COVID-19 Update – Business Recovery

District of Columbia sent this bulletin at 03/24/2020 04:00 PM EDT

March 24, 2020

COVID-19 Update – Business Recovery

Message From Shawn Townsend, Director, MONC

Dear Nightlife & Culture Stakeholders,

As DC Government responds to the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) in our community, please know that we understand the severe impact this pandemic is having on small businesses. On March 20, 2020, Mayor Muriel Bowser extended the prohibition on mass gatherings during a public health emergency through April 27, 2020. During these unprecedented times, I understand the confusion and frustration. However, the tough decisions Mayor Bowser has made are in the best interest of our community, and most importantly to protect the health of residents and workers - it will save lives. I encourage employers and employees to visit coronavirus.dc.gov to find the latest information regarding business recovery, unemployment services, grant opportunities, and much more. We are #NightlifeStrong.

Sincerely,

Shawn Townsend

ABC-licensed Restaurants & Taverns Can Deliver Food, Beer, Wine, And Spirits

Courtesy of kcur.org

ABC-licensed restaurants and taverns are able to sell beer, wine, and spirits for carry-out and/or delivery to DC residences in conjunction with the purchase of one or more prepared food items. Before an eligible restaurant or tavern may sell beer, wine, and spirits in closed containers for carry-out and delivery, they must register with ABRA—no exceptions. Registration can be completed in five (5) minutes or less.

Want Your Restaurant Featured On Mayor Bowser's Social Media Account? Here's How!

Courtesy of Shaw's Tavern

In order to continue to support our business community that are offering delivery and carry-out, restaurants and taverns can submit two pictures and a short blurb of your business to digital@dc.gov to be highlighted on Mayor Bowser’s social media accounts.

Recovery For Business

Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance Loan

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has accepted the District of Columbia’s declaration for assistance in the form of economic injury disaster loans following the advent of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and DC businesses can start applying now. While the SBA directly administers this loan program, the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), led by Director Kristi Whitfield, will liaise with the SBA on behalf of the District of Columbia.

Small Business Recovery Microgrants

Mayor Muriel Bowser established a $25 Million Dollar Fund to support small businesses impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19). The recovery microgrants fund will be administered by the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED). You can apply HERE.

Need help walking through every step of the application process? Please use the Application Instructions & FAQ Document.

Still have questions or need assistance? Contact DMPED by filling out the COVID-19 Business Inquiry Form.

Recovery For Workers

File For Unemployment Benefits

District employees may file for unemployment compensation at www.dcnetworks.org or you can call 202-724-7000. Claimants are encouraged to file online to avoid long wait times by phone.