashboard.
Friday, April 17, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 17, 2020 Daily Updates
Reminder: COVID-19 Business Survey
- The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department is partnering with the Council of Business Associations, Downtown Long Beach Alliance and the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce to administer the COVID-19 Business Impact Survey.
- The COVID-19 Business Impact Survey is intended to evaluate the impacts to Long Beach businesses caused by COVID-19 and determine what resources may be necessary to aid in the resiliency and recovery of all businesses citywide. All Long Beach businesses are encouraged to participate!
- Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LBCOVID19
- Please note that the survey will close on Friday, May 1, 2020 at 11:59PM (PDT).
SBDC Webinar: Growing Your Business Online
- The Long Beach Small Business Development Center is hosting a webinar that will teach digital marketing strategies to grow a businesses online brand by leveraging search engine optimization, social media, and more.
- Participants will learn:
- The fastest ways to grow their online brand
- How to continually reach new market segments
- How to create a competitive advantage through social marketing
- Creative ways to leverage social media platforms to build online influence
- The webinar is happening on April 27th from 10:00 a.m. to noon
- To learn more and register, click on the following link: Growing Your Business Online.
Resources for Nonprofits
- The Nonprofit Partnership (TNP) has created a resource library with webinars that will help nonprofits navigate COVID-19 response.
- Examples of TNP COVID-19 webinars include:
- Managing Remote Teams
- Nonprofit Financial Stability During Uncertain Times
- Fundraising in a Time of Coronavirus
- What is the Role of the Board During a Crisis?
- To access these webinars, click on the following link: TNP Resource Library.
Thursday, April 16, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 16, 2020 Daily Updates
Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program
- It was recently announced that the $349 billion Paycheck Protection Program, which was designed to keep employees on payroll, has run out of money.
- The SBA is currently unable to accept new applications for this program based on available funding.
- The SBA is also unable to enroll new Paycheck Protection Program lenders at this time.
- The U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Small Business Administration Administrator are urging Congress to appropriate more money for the program.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
- It was recently announced that the SBA is unable to accept new applications at this time for EIDL, including the EIDL Advances that enabled some borrowers to access an up to $10,000 emergency advance.
- Applicants who have already submitted their applications will continue to be processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
City Council Takes Action for Economic Relief
- The Long Beach City Council unanimously adopted 25 individual actions related to a historic local Economic Relief Package designed to help working families and small business owners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- A link to the City’s Press Release, which summarize these actions, can be found by clicking on the following link: Press Release.
Reminder: Kiva Long Beach Loan Program
- The Kiva Long Beach Loan Program is an online community-lending program that is designed to support small businesses
- Loan amounts range from $500 to $15,000
- Interest rate is zero percent and there are no fees
- Repayment period is up to 36 months
- Approved borrowers may access a grace period of 6-months before the first payment is due
- Loan proceeds may go toward business expenses, such as payroll, rent, supplies/materials, utilities, and more
- All loan applications are reviewed and either approved or denied by Kiva, a nonprofit organization
- Approved loans have 30-days to successfully raise the entire loan on Kiva’s online crowd-lending platform
- To get started, contact the City’s Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249) or email BusinessDevelopment@longbeach.gov
Wednesday April 15, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 15, 2020 Daily Updates
Small Business Virtual Town Hall
- California Commissioner Ricardo Lara will be hosting a Small Business Virtual Town Hall on Friday, April 17th at 10:00 a.m.
- The Insurance Commissioner will discuss insurance issues for small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The following questions will be answered during the Town Hall:
- What is the federal government and State of California doing to assist small businesses and their workers?
- What is the role of the Department of Insurance in regulating insurance companies during this current emergency?
- What are my options if I do not have coverage for business losses due to the COVID-19 virus?
- The Department of Insurance has also released an FAQ for businesses dealing with the economic downtown.
- For more information on the Town Hall, please click on the following link: Small Business Virtual Town Hall.
Governor Newsome Announces New Initiatives to Support California Workers Impacted by COVID-19
- The State Employment Development Department (EDD) will launce a new call center on Monday, April 20th that will operate 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- The Governor also directed EDD to expedite access to the Work Share Program to avert layoffs.
- The EDD will also stand up a one-stop shop for individuals applying for unemployment insurance and the new federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program starting Tuesday, April 28th.
- The PUA will provide federally funded benefits distinct from the Unemployment Insurance Program for certain individuals out of work or partially unemployed due to COVID-19.
- This includes the self-employed and independent contractors.
- PUA benefits will be issued within 28-48 hours—not the traditional 21 days for regular Unemployment Insurance claims.
- For more information, click on the following link: New Initiatives.
Daily SBDC Network COVID-19 Information for Small Businesses Calls
- The SBDC Network is hosting daily calls that gives businesses and business support organizations an opportunity to ask SBDC advisors questions about the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Paycheck Protection Program, and other funding opportunities.
- The call is held Monday – Friday and begins at 3:00pm.
- For more information, please click on the following link: Daily SBDC Calls.
Tuesday, April 14, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 14, 2020 Daily Updates
REMINDER - Social Distancing Protocols for Essential Businesses
- The City of Long Beach issued an amendment to the existing “Safer at Home” Order, in an effort to further reduce the spread of COVID-19.
- Effective now through May 15, 2020, essential businesses are required to implement and post Social Distancing Protocols at their facilities maintaining operations.
- All essential businesses must post their Social Distancing Protocols by Wednesday, April 15, 2020.
- A copy of the Social Distancing Protocol must be provided to each employee performing working at the business facility.
- A copy of the Social Distancing Protocols Form that must be posted can be found by clicking on the following link: Social Distancing Protocols Form.
REMINDER – City of Long Beach Emergency Microloan Program
- The City’s new Emergency Microloan Program offers low-interest loans to businesses and 501c3 nonprofits with five employees or less
- Loan amounts range from $2,500 to $10,000
- Loan payments may be deferred up to 9-months
- The repayment period is 5-7 years
- The interest rate is 2.44 %
- Loan proceeds can be used on business expenses, such as payroll costs, rent, supplies, utilities and more
- Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis
- For more information, call (562) 570-4BIZ (4249)
Governor Newsom Outlines Six Critical Indicators the State will Consider Before Modifying the Stay-at-Home Order
- Governor Gavin Newsom today unveiled six key indicators that will guide California’s thinking for when and how to modify the State Stay-at-Home Order.
- California’s six indicators for modifying the Stay-at-Home Order are:
- The ability to monitor and protect communities through testing, contact tracing, isolating, and supporting those who are positive or exposed
- The ability to prevent infection in people who are at risk for more severe COVID-19
- The ability of the hospital and healthy systems to handle surges
- The ability to develop therapeutics to meet the demand
- The ability for businesses, schools, and child care facilities to support physical distancing
- The ability to determine when to reinstitute certain measures, such as they Stat-at-Home Orders, if necessary.
- Following is a link to a presentation that summarizes California’s Roadmap to Modify the Stay-at-Home Order
Monday, April 13, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 13, 2020 Daily Updates
Amendment to City of Long Beach “Safer at Home” Order
- The City of Long Beach issued an amendment to the existing “Safer at Home” Order, in an effort to further reduce the spread of COVID-19.
- Effective now through May 15, 2020, essential businesses are required to implement and post Social Distancing Protocols at their facilities maintaining operations.
- All essential businesses must post their Social Distancing Protocols by Wednesday, April 15, 2020.
- Appendix A of the “Safer at Home” Order includes the Social Distancing Protocol form that must be posted.
- The Social Distancing Protocol must be posted at or near the entrance of the relevant facility, and shall be easily viewable by the public and employees.
- A copy of the Social Distancing Protocol must also be provided to each employee performing work at the facility.
- All essential businesses shall provide evidence of Social Distancing Protocol implementation to any authority enforcing the “Safer at Home” Order upon demand.
- To review the full “Safer at Home” Order, please click on the following link: “Safer at Home” Order.
Webinar: Restaurant Industry Options in the Midst of COVID-19
- The El Camino College Small Business Development Center is offering a webinar for the Restaurant Industry.
- This webinar will feature key industry leaders from major national restaurant and food service delivery businesses, as well as several successful restauranteurs.
- The webinar is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14th from 2:00 – 2:30pm.
- Topics of discussion include:
- How to Critically Appraise Your Current Situation
- Strategies for “Making Lemonade from Lemons”
- Optimizing Customer Interaction
- Maximizing Operational Efficiencies
- Distribution Resources, What You Can Expect
- Click on the following link for more information and to register: SBDC Webinar
Long Beach Post Shop
- The Long Beach Post, with the assistance of the City of Long Beach, has launched a marketplace for local makers and businesses to connect with people looking to purchase masks and face coverings.
- The Long Beach Post received no commission from the sale of products sold through this marketplace.
- To learn more about this marketplace and purchase masks and face coverings visit shop.lbpost.com.
Friday, April 10, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 10, 2020 Daily Updates
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to assess the impacts of this public health crisis on Long Beach businesses. The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department is partnering with the Council of Business Associations, Downtown Long Beach Alliance and the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce to administer the COVID-19 Business Impact Survey.
The COVID-19 Business Impact Survey is intended to evaluate the impacts to Long Beach businesses caused by COVID-19 and determine what resources may be necessary to aid in the resiliency and recovery of all businesses citywide. All Long Beach businesses are encouraged to participate!
Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LBCOVID19
Please note that the survey will close on Friday, May 1, 2020 at 11:59PM (PDT).
Wednesday, April 8, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 8, 2020 Daily Updates
Today’s daily communication reminds you about the City’s COVID-19 business hotline and website and how you may access additional information we are sharing on social media and our newsletter.
- Business Hotline
- The City of Long Beach has a COVID-19 Business Hotline that is staffed Monday – Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Please encourage individuals to call this phone number if they need immediate assistance.
- We have a team that is dedicated to answering questions and referring people to resources.
- Business and Worker Resources Website
- The City of Long Beach has launched a website that lists a variety of resources available to businesses and workers. The url is www.longbeach.gov/4BIZ
- Link LB – Economic Development Department
- The Economic Development Department periodically emails news and updates to people that are registered to our email list. To sign-up for our email list, please click on the following url: Link LB.
- Economic Development Department Social Media
- The Economic Development Department is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. To stay up to date on the latest news and information, please follow us on one or all of our social media accounts:
- Twitter: @LBEconDev
- Instagram: @lbecondev
- Facebook: @LBEconDev
- The Economic Development Department is active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. To stay up to date on the latest news and information, please follow us on one or all of our social media accounts:
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 7, 2020 Daily Updates
Los Angeles County Employer Assistance Grant Fund
- Los Angeles County has launched a new $500,000 grant fund for businesses and nonprofits based in Los Angeles County
- Grant awards up to $10,000 are available and are based on demonstrated need
- Applicant eligibility:
- For-profit corporations, partnerships, or non-profit with a profit
- Have between 2 and 50 full-time employees
- Less than $2,000,000 in gross receipts or annual revenue
- Have been established on or before December 4, 2019
- Demonstrate significant economic hardship as a result of COVID-19
- Businesses that have demonstrated evidence of a loss of revenue of 20% will have met the burden of demonstrating significant economic hardship
- Funds may be used for rent/mortgage payments, inventory, utility expenses, payables incurred before the covered period, and other operational costs
- The application will open on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at 8:00 a.m.
- The application will close once 150 applications are received or at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 15, whichever is first
- Funds scheduled to be disbursed by April 24, 2020
- For more information, watch L.A. County’s grant informational video: https://vimeo.com/405235274/5c6f4085e5.
- You may also contact the Los Angeles County Business and Worker Disaster Help Center at (833) 238-4450.
Monday, April 6, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 6, 2020 Daily Updates
Paycheck Protection Program Update
- The Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program, which was designed to help small businesses keep their workforce employed, officially launched last Friday, April 3rd.
- The U.S. Treasury Department issued its final rules for the program on Thursday, April 2nd, which gave banks little time to prepare. As such, a few banks decided to hold off on processing applications until the weekend.
- Banks that did start processing loan applications have been overwhelmed with interest. For example, Bank of America received around 145,000 loan applications totaling $30 billion on the first day and a half of the program.
- Wells Fargo is no longer accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications.
- Some banks have set limits on eligibility. For example, in some cases you must be an existing customer with a business checking account active as of February 15, 2020. In other cases, you must be an existing customer, but do not need to have a business checking out.
- As a reminder, the Paycheck Protection Program is a nearly $350 billion program. While that is a lot of money, demand is high. Local businesses interested in applying for this program should contact their bank right away and ask if they are participating in the program.
- Small businesses that are not bank customers should sign-up to become a bank customer with a local Small Business Administration lender.
- Businesses can find eligible lenders by visiting the following website: https://www.sba.gov/paycheckprotection/find.
Friday, April 3, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 3, 2020 Daily Updates
Today’s update from the City of Long Beach Economic Development Department focuses on warning businesses about fraud and scams.
Beware of Fraud and Scams When Applying to U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
Over the last few days, the Economic Development Department has shared information about the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan and the Paycheck Protection Program. Unfortunately, unscrupulous actors have already started taking advantage of small business owners that are interested in applying to these programs. CAMEO, California’s statewide micro-enterprise network, has put together a good summary of things to look out for and the SBA’s contact information:
- SBA does not initiate contact on either 7(a) or disaster loans or grants. If a business is proactively contacted by someone claiming to be from the SBA, suspect fraud.
- If a business is contacted by someone promising to get approval of an SBA loan, but requires any payment up front or offers a high interest bridge loan in the interim, suspect fraud.
- Look out for phishing attacks/scams utilizing the SBA logo. These may be attempts to obtain your personally identifiable information, to obtain personal banking access, or to install ransomware/malware on your computer.
- If a business is in the process of applying for an SBA loan and receives email correspondence asking for personally identifiable information, ensure that the referenced application number is consistent with the actual application number.
- Any email communication from SBA will come from accounts ending with gov.
- The presence of an SBA logo on a webpage does not guaranty the information is accurate or endorsed by SBA. Please cross-reference any information you receive with information available at sba.gov.
- If you have a question about getting a SBA disaster loan, call 800-659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
- If you have questions about other SBA lending products, call SBA’s Answer Desk at 800-827-5722 or send an email to answerdesk@sba.gov.
- Any suspected fraud around SBA loan programs should be reported to the Office of Inspector General hotline at 1-800-767-0385 or online.
As a reminder, we encourage any businesses that need help completing their SBA applications to setup an appointment with the Long Beach Small Business Development Center (SBDC). To setup an appointment with the SBDC, businesses can call 562-938-5100 or sign-up online at https://longbeachsbdc.org/.
Thursday, April 2, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 2, 2020 Daily Updates
U.S. Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program
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- This loan was designed to help small businesses keep their workforce employed.
- Up to $10 million is available at an interest rate of 0.5% over two years.
- Loan proceeds may be used for: payroll, rent, utilities, interest on any debt incurred prior to February 15th, 2020, and more.
- The first payment is deferred for six months.
- Loan amounts will be determined by 2.5x average monthly payroll costs capped at $100,000 per employee.
- Any small business or non-profit with less than 500 employees affected by COVID-19 can apply.
- There are no collateral requirements, no personal guarantees, or credit score minimums.
- There are no fees payable to the lender or Small Business Administration.
- You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender, any participating federally insured depository institution, or federal credit union.
- Up to 100% forgiveness of loan amount equal to the sum of the qualified costs incurred and payments made during the covered 8-week period following loan origination.
- At least 75% of the loan must be used for payroll costs.
- For assistance, contact your banker or the local Small Business Development Center.
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Small Business Webinar: Updates on the Paycheck Protection Program, Alternative Funding Options, and “State of the Pandemic”
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- The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and Wells Fargo are hosting a webinar tomorrow that will cover important topics for small businesses.
- To learn more and register for tomorrow’s webinar visit: https://lachamber.com/event/2020/04/03/small-business/covid-19-small-business-forum-webinar-series/
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Governor Newsom Announces New Help for Small Businesses
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- Today, Governor Newsome announced that the State of California is allocating $50 million to the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank for loan guarantees to small businesses to help eliminate barriers for capital for individuals who do not qualify for federal funds, including low-wealth and undocumented communities.
- The State is also allowing small businesses to defer payment of sales and use taxes of up to $50,000, for up to 12 months.
- More information can be found by visiting the following website: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2020/04/02/governor-newsom-announces-new-help-for-small-businesses-workers-displaced-by-covid-19/
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Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
April 1, 2020 Daily Updates
- Today rent is due for many residential and commercial tenants.
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- Please remind businesses that the City of Long Beach City Council passed an Ordinance that temporarily prohibits evictions for commercial and residential tenants.
- The temporary prohibition of evictions is currently through May 31, 2020.
- Tenants must notify landlords of their inability to pay rent and provide supporting documentation that shows financial hardship due to COVID-19.
- Some examples of financial hardship include a substantial decrease in household income caused by layoffs or a reduction in business income caused by a reduction in opening hours or consumer demand.
- A copy of the Ordinance can be found here.
- The City's press release can be found here.
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- This is a partnership between Verizon and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
- LISC will use the Verizon funding to provide grants of up to $10,000 to businesses facing immediate financial pressure because of COVID-19—especially entrepreneurs of color, women-owned businesses and other enterprises in historically underserved communities who don’t have access to flexible, affordable capital.
- Grant proceeds can be used for:
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- Paying rent and utilities
- Paying rent and utilities
- Meeting payroll
- Paying outstanding debt to vendors
- Other immediate operational costs
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- Applications must be completed by Saturday, April 4, 8:59 p.m. (Pacific Time)
- Applications can be found by clicking on the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/
r/LISCSBGrant
Tuesday, March 31, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
03.31.2020 Daily Updates
- U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
- The EIDL application process has been simplified and a new application portal is live right now at www.sba.gov/disaster.
- EIDL Advances – also available now are advances of up to $10,000 on EIDL loans. The form is part of the new EIDL application process above. If approved, these funds can be used for payroll and other operating expenses and will be forgiven.
- The turnaround time for the advance is 3 days after a complete application has been submitted.
- This advance may be available even if your EIDCL application was declined or is still pending.
- If you wish to apply for the advance on your EIDL, please visit the website link above as soon as possible to fill out a new, streamlined application. In order to qualify for the advance, you need to submit this new application even if you previously submitted an EIDL application.
- Applying for an advance will not impact the status or slow your existing application.
- Governor Newsom Signs Executive Order Providing Relief to California Small Businesses
- Yesterday, Governor Newsom signed an executive order that will provide tax relief for small businesses.
- The executive order allows the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration to offer a 90-day extension for tax returns and tax payments for all businesses filing a return for less than $1 million in taxes. This means small businesses will have until the end of July 2020 to file their first-quarter returns.
Monday, March 30, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 30, 2020 Daily Updates
Today’s daily update is focused entirely on the amended Safer at Home Order for Control of COVID-19 that was issued on Saturday, March 28th.
A summary of what has changed in the Order is outlined below:
- Essential Businesses must make every effort to ensure social distancing among employees, which includes:
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- Allowing telecommuting, video or phone meetings, stagger schedules so less people are at work at one time, separate employees by six feet.
- Limiting meetings or gatherings of any sort, especially in locations where employees could interact or come in contact with any member of the public.
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- This includes limiting or eliminating (1) employees from traveling in vehicles together and/or (2) the need for employees to physically work in teams of two or more.
- If meetings or gatherings are absolutely necessary, Essential Businesses must maintain social distancing to the extent practicable.
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- Facilities that must close and are now closed:
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- All public beaches, trails, trailheads, basketball courts, tennis courts, volleyball courts, golf courses, dog parks, playgrounds, skate parks, public park and public beach parking lots, and picnic areas.
- Private gyms in multifamily housing complexes, such as in condominium and apartment complexes.
- Businesses no longer considered “essential”:
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- Businesses that sell exclusively personal care products (e.g. beauty supply)
- Limitations on essential businesses:
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- Death care services are limited to the removal, care, and preparation, and burial of deceased persons or animals. Funerals are not permitted.
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- Painting services are only permitted if (1) the purpose of painting is to sell or lease new residences, (2) the painting is necessary to maintain the safety or habitability of residences or businesses, or (3) the painting is due to new construction.
- Additional Restrictions:
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- Licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensaries can temporarily do curbside pickup under the following conditions:
- Payment for cannabis and/or cannabis products must be made in advance of the curbside pickup.
- Patients must submit proof of a valid government-issued identification and the patient’s medical identification card prior to the curbside pickup.
- Upon pickup, the medical dispensary must verify that the identification of the patient is the same person who ordered curbside pickup via the presentation of a valid government-issued identification.
- Products must be delivered to patients in opaque packaging.
- Uniformed and licensed security personnel must be present during all curbside pickup transactions.
- All other local and State laws, regulations, and lawful orders are adhered to.
- Licensed Medical Cannabis Dispensaries can temporarily do curbside pickup under the following conditions:
- Enforcement:
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- The City now can issue administrative citations against businesses operating in violation of the Safer at Home Order.
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- The Water Department, in consultation with the City Attorney, may shut off water service to non-essential businesses operating in violation of the order, as appropriate
Friday, March 27, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 27, 2020 Daily Updates
- The City of Long Beach Economic Development Department is working a variety of one-pagers that will provide information on loan programs, employer and worker programs, essential vs. non-essential businesses, temporary bans on evictions policy, and more. One-pagers will be shared with this group as they become available. The goal is to reduce confusion by providing consistent and digestible information.
- The WorkPlace Job Center (4811 Airport Plaza Dr., Ste. 120) remains open to assist Long Beach families, workers and small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. The WorkPlace Job Center is managed by the Pacific Gateway Workforce Innovation Network. If you hear of any businesses that are considering laying off employees, please encourage them to speak with Pacific Gateway by calling (562) 570-3702 or the Business Hotline at (562) 570-4BIZ (4249). In some cases, they may be able to direct employers to resources that will reduce layoffs or at the minimum connect workers to important unemployment insurance information.
- You may have heard that Congress is working on passing a $2 trillion economic relief package that will provide support for small businesses, such as forgivable loans and grants. The Economic Development Department is tracking the federal conversation around the economic relief package and working to identify exactly how these resources may materialize for Long Beach small businesses. More information will be shared with this group as it becomes available.
Thursday, March 26, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 26, 2020 Daily Update
- The U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, which offers up to $2 million at 3.75% interest rate for businesses, website is currently overwhelmed and the SBA is only accepting paper applications at this time. Forms can be found at the following website: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/apply-for-disaster-loan/index.html. The local Small Business Development Center is available to help people with SBA loan applications. They can be reached at 562-938-5100. Appointments can also be scheduled online: https://longbeachsbdc.org/.
- The California Small Business Development Center Network has created a helpful resource guide for businesses. The resource guide covers the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, State Employment Development Department resources, and information on business interruption insurance. The resource guide can be found at the following website: https://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/covid_19_resources_ca-sbdc.pdf
- Price gouging is a concern right now, especially as there are currently limited supplies at some larger grocery stores. California’s anti-price gouging statute, Penal Code Section 396, prohibits raising the price of many consumer goods and services by more than 10% after an emergency has been declared. More information can be found here: https://oag.ca.gov/consumers/pricegougingduringdisasters#2C.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 25, 2020 Update
- Yesterday, the City Council passed an Ordinance that put in place a temporary prohibition of evictions due to COVID-19.
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- The Ordinance applies to both commercial and residential tenants.
- The temporary prohibition of evictions is currently through May 31, 2020.
- Tenants must notify landlords of their inability to pay rent and provide supporting documentation that shows financial hardship due to COVID-19.
- Some examples of financial hardship include a substantial decrease in household income caused by layoffs or a reduction in business income caused by a reduction in opening hours or consumer demand.
- More information can be found here.
- Pacific Gateway, the City’s Workforce Development Agency, is coordinating daily livestreams on Instagram. The livestream starts at 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Topics of discussion range from Unemployment Insurance, State Work Sharing Programs, information on job openings, and other resources for workers and employers. Pacific Gateway’s Instagram handle is @pacgateway.
- The City’s Health Officer has amended the “Safer at Home Order for Control of COVID-19.” Definitions for “essential businesses” start on page 5, Section 14. Page 2, Section 3 of the Order describes the businesses that shall close through April 19, 2020.
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 24, 2020 Daily Updates
- The City of Long Beach has just launched an Emergency Business Assistance Loan Program. Below is a summary of the program:
- Existing microenterprises (5 employees or less) may apply for an emergency loan from $2,500 to $10,000 on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Lowest available interest rate will be around 3 percent
- Loan payments may be deferred up to 9-months
- No personal guarantee required
- 5-7 year repayment period
- Loan proceeds must be spent on legitimate business expenses
- Business advisors from the Small Business Development Center can help people apply for the loan for free. They can be reached at (562) 938-5100.
- Please direct any loan inquiries to either Seyed Jalali at (562) 570-6172, Eric Romero at (562) 570-6705, or the following email address: BusinessDevelopment@longbeach.gov.
- The City will track all complaints of businesses that are not complying with the Health Order. To report a violation, call the City’s Communications Center non-emergency dispatch at (562) 435-6711. All complaints will be reviewed. Violation of, or failure to comply with the Order is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both
- While the Permit Center is closed, Development Services will be continuing limited operations via phone, email, and online. Please visit the following pages for more information:
- Building & Safety Bureau (including Permit Center plan submittal and inspection services)
- Code Enforcement Bureau (including housing inspections and abatement issues)
- Housing & Neighborhood Services Bureau (including housing resource referrals and processing of loans and rebates)
- Planning Bureau (including project updates, plan checks, entitlements, and public noticing)
Monday, March 23, 2020 - Media Update for BUSINESSES
City of Long Beach: COVID-19
Media Update for BUSINESSES
March 23, 2020 Daily Updates
- The City’s Business Hotline Call Center is now operating seven (7) days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This past weekend 21 staff members from other departments joined our team to support the Call Center. All staff members were trained to respond to a variety of business inquiries. The Business Hotline number is (562) 570-4BIZ (4249).
- The Long Beach Disaster Relief Fund Grant requirements are now available online at https://longbeachcf.org/lb-disaster-relief-grant/. Grant requests up to $20,000 will be accepted. Eligible projects include:
- Grants to nonprofits serving low-income individuals affected by COVID-19 to pay for critical expenses;
- Grants to nonprofits providing microloans and/or funds to small businesses affected by COVID-19 to pay for critical expenses and adapt business models during this crisis;
- Grants to nonprofits providing emergency funds for workers laid off as a result of COVID-19;
- Grants to nonprofits providing assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness for sheltering, food, sanitation supplies to mitigate the spread COVID-19, and to quarantine as a result of COVID-19 exposure, and
- Grants to nonprofits to provide food and critical supply delivery to those who are home-bound.