Resources For Businesses & Employees Affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The North Country Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting our local businesses, that’s why we are providing these resources to assist you in preparing for, and working through the challenges related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19.) As a community we are all in this together, and if you have questions or need anything at all we encourage you to reach out to us.
Small Business Administration Disaster Declaration
U.S. Small Business Administration - On March 18, 2020, SBA’s Administrator approved the Governor’s request for an SBA disaster declaration. This approval allows small businesses to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Small Businesses from all counties will now be able to apply online, send email or call (603) 225-1400 or (800) 659-2955. SBA Fact Sheet
NH Unemployment Information
Layoffs and business closures: If your business faces a potential layoff, the State of New Hampshire offers services through its Rapid Response program. Rapid Response is a comprehensive, collaborative and immediate initiative to respond to and mitigate layoffs and closures. Rapid Response benefits both employers and employees through services to workers who are laid off, as well as layoff aversion information for businesses.
Employers facing potential layoffs or closures should contact Joe Doiron at Joseph.Doiron@livefree.nh.gov, 603-271-0146, to activate a Rapid Response team. More information can be found at NH Works.
Employees experiencing layoffs: The State of New Hampshire offers a number of services for employees who have been laid off. New Hampshire Employment Security has a list of available services. Individuals will need to file for unemployment each week of temporary unemployment and this can and should be done online or by calling 603-271-7700.
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) provides services to ensure the health and well-being of citizens during a layoff. Dislocated workers can discuss healthcare options, apply for food stamps, cash assistance, medical assistance, childcare and medical savings. Individuals can apply online at NHEasy or by calling 603-271-9700.
NH State Resources
U.S. Small Business Administration - On March 18, 2020, SBA’s Administrator approved the Governor’s request for an SBA disaster declaration. This approval allows small businesses to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Small Businesses from all counties will now be able to apply online, send email or call (603) 225-1400 or (800) 659-2955. SBA Fact Sheet
NH Unemployment Information
Layoffs and business closures: If your business faces a potential layoff, the State of New Hampshire offers services through its Rapid Response program. Rapid Response is a comprehensive, collaborative and immediate initiative to respond to and mitigate layoffs and closures. Rapid Response benefits both employers and employees through services to workers who are laid off, as well as layoff aversion information for businesses.
Employers facing potential layoffs or closures should contact Joe Doiron at Joseph.Doiron@livefree.nh.gov, 603-271-0146, to activate a Rapid Response team. More information can be found at NH Works.
Employees experiencing layoffs: The State of New Hampshire offers a number of services for employees who have been laid off. New Hampshire Employment Security has a list of available services. Individuals will need to file for unemployment each week of temporary unemployment and this can and should be done online or by calling 603-271-7700.
- Guidance for Non-Profit and Public Employers
- Guidance for Private Employers
- Guidance for Excluded Services Now Eligible
- Guidance for Self Employed and Previously Excluded Employment
New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) provides services to ensure the health and well-being of citizens during a layoff. Dislocated workers can discuss healthcare options, apply for food stamps, cash assistance, medical assistance, childcare and medical savings. Individuals can apply online at NHEasy or by calling 603-271-9700.
NH State Resources
- NH Department of Health and Human Services - For the most up-to-date Covid-19 situation in New Hampshire.
- NH Department of Business and Economic Affairs - BEA stands ready to provide assistance to businesses affected by COVID-19 through custom and personal input from our Business Retention specialists.
- NH Small Business Development Center - The New Hampshire Small Business Development Center provides business advising and education services to small and medium-sized businesses.
- NH Business Finance Authority - Business loan programs administered by the BFA include small-business loan guarantees, the Capital Access Program, the Guarantee Asset Program, and the Working Capital Line of Credit Guarantee. In addition, the BFA offers finance programs designed to help local or regional economic development organizations recapitalize or expand to stimulate business movement to the state.
- Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) - Grants, Loans and Tax Credits to assist municipalities, nonprofits and businesses to meet their current and ongoing needs, up to $500,000.
- NH Insurance Department - The Department provides information for consumers as well as for business owners on how their respective insurance policies may cover or be affected by COVID-19.
- NH Secretary of State - The New Hampshire Secretary of State is responsible for recording all required information regarding business and entities operating in New Hampshire.
- Agency of Commerce and Community Developement - To stay informed when new information becomes available, please sign-up for our COVID-19 Economic and Community Response Newsletter.
- Vermont Department of Health - Stay informed about COVID-19. Protect your health. Check regularly for current guidance.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides information for individuals, businesses and employers, schools, and healthcare providers on how to best respond to COVID-19 and limit transmission.
- U.S. Small Business Administration - The Small Business Administration is providing low-interest loans to small businesses and non-profits that have been severely impacted by COVID-19. This is in addition to other development, expansion, and international trade loan programs that are still currently available for businesses.
- U.S Department of Agriculture - The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on public policy, the best available science, and effective management.
- U.S. Department of Labor - The Department of Labor has resources to help workers and employers for addressing COVID-19 virus.
- U.S. Department of State - The Department of State maintains information for travelers looking to go overseas and for U.S. citizens already overseas on how foreign countries are responding to COVID-19. Currently, the Department of State is urging Americans to reconsider traveling overseas at this time.
- Department of Homeland Security - The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for, among other things, transportation security and the import of goods into the United States. Currently the Department of Homeland Security is working to implement Presidential Proclamations relating to the entry of U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens from certain countries.
- Export-Import Bank of the United States - The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) is an independent federal agency that provides export credit for the sale of U.S. goods and services overseas. EXIM is providing program waivers and deadline extensions to customers as a part of its COVID-19 response in addition to continuing to provide its financial services.
- Internal Revenue Service extends tax filing, payment deadline to July 15th, 2020
The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service have extended tax filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses in response to the COVID-19 Outbreak. The IRS urges taxpayers who are owed a refund to file as quickly as possible. The IRS has also established a special section focused on steps to help businesses and individual taxpayers affected by the coronavirus.
- US Chamber of Commerce - The U.S. Chamber is working closely with the White House, U.S. government agencies, and foreign government officials to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for the near and long-term impact. Visit our live blog for the latest updates.
- NH Business & Industry Association - COVID-19 Information & Resources for Employers
- Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives - Chambers and businesses need to prepare for the impacts of COVID-19 transmission in the United States. Learn more about implementing a series of actions that minimize impact on local communities and support the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) containment strategy.
- World Health Organization - Coronavirus Disease Outbreak – Current Updates
- Granite United Way - Across New Hampshire and Windsor County, Vermont, 1 in 4 families struggle to afford their basic needs. One minor issue can create a major financial hardship. With the COVID-19 in our communities, these families are particularly in danger. One missed paycheck can be catastrophic. Dial 2-1-1
- National Association of Realtors - In response to the growing concerns about COVID-19, commonly referred to as coronavirus, NAR is providing this guidance to help REALTOR® associations respond to the coronavirus's impact on the real estate industry.
- New Hampshire Lodging & Restaurant Association - We are working closely with state and federal resources and will make updates to this page as information becomes available. You will find information, resources, and tips on this page. We know there is a lot to digest. Please scroll through to find the resources you need and as always, we are here if you need us and can be reached at (603) 228-9585.
- Facebook for Business - We know that your business may be experiencing disruptions resulting from the global outbreak of COVID-19. We’ve heard that a little financial support can go a long way, so we are offering $100M in cash grants and ad credits to help during this challenging time.
- Google - Resources to help your small business manage through uncertainty. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you navigate this for your employees and customers. Remote work? Work, teach, and learn from anywhere with Google.
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care - Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation announced it will give more than $3 million for COVID-19 relief efforts by supporting community and nonprofit organizations in Conn., Maine, Mass. and N.H.
- NH Charitable Foundation - Community Crisis Action Fund responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- NH Center For Non-Profits - Our team at the NH Center for Nonprofits will share resources here that NH nonprofits may find useful as they navigate the implications of the unfolding public health crisis. As always, feel free to reach out to us with specific questions at info@nhnonprofits.org.
- Coos Economic Development Corporation - Created to promote economic opportunity and business development, CEDC provides continuing support for existing and new businesses within Coös County. It facilitates Community Development Block Grants, maintains a revolving loan fund, administers the Coös County Economic Development Funds, and provides technical assistance for businesses throughout the North Country.
- NCIC - NCIC provides capital and expertise to strengthen businesses, communities and employment opportunities across New Hampshire and Vermont.
- Bangor Savings Bank - We understand that this is a very challenging time for individuals, families, businesses, and communities. We are taking extra steps to provide support and additional resources for our customers.
- Citizens Bank - We’re ready to be there for you. The coronavirus crisis has led to financial and personal stress due to loss of work, childcare challenges, illness, or caretaking. If you need relief or have any concerns or questions about your financial situation, please contact us. In the meantime, we’re making the following commitment to our customers, communities, and colleagues impacted by COVID-19.
NH Governor Sununu's Executive Orders - Click here.
On March 13, Governor Chris Sununu declared a state of emergency in response to the coronavirus. The emergency declaration helps to free up critical funding that will aid the state in responding to the pandemic.
On March 13, Governor Chris Sununu declared a state of emergency in response to the coronavirus. The emergency declaration helps to free up critical funding that will aid the state in responding to the pandemic.
VT Governor Phil Scott's Executive Orders - Click here.
