This compilation is a summary for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional or legal advice. Please contact the relevant goverment agencies or other professionals if you have questions or concerns about your particular situation.

Small Business Assistance
Congress and/or the state and counties are in the process of putting together packages for small business assistance during this crisis. As relief opportunities become available, we will post here.
 
Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant
Governor Inslee announced a new Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant program to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Up to $5 million in funds are provided through the Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and administered by the State Department of Commerce. The grant program will provide a limited number of businesses in Washington’s 39 counties with a grant up to $10,000.
 
What the grant can be used for:
  • Grant funds can used for operational expenses including rent, supplies/inventory, utility bills, etc. as well as consulting, marketing, and training.
  • Payroll cannot be reimbursed via Working Washington grant program. Please direct all payroll needs to Employment Security Department.
  • The following expenses are not eligible: capitalized equipment, travel, office equipment, and computer software.
Eligibility
  • Applicants should have been in business for at least one year.
  • Businesses with up to 10 full-time employees (FTEs) may apply for a one-time grant of up to $10,000.
  • Funding is not meant to help launch a business, but to support existing businesses who are specifically affected by the COVID-19 crisis and are vital members of their local community.
  • Applicants are eligible to receive one Working Washington Grant award during the current budget cycle, which ends on 06/30/2021.
Information on qualifying and applying can be found here: http://startup.choosewashingtonstate.com/covid-grants/

City of Seattle B&O Tax Deferment Information
Effective immediately, the City of Seattle Department of Finance and Administrative Services (FAS) will defer business and occupation (B&O) tax collections for businesses that have annual taxable incomes of $5 million or less and that pay city taxes quarterly. This will allow small business owners increased flexibility during a period of financial duress caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. If you have questions, please call (206) 684-8484 or email tax@seattle.gov

Pierce County
Pierce County small businesses who have experienced significant economic injury as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic may apply for this loan program if they meet the certain criteria. The Pierce County Council expanded this loan program on April 21, 2020 to include employers with up to 20 employees for businesses located anywhere in Pierce County, including incorporated cities. 
Learn more and apply here:   https://www.co.pierce.wa.us/6770/Emergency-Small-Business-Relief-Loan-Pro

Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
The Economic Injury Disaster Advance program has been in place at the Small Business Administration; however, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, small business owners in all U.S. states, Washington D.C., and territories are eligible to apply in a streamlined way. This advance will provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. Funds will be made available within three days of a successful application. This loan advance will not have to be repaid. Click here to find out more information about it and how to apply if you are eligible.

Paycheck Protection Program
The Paycheck Protection Program is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on payroll by providing each small business a loan up to $10 million for payroll and certain other expenses. If all employees are kept on payroll for eight weeks, SBA will forgive the portion of the loans used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. Up to 100% of the loan is forgivable. Click here for more information.