Minneapolis Forward
Over the last several months, our Minneapolis community has faced extraordinarily painful challenges. The City of Minneapolis is working hard to help the people of our city heal and recover, to emerge stronger and more equitable than before.
The City has a new website to learn about the City’s response to the killing of George Floyd and the events that occurred after his death. This website includes investigations into his death and plans to improve public safety and policing. You’ll also find resources for residents and businesses. The resources help those affected by recent violence, civic unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Repairing or Rebuilding your Business
If you have planned repairs, you can complete most permit applications online. For questions regarding the permit application and review process email Development@minneapolismn.gov
If you are exploring your options for rebuilding, and have questions about zoning or property use, call 612-673-5065 or email zoning.recoveryinfo@minneapolismn.gov.
Lake Street Council’s Recovery Grant
The purpose of the We Love Lake Street Recovery Fund is to support the recovery of businesses and nonprofit organizations in the Lake Street corridor after the civil uprising that followed in the wake of George Floyd’s murder.
Applications are now available. For more information and to apply visit the Lake Street Council.
Stay Safe MN
Minnesota is in Phase III of the safely opening plan. In this phase, bars and restaurants, retail, personal services, as well as gyms and fitness centers may all be open with occupancy restrictions and protective measures in place.
All business must create a COVID-19 preparedness plan. For those businesses that have been closed due to the Governor’s orders, it will have to prepare one prior to returning to in-person business activities. Those businesses that have been open throughout this emergency, will need to create a preparedness plan and have that in place no later than June 29.
For state level industry guidelines, COVID-19 preparedness plan templates, and more, visit https://staysafe.mn.gov/.
For Minneapolis specific information, visit www.minneapolismn.gov/coronavirus.
Additional COVID-19 Relief Funds Available
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has reopened the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portal to all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19.
Paycheck Protection Program
Funding for businesses is still available through the Federal Paycheck Protection Program. Additionally, the SBA and Department of Treasury have announced new guidelines and flexibilities for the program. Highlights include
- Decreased the percentage of payroll costs required for forgiveness to 60% from 75%
- Increased the period for spending funds to 24 weeks, from 8
- Limiting the lookback period for applicants with certain felonies to one year, from 5
For more information the SBA PPP website, or talk to your lender. The deadline for lenders to submit information to the SBA is June 30.
State of MN Coronavirus Relief
The State of Minnesota has approved a bill authorizing $60 million in small business coronavirus relief grants. This funding includes
- $18 million for businesses with less than six employees
- $10 million for minority-owned businesses
- $2.5 million for women-owned businesses
- $2.5 million for veteran-owned businesses
- $2.5 million for vendors in cultural malls
Detailed eligibility criteria and application materials have not yet been developed but will be shared as they become available.
Events and Training
SBA Funding Options for COVID-19 Related Economic Disruptions Q&A
Thursday, June 18 | 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Online
SBA Funding Options for COVID-19 Related Economic Disruptions Small businesses are facing an unprecedented economic disruption due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. In addition to traditional SBA funding programs, the CARES Act established several new temporary programs to address the COVID-19 outbreak. Join us and learn about the Payroll Protection Program, as well as SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan and Advance Program, and more. Register here
Negotiating Contracts & Leases Webinar
Friday, June 19 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. | Online
The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, in partnership with LegalCORPS and Springboard for the Arts, invite you to join us on Friday, June 19 for Negotiating Contracts & Leases When the Unexpected Hits. During this free webinar, we will hear from business law attorneys with expertise in contracts and lease negotiations as they pertain to nonprofit organizations, particularly in these times of crisis for many. Register here
Preparing a COVID19 Preparedness/Reopening Plan for your Small Business
Monday, June 22 | 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Online
The SBA’s Minnesota District Office is hosting training webinars to provide more general technical assistance to support small business reopening in Minnesota. Join us for an overview of the planning and process of safely reopening your small business in Minnesota. Register here
Business Resources Webinars in Spanish
Hosted by the Small Business Administration (SBA)
Tuesday June 23 | 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Online
This webinar will provide a series of information to help Latinos who are in business or are planning to start a business learn about the programs offer by the SBA, LEDC, the City of Minneapolis, and other guests. Register here
Hook & Ladder Clinic + Free Legal Assistance
Hosted by the Longfellow Business Association and Hook and Ladder
Thursday, June 25 | 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Hook and Ladder Theater and Lounge 3010 Minnehaha Ave
On June 25, the Longfellow Business Association LBA is teaming up with the Hook and Ladder Theatre and Lounge to bring local attorneys directly to Longfellow provide free legal assistance to businesses in the wake of Covid-19 and the recent George Floyd demonstrations. These attorneys are donating their time to help small businesses with issues including business interruption, property damage, insurance concerns, employment law questions, and more. All business owners are welcome to stop in and consult with an attorney for free. Get the full details and links to additional pro-bono legal services here
|