Thursday, March 26, 2020

Look for the Helpers: Midwest, Kentucky, Virginia, Mississippi; Kentucky Chamber Collaboration: Kentucky businesses donating items to help medical professionals; Des Plaines CHAMBER VIRTUAL COMMUNITY EVENT - "FINDING YOUR HAPPY PLACE" ; Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Social Distancing Is Not Social Isolation; Look for the helpers: Wisconsin ---VALLEY WIDE COVID-19 RESPONSE FUND ESTABLISHED Receives $35,000 seed gift from St. Croix Valley Foundation’s Health and Wellness Fund; Look for the helpers: Mississippi ---Community Development Foundation provides SBA Tutorial for businesses impacted by coronavirus outbreak; Look for the Helpers: Indiana Chamber Offers Statewide Employer Coronavirus Resources; Look for the helpers: Local Chamber officials of Virginia: Community support, positivity on display; Look for the Helpers - #BestChamber practices: Middleton WI Chamber: Resource Page – COVID-19; From the Joliet IL Chamber:; From The Lake Zurich Chamber: Illinois Emergency Small Business Grants and Loans Assistance; Look for the helpers: From the Sauk Valley Chamber: Resources; Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives (WCCE) Letter Urging Congress to Pass CARES Act; Look for the Helpers: Grand Rapids Area Chamber: "Virtual Visits" livestreaming of the butterfly Exhibits; Cabbarus County NC Chamber: Stay-at-Home Proclamation; Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce has named Douglas Wallace as president/CEO; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Partner in the U.S.

 Good morning #ChamberWorld! Look for the Helpers! It's going to be a GREAT day!




"When I was a boy and I would see scary things on the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." - Fred Rogers


Take a moment to relax: Two Puppies Visit a Georgia Aquarium while it is closed

Look for the Helpers: Midwest


The State of Illinois and its community partners are working to ensure the health of our citizens. To do that, we need your help. The spirit of volunteerism and community service are alive and well during COVID-19. Those that are considering volunteering have options, both in-person options as well as virtual efforts. Find out how you can help on Serve.Illinois.gov.

Other ways you can help – donate or volunteer:


Kentucky Chamber Collaboration: Kentucky businesses donating items to help medical professionals


Governor Andy Beshear has called on businesses and manufacturers to donate items they have around warehouses to the State Health Department which will be dispersed to various hospitals and medical facilities across the state.

"Masks, gloves things like hydrogen peroxide, glycerin, things to make hand sanitizer," said Ashli Watts, President and CEO of Kentucky's Chamber of Commerce.

Watts said with so many places taking weeks off to help contain the spread of COVID-19, the items requested by the Governor are often not being used by workers in the coming weeks.

Beshear began asking for the items last week, since then the Chamber of Commerce has received thousands of donations from across Kentucky.

"Thursday, I think it was, we received more than 2,000 respirator masks from Toyota," Watts said.

Watts also got an email from an Owensboro company that told her they can provide glycerin and other items to help make hand sanitizer.

The Chamber will sort through the items and then give them to the State Health Department who will donate them to medical workers. You can find a complete list of items being requested and find out how to send them to the Chamber here. Source: Fox 56 News


Des Plaines CHAMBER VIRTUAL COMMUNITY EVENT - "FINDING YOUR HAPPY PLACE" 

THURSDAY -MARCH 26TH, 11:00 a.m.

FREE EVENT



The Des Plaines Chamber wants to help you connect with each other during this uncertain time. On this video conference you will learn how daily meditation can be effective in improving your mental calmness and inner peace.   This event will be a great way to catch up and support each other safely through our virtual connection.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER AND GET ZOOM CODE

Our Instructor, Regina Verdico, Conscious Connector Yoga & Meditation Practitioner, will be guiding you through a 30 minute meditation. Regina has over 10 years experience as a student and teacher of meditation and yoga.




Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Social Distancing Is Not Social Isolation
During these challenging times, it is important to take care of your mental health and well-being. It is vital now, more than ever, to stay connected with friends, family, and coworkers through digital platforms.

Staying virtually connected displays a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being as we continue to engage in social distancing to lower the spread of COVID-19.






Social isolation and loneliness can be detrimental to physical, mental and cognitive health. Here are simple strategies to practice social distancing in a healthy, productive way.



Look for the helpers: Wisconsin ---VALLEY WIDE COVID-19 RESPONSE FUND ESTABLISHED Receives $35,000 seed gift from St. Croix Valley Foundation’s Health and Wellness Fund


[Hudson, Mar 23, 2020] –A COVID-19 Response Fund for the St. Croix Valley has been established as a collaboration between the St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF), United Way St. Croix Valley (UWSCV) and United Way Washington County East (UWWCE). The Response Fund will support community organizations responding to COVID-19 related needs in Chisago and Washington counties (Minnesota) and Burnett, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix counties (Wisconsin).
This COVID-19 Response Fund has been established to quickly get charitable resources where they are needed most, with an initial focus on the basic needs of those most significantly impacted by this crisis. Because this is a challenging time for local nonprofits, as many do not have the staff to meet growing needs and raise funds, this initial focus for the COVID-19 Response Fund will empower community members to help fill critical gaps to ensure people are getting the services they need.
The COVID-19 Response Fund is designed to help simplify a complex situation and answer the question “How Can I Help?” While donors are encouraged to continue their regular support of area nonprofits, the COVID-19 Response Fund will simplify giving and allow funds to be directed where need is the greatest.

HOW TO GIVE
Donors have many options for contributing:
• Give online at https://www.scvfoundation.org/covid-19
• Checks can be sent to SCVF, 516 2nd St Ste 214, Hudson, WI 54016 (payable to SCVF/COVID-19).
• SCVF donor advised fund holders can recommend a grant to The St. Croix Valley Foundation with "COVID-19 Response Fund" as the grant purpose.
• SCVF can also accept appreciated stock and other assets. Call SCVF for assistance with those donations.

REGIONAL FOCUS OF THE RESPONSE FUND
The COVID-19 Response Fund for the St. Croix Valley will prioritize community-based organizations that serve Chisago and Washington Counties (Minnesota) and Burnett, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix Counties (Wisconsin).

The SCVF has ten affiliated community foundations (Amery, Chisago Lakes, Hudson, Lower St. Croix Valley, New Richmond, Northwest Alliance, Prescott, River Falls, Somerset and Stillwater) throughout the six-county region. If a
donor chooses to designate a gift to one of those areas, SCVF will ensure that dollars are granted to support that community.

100% DISTRIBUTION
In a consolidated effort to help those most affected by COVID-19, the SCVF is waiving all administrative fees for the Response Fund. This means (with the exception of fees charged by banks/credit card companies) that 100% of a donor’s gift will be used to help those most affected by COVID-19 in the St. Croix Valley.

The Response Fund will be administered in multiple phases to address immediate and longer-term needs related to this crisis. During Phase One, priority will be given to organizations working to meet the basic needs of those most significantly impacted by this crisis. Phase One includes proactively identifying grant recipients using input, guidance and research from organizations and others in the community in order to make grant decisions. Future grant phases will be communicated as fundraising continues throughout the crisis, making it possible to quickly adapt to evolving needs.

The COVID-19 Response Fund will make grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, groups fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, or other charitable organizations able to receive tax-deductible contributions, such as schools and other public entities. This Response Fund is not currently able to fund businesses, or nonprofits with 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) status.

The COVID-19 Response Fund is not able to provide grants to individuals. Instead, during the Phase One of grantmaking, staff will work to move resources as quickly as possible to those community-based organizations directly supporting those most affected by this crisis. For information about community resources for individuals and families impacted by COVID-19, contact the United Way at 211.

ORGANIZATIONS SEEKING FUNDING
Eligible organizations should submit a brief online application form at https://www.scvfoundation.org/covid-19.

THE GRANTMAKING PROCESS
Grants from the Response Fund will be recommended by an advisory committee appointed by the SCVF, UWSCV and UWWCE. These appointees could include staff, board members, affiliated community foundation board members and/or other community partners of the SCVF, UWSCV and UWWCE.

A listing of grantees will be published on the websites of St. Croix Valley Foundation www.scvfoundation.org, United Way St. Croix Valley www.unitedwaystcroix.org and United Way Washington County East www.uwwce.org websites.

In the unlikely case that all funds contributed are not able to be distributed to COVID-19 response efforts, any remaining balance will be granted evenly to the UWSCV and UWWCE to support future basic needs grantmaking.


The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a philanthropic organization with the mission of enhancing the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley. Accredited by the Charities Review Council and the Council on Foundations’ National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, the SCVF serves two counties in MN (Washington, Chisago) and 4 counties in WI (Burnett, Polk, St. Croix, Pierce). Ten affiliated community foundations are hosted under the structure and guidance of SCVF. For more
information contact Heather Logelin, President at hlogelin@scvfoundation.org or 715-386-9490.


The United Way St. Croix Valley helps ensure that all people in the St. Croix Valley can lead a healthy life, receive quality education, and experience financial stability. We strengthen Wisconsin communities in St. Croix, Polk and Pierce Counties. We also serves communities in Burnett and Washburn Counties in Northern Wisconsin. 
For more information contact Ann Searles, Executive Director at ann.searles@unitedwaystcroix.org or 715-377-0203.
CALL 211 if you need help locating services.


The United Way of Washington County-East works to unite our community and local resources to give each person the opportunity to build a better life. Areas served include river communities from Afton to Marine on St. Croix, also Woodbury, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, Hugo and Withrow. 
For more information contact Jessica Ryan, Executive Director at jessica.ryan@uwwce.org or 651-439-3838.
CALL 211 if you need help locating services.


Look for the helpers: Mississippi ---Community Development Foundation provides SBA Tutorial for businesses impacted by coronavirus outbreak

The video provides advice and guidance to small businesses in the wake of the coronavirus.

The Community Development Foundation (CDF) provided a video tutorial on how businesses can fill out their Small Business Administration (SBA) financing forms.

The video provides advice and guidance to small businesses in the wake of the coronavirus.

Open this link to watch the video tutorial on Facebook.

Anyone who has questions should contact a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or send an email to:

Go to TupeloTogether.com to find the appropriate forms.

Shane Homan, senior vice president of economic development - shoman@cdfms.org

Matt McCarty, CFO of the Community Development Foundation (CDF) - mmccarty@cdfms.org
Look for the Helpers: Indiana Chamber Offers Statewide Employer Coronavirus Resources

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has created a statewide employer resource page providing information under three umbrellas: Health, Tools You Can Use, and Government and Community Assistance.

The group is also taking specific business questions that will be answered by staff and private sector professionals.

“The Indiana Chamber has been around for nearly 100 years and we’re not going anywhere,” says Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar. “We are here for employers, local chambers and business groups in every county in the state.”

The site – www.indianachamber.com/coronavirus – features guidance on key workplace and legal topics, a coronavirus toolkit and information on unemployment insurance from the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, in addition to providing health and other government resources.

All information on the site, Brinegar stresses, “is for any Indiana business or organization to use – no Indiana Chamber membership is required.

“We will have additional free information opportunities for member companies. An upcoming one includes a free legal webinar on Monday.”


Look for the helpers: Local Chamber officials of Virginia: Community support, positivity on display


Cynthia Schneider remembers well when previous days felt like gloom and doom in the everyday world of business. But she said she better remembers that positivity and community support went a long way to getting through to the other side.
“The way I visualized it, there was a pinhole of light that our business could continue,” Schneider, who is the CEO of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber of Commerce, recalled Tuesday. “Some of the things that I credit to the success of the business I was a part of was that the leader was dogged and wouldn’t go down without a fight. He remained very positive and was looking for what other things we could be doing. Just having that commitment to be successful was really huge to our staff and employees. We knew we didn’t want to go down and we wanted (the business) to continue. We knew if we just sacrificed together that we would see it through to the other side, and we did.”
Businesses and employees in the Northern Shenandoah Valley might be feeling the stresses that have come with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but Schneider and others have said there are positives to gleam from the situation.
Local chambers of commerce as well as many of those in the region are asking those who are able to to continue supporting local businesses as COVID-19 continues to take its toll.
“Right now, we encourage all residents to be extremely supportive of shopping, eating and buying local,” said Sharon Baroncelli, CEO and President of the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce. “When we come out of this pandemic, which we will, it’s essential that we have viable and intact businesses. A community is only as strong as its businesses.”
Both Schneider and Baroncelli commented on how they’ve seen the communities step up already.
“Some of the things I’m seeing amongst our business leaders is we’re coming together to coordinate our efforts,” Schneider said. “The EDA (Economic Development Administration), the Small Business Development Center, the chamber, we’re all coming together to strengthen our efforts so we can guide our businesses and the employees as they’re not only navigating through this but what they’re going to be able to do afterward when we get to recovery.”
Schneider said workforce initiatives around the region have met and will continue to meet to focus on placing displaced workers into new job opportunities as well as helping businesses work through their financial struggles.
But beyond business struggles, a strong sense of community has remained.
For example, according to Schneider, one group has been stocking up on supplies to make deliveries to senior citizens while other groups continue to help provide meals for those in need, including children who are out of school until the end of the academic semester.
“It is so heartening and brings tears to my eyes. What I see socially is that there are people who are willing to help. If someone says I have a need, you see people jumping in and doing whatever it takes,” she said. “I think that’s an important thing to remind people. If you have a need, just ask.
Don’t let yourself become isolated. People are still finding ways to communicate and raise their hand (for help).”
One neighborhood, Schneider noted, was using signs in their windows to let neighbors know they were OK or if they needed something. Another business, she said, has stopped doing its regular business to provide a food pantry.
Supporting each other and supporting local business in the process can go hand in hand, Baroncelli said.
“The Shenandoah County Chamber Board would like to encourage the community to buy a few of your family’s meals from a local eatery; purchase gift cards that may be used later for products or services; buy an item that may be picked up later; and most importantly, if you know a local business owner ask how you can help during this time,” she said.
The Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce provided the following link for residents in the valley, which includes local business deals during the COVID-19 outbreak: http://www.shenandoahcountychamber.com/event-3793647.
The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber and local businesses continue to also update services at: https://bit.ly/3bauF6T.
Chambers across the valley have posted links on their websites and Facebook pages to help residents find options for local businesses, ways to help support each other and resources for finding new work.

“We’re known in our community for being full of hospitality and being people that rally together to take care of each other,” Schneider said. “I think that’s really shining right now.” Read more: Winchester Star


Look for the Helpers - #BestChamber practices: Middleton WI Chamber: Resource Page – COVID-19


The Middleton Chamber of Commerce staff and Board of Directors will continue to stay up-to-date on any resources and relief available to you and will stay on the front lines advocating for our business community by speaking with legislators and those in power to help ensure the future for all our members.

This page is a place you can come to find such information. In addition to this page, we will continue to communicate with you through phone calls, emails, social media posts and our newsletter.

Financial Resources




Community Communication

  • City of Middleton COVID-19 Updates and Closures - The City will continue to provide updates on their website regarding COVID-19 closures and updates.
      • COVID-19: The Household Status Survey 
      • COVID-19: Resident Knowledge and Attitude Survey 
      • The Vote Must Go On - If you are concerned about appearing in person in the clerk’s office for early voting or at the polls on Election day due to the coronavirus outbreak, you have the option of having your ballot mailed to your home.
  • Madison Metro Transit Bus Service continues to adjust its services and is now offering FREE service. 

State Communication

Safer At Home Order - Read Governor Evers Press Release sent out the morning of Tuesday, March 24.  
  • Wisconsin Emergency Response Program - gener8tor is hosting emergency one-week virtual programs for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. These programs will feature daily webinars designed to identify, understand and help small businesses secure resources to withstand the current crisis.


Federal Communication




Business & Education Resources - Free

  • Please visit the Chamber's Calendar of Events to see a listing of free business and education resources. 
  • Wisconsin Emergency Response Program - gener8tor is hosting emergency one-week virtual programs for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. These programs will feature daily webinars designed to identify, understand and help small businesses secure resources to withstand the current crisis.




Family & Mental Health Resources

  • Middleton Public Library - The library is hosting a series of Facebook Live events for Baby and Kids Storytime. Find out more and tune in!
  • Wisconsin Digital Library - Looking for something to read while staying home? Check out Wisconsin's Digital Library on Overdrive! New titles are being added and check out the Lucky Day collection for titles to borrow instantly!
  • Expressively You - Expressively You has released a paint-by-number kids paint kit that will help add some expressive structure and fun.
  • The Little Gym of Middleton is providing some The Little Gym at Home classes for you to keep active and in touch during this time. Check out their Facebook page HERE to tune in.
  • Wisconsin State Parks and Trails - The Department of Natural Resources has waived all fees for Wisconsin State Parks and Trails beginning Tuesday, March 24. Visit there website for current updates HERE.


Restaurants Offering Delivery or Curbside Pickup

Restaurants Offering Delivery or Curbside Pickup


From the Joliet IL Chamber: 



The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) published its first round of implementation guidance pursuant to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).   The guidance addresses critical questions such as:
  • How does an employer count its number of employees to determine coverage?
  • How can small businesses obtain an exemption?
  • How does an employer count hours for part-time employees?
  • How does an employer calculate wages employees are entitled to under the FFCRA?
 The initial WHD guidance is available in three-parts:

Governor Pritzker has announced creation of a $60 million small-business loan fund that will offer low-interest financing for companies with fewer than 50 employees and less than $3 million in revenues. Here are the highlights:
Emergency Small Business Grants and Loans Assistance
Under the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, DCEO is working with partners to launch emergency assistance programs for Illinois small businesses.  These initiatives include:
Hospitality Emergency Grant Program
To help hospitality businesses make ends meet in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, DCEO is launching the Hospitality Emergency Grant Program with $14 million drawn from funds originally budgeted for job training, tourism promotion, and other purposes.  Grant funds are available to support working capital like payroll and rent, as well as job training, retraining, and technology to support shifts in operations, like increased pick-up and delivery. Bars and restaurants that generated between $500K and $1M in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $25,000, and bars and restaurants that generated less than $500K in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $10,000.  Hotels that generated less than $8M in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $50,000.
Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund
DCEO and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) are establishing the Illinois Small Business Emergency Loan Fund to offer small businesses low interest loans of up to $50,000.
Businesses located outside of the City of Chicago with fewer than 50 workers and less than $3 million in revenue in 2019 will be eligible to apply.  Successful applicants will owe nothing for six months and will then begin making fixed payments at a below market interest rate for the remainder of a five-year loan term.
 Click here to view more information with helpful questions and answers.

Attached please find the Illinois Department of Public Health's COVID-19 "Guidelines for Large Businesses" which were released today. These guidelines are for employers in order to protect employees' health and ensure the continuation of essential businesses.

Will County, City of Joliet and the Continuum of Care (CoC) join the United Way of Will County to assist the homeless during the COVID-19 crisis
On Monday, the Continuum of Care, a network of agencies and service providers working to end homelessness, released the Emergency Housing Assistance Plan to provide safe shelter for the homeless and those at risk of losing shelter.

Local shelters are at capacity and some have had to rehouse their clients due to limited staffing and the inability to maintain proper sanitization standards. For the health and safety of their clients and staff, shelters such as Daybreak Center shelter, are transitioning clients to hotels. Similar moves are being made across the U.S. and worldwide as the homeless are especially vulnerable to COVID-19 due to the lack of stable shelter, lack of access to proper hygiene and medical care and basic food supplies.

With the help of local hotels, the Plan can support up to 50 hotel units at this time. Shelter can be provided for up to three weeks in accordance with the current shelter-in-place order. It is estimated that about $100,000 is needed at this time to cover the costs of these hotel rooms. Agencies have secured about half of what is needed by reallocating existing state and federal resources (CDBG/ESG) to this effort. Remaining funds are being solicited through private and corporate funds to make this a public/private effort.

The CoC response system is as follows:
• CoC’s Lead Agency is Will County Center for Community Concerns which will coordinate the effort and manage additional state resources being made available through Department of Human Services and federal emergency response funds to sustain the effort.
• MorningStar Mission shelter will act as the entry point for assistance. MorningStar will screen shelter seekers for COVID-19 symptoms and collect necessary data and then refer the client to a designated hotel location.
• City of Joliet Police Department will transport MorningStar referrals to partnering hotels.
• Veterans Assistance Commission of Will County will coordinate case management needs with other CoC service agencies.
• CoC Leadership Committee Homeless Advocate will provide peer mentorship to those housed through this initiative.
• Local business owner, Jeff Eberhard, and founder of the Guardian Group will coordinate the support services needed for those housed through this effort (food, diapers and personal hygiene supplies) and will be the drop off location for donations at 313 S Larkin Ave, Joliet, IL 60436.
• Northern Illinois Food Bank has ordered 50 Shelf Stable food boxes to be delivered to sheltered homeless at these hotel.
• United Way of Will County has pledged financial support and will assist in soliciting private and corporate donations to a COVID-19 Response Fund that can be used for housing. Donations can be made at https://uwwill.org/will-county-covid-19-response-fund.
• Local agencies in need of volunteers and residents looking for volunteer opportunities, are encouraged to join the United Way of Will County Volunteer Center: https://uwwill.galaxydigital.com.

For more information about this program, contact the CoC interim Coordinator Sarah Kidwell at phone: 815-722-0722 ext 2227 or email skidwell@wcccc.net.

Pace is offering free rides on all Pace fixed route bus and On Demand services to all medical personnel--including doctors, nurses, EMTs, and paramedics--for the duration of the State’s “stay at home” order. To ride free, medical personnel must present a work ID showing that they are employed at a hospital, doctor’s office, medical facility or local fire department. For the latest information on Pace's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, see: http://www.pacebus.com/health/

New online trainings for small businesses impacted by coronavirus – Spanish option
All Illinois small businesses can now apply for low-interest disaster loans to help offset the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The Illinois District Office will host free webinars as long as there is demand covering:
  • Eligibility
  • Use of proceeds
  • Terms
  • Filing requirements
  • Additional small business resources
Click the event date to register.
**Events for Spanish speakers
We are also holding two trainings with the Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
More webinars will be announced soon! Watch your email for future events.

The state has now added an online search function for essential workers seeking child care during the COVID-19 crisis: inccrra.org. This is in addition to the 888-228-1146 hotline.  (I've added this detail to yesterday's message, below.) Note that this system of child care for essential workers is still being assembled across Illinois, and the process will definitely take time to unfold, experiencing challenges along the way.  We're already hearing examples of that, and are sharing them with our partners in child care advocacy as well as Illinois DHS contacts.  But it's encouraging to hear that hundreds of providers already have applied to join this emergency system-in-progress. Much, much further info is available online - not only for parents seeking care, but for providers wishing to reopen as part of that network of care and for qualified volunteers looking to help.

Visit https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/OECD/Pages/For-Communities.aspx.

Stay well,

Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry Staff and Board of Directors

Mike Paone
Vice President
Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry
815.727.5371 main
815.727.5373 direct



From The Lake Zurich Chamber: Illinois Emergency Small Business Grants and Loans Assistance


Under the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, DCEO is working with partners to launch emergency assistance programs for Illinois small businesses. These are state versus federal.

The two initiatives include:

Hospitality Emergency Grant Program
To help hospitality businesses make ends meet in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, DCEO is launching the Hospitality Emergency Grant Program with $14 million drawn from funds originally budgeted for job training, tourism promotion, and other purposes. Grant funds are available to support working capital like payroll and rent, as well as job training, retraining, and technology to support shifts in operations, like increased pick-up and delivery. Bars and restaurants that generated between $500K and $1M in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $25,000, and bars and restaurants that generated less than $500K in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $10,000. Hotels that generated less than $8M in revenue in 2019 are eligible for up to $50,000.

Who is eligible?
Bars and restaurants with a valid license to serve food or liquor and who generated revenues of less than $1 million in 2019. Hotels with a valid license (hotels, motels other lodging establishments) and who generated revenues of less than $8 million in 2019.

What can grant funds be used for?
For bars and restaurants, based on the businesses needs identified in the grant application, funds can be used to support working capital (rent, payroll, and other accounts payable), job training (such as new practices related to take out, delivery and sanitation) and technology enabling new operations as well as other costs to implement that technology.
For hotels, funds can be used as working capital to support the retention of employees.
How do businesses apply?

Businesses can submit an application online here: Landing Page, English Application, Spanish Application. Applications for awards will be accepted until 5:00pm on April 1st, and winners will be chosen via a lottery, therefore, there is no benefit to submitting an application first as long as a valid, complete application is received by the deadline.
How much money is available?
$14 million is available under this program.
·     Bars and restaurants that generated less than $500,000 in annual revenue last year will be eligible for up to $10,000.
·     Bars and restaurants that generated between $500,000 and $1M in annual revenue last year will be eligible for up to $25,000.
·     Hotels that generated less than $8 million in annual revenue last year will be eligible for up to $50,000.

How soon will businesses receive funds?
Accion will notify businesses on April 4th if they have received an award. Accion and DCEO are striving to make funds available to awarded businesses within two days of receiving the necessary bank information from an awarded grantee.


Look for the helpers: From the Sauk Valley Chamber: Resources

Sauk Valley Area Chamber Offers Resources and Information

We are experiencing a time like none other in history. It seems there is so much we are unsure of, but one thing we do know we can do is support each other.  The chamber’s role is to support our business community and organizations The SVACC has developed two resources for area businesses and community members.   There is now a comprehensive website for COVID 19 resources specifically : https://www.saukvalleyareachamber.com/covid-19-resources.

They have also developed a comprehensive face book page for sterling and rock falls businesses to add what they are doing: Sauk Valley Updates- Resources for Sterling and Rock Falls.  Business owners and organizations are asked to join this Facebook group and add their hours, specials, information, etc.



The SVACC is open and responding to phone calls and emails to make sure that our chamber members and community members needs are met.  Please call 815-625-2400 or email knoble@saukvalleyareachamber.com
Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives (WCCE) Letter Urging Congress to Pass CARES Act



Wisconsin Congressional Delegation:
Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives (WCCE), on behalf of our thousands of member employers from every sector and every corner of Wisconsin, urge your immediate support of a Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that focuses solely on keeping Wisconsin’s economy strong by protecting families and employers. This is a time when families and businesses need immediate bipartisan action out of our elected officials, not grandstanding on ideological policies that have nothing to do with economic relief for the crisis at hand.
The CARES Act is aimed at helping families weather the crisis, while also making sure that businesses survive and are able to keep people employed during and after this health crisis. Without action, our economy faces catastrophe as personal and business income dries up.
The CARES Act offers assistance on business liquidity by pausing payroll taxes, increases help available through the Small Business Administration, sends needed cash to families, and more. Unfortunately this much needed relief has been derailed by partisan attempts at including political pork and unrelated policy items. Facing a possible depression, this is simply not the time for political games. Wisconsin families and employers need your support on the CARES Act, now.
Additionally, Chambers of Commerce have been on the front line of this crisis, communicating with employers across the country and in Wisconsin about this fast moving pandemic and public policy response to it. Chambers also play a vital role as coordinator between conduits for business relief and the business community. It is important to remember Chambers are businesses and if they shut down the United States’ and Wisconsin’s businesses communities will be worse off. For that reason we respectfully request that the provisions providing relief to 501(c)(6) businesses be reinserted into the CARES Act.
Please help move legislation forward immediately that focuses on the economic crisis at hand, free from pork and unrelated policy items.
Sincerely,
Kurt R. Bauer,
President/CEO, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce
List of Local Chambers
Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce
Bayfield Chamber & Visitor Bureau
Burlington Area Chamber of Commerce
Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce
Clintonville Area Chamber of Commerce
DeForest Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce
Delafield Chamber of Commerce
Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce
Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce
Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center, Inc.
Envision Greater Fond du Lac, Inc.
Fort Atkinson Chamber of Commerce
Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce
Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce
Greater Green Bay Chamber
Greater Mauston Area Chamber of Commerce
Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce
Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce
Hartland Chamber of Commerce
Heart of the Valley Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce
Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce
Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce
Lodi and Lake Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce
Marinette Menominee Area Chamber of Commerce
Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Menomonee Falls Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce
Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce
Merrill Chamber of Commerce
Middleton Chamber of Commerce
Milton Area Chamber of Commerce
Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce
Monona East Side Business Alliance
Monroe Chamber of Commerce
Mosinee Area Chamber of Commerce
Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
New Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce
Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce
Park Falls Area Chamber of Commerce
Portage Area Chamber of Commerce
Portage County Business Council
Prairie du Chien Area Chamber of Commerce
Pulaski Area Chamber of Commerce
Racine Area Manufacturers and Commerce
Rice Lake Area Chamber of Commerce
River Falls Chamber of Commerce
Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce
Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce
Spring Green Area Chamber of Commerce
St. Germain Area Chamber of Commerce
Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce
Superior-Douglas County Area Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber of Manitowoc County
Tomah Chamber & Visitors Center
Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce
Waunakee Area Chamber of Commerce
Waukesha County Business Alliance


 Look for the Helpers: Grand Rapids Area Chamber: "Virtual Visits" livestreaming of the butterfly Exhibits

Although temporarily closed to the public, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is still working to bring joy to the community. Their staff is bringing the beauty of the facility into homes, with "virtual visits," livestreams of the butterfly exhibit, and daily story time with staff. Follow along on their Facebook page. 



Cabbarus County NC Chamber: Stay-at-Home Proclamation

Dear members,

This afternoon, Cabarrus County, Concord, Kannapolis, Harrisburg, Midland and Mount Pleasant declared a joint Emergency Stay-at-Home Proclamation beginning Thursday, March 26 at 5:00 p.m. There is a list of “essential businesses” toward the end of the proclamation, so you can check to see if your business is included.

Click here to read the proclamation

We will continue to update you as we receive information. Please join us Thursday morning for our virtual COVID-19 Business Update at 10 a.m. To participate as an attendee on Zoom, click here:  https://zoom.us/j/460529451  We are also hoping to live stream the event on our Facebook page, but in the event of technical difficulties we will post the recording as soon as it is available. 
We appreciate your support and will continue to work through all of these changes with you.

Best regards,
Barbi Jones
Executive Director
The Chamber
704-490-4978


Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce has named Douglas Wallace as president/CEO


The Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce has named Douglas Wallace as president/CEO, effective on March 16th.
Wallace replaces Brett Hyble, who had led the chamber since 2013, left for a position with Great Lakes Bay Michigan Works and said last month he'd be leaving in late October. Teresa Rupert, a chamber board member, had served as interim president and CEO while the search was conducted.
According to a press release from Central Michigan University Research Corporation, the Chamber board of directors approved this decision on Feb. 24th.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and our members, we are pleased to welcome Wallace to serve as the President/CEO,” Erik Rodriguez, public relations manager of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and chair of the Board of Directors, said. “Wallace has great history with the business community and with chamber organizations. He will bring best practices to elevate the Mt. Pleasant Chamber into the future.”
Wallace previously served as the vice president of Membership Development for the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce. The chamber consisted of over 730 members, of which Wallace has retention rates of 89%. In this position he managed sales for members, social media and events.
“I am excited to join the community, some of my family originated from Mt. Pleasant and I have always had a love for the area,” Wallace said. “I look forward to engaging with the businesses in the Central Michigan area.” Read more: Morning Sun


Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Partner in the U.S.


Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal
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