COVID-19 has devastated many small businesses. And while there’s federal, state and private assistance available, understanding the various funding options can be confusing.

Which disaster recovery loans are best for each business? What terms and rates are fair? How can you apply for other COVID-19 grants and help?

We recently spoke with “Tee” Rowe, Chief Executive Officer of America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) on the “Winning on Main Street” podcast. The SBDC works with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to help entrepreneurs with business planning, management and financing techniques. During the pandemic, they’re helping business owners understand which financial relief strategies are smartest.

Joining Tee was Matthew Gourgeot, Director of the Thryv Small Business Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit which empowers, develops and invests in small businesses. The Thryv Foundation recently delivered a first round of relief grants in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

A Sneak Peek

“We are very much a consumer-driven economy. And retail is pretty much the backbone of that. All of the small businesses that you see on main street that rely mostly on foot traffic — whether they’re hardware stores, antique shops, whatever — without people going around, their revenue streams are completely dried up.”

More of what you can expect to hear:

  • What the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) does, and how to find the right lender
  • Understanding the Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA
  • How long it takes to receive funds from these loans

About “Winning on Main Street”

“Winning on Main Street” isn’t your everyday business podcast. We share stories of real small businesses that are winning using today’s modern technology. We talk with relatable, nose-to-the-grindstone entrepreneurs about starting and running their businesses.

“Winning on Main Street” is available wherever you love to listen including Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, Simplecast and Stitcher. Tune in to hear from business owners like you in roofing, healthcare, transportation and more.

About Gordon Henry

Thryv Chief Strategy Officer Gordon Henry hosts “Winning on Main Street”. An expert in the tools small businesses use to market themselves, Gordon asks podcast guests about the challenges they face and technology they use to get ahead. Learn more about Gordon.