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In response to COVID-19 and the overwhelming number of business closures across Pennsylvania and the United States, the Pocono Mountains Economic Development Corporation is dedicated to maintaining an updated list of information to help our local businesses find what they need quickly and easily.
MCSBGL is funded by a $250,000 Local Share Account (LSA) Grant that makes up to $50,000 available to small businesses in Monroe County who are looking to expand and create/retain jobs. The funds can be used for acquisition, construction, infrastructure/site preparation, machinery/equipment, working capital and related costs including but not limited to professional services, engineering, inspections, fees, insurance, environmental assessment, legal costs and closing costs.
Click here for the MCSBGL Program Guidelines
Click here for the MCSBGL Program Application
The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s website has helpful resources and guidance for businesses in the yellow phase, including:
The Monroe County Commissioners approved funding for a new program to assist Monroe County small businesses during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here for a Fact Sheet.
THE APPLICATION PERIOD FOR THIS PROGRAM HAS CLOSED. WE DO NOT EXPECT IT TO REOPEN AT THIS TIME. CHECK BACK TO THIS SITE FOR UPDATES.
Contact Dennis Noonan at PMEDC with questions at (570) 839-1992 ext. 3 or email him at dnoonan@pmedc.com
Unemployment compensation benefits related to COVID-19
File a claim for Pandemic Unemployment Compensation here: https://www.uc.pa.gov/unemployment-benefits/file/Pages/Filing-for-PUA.aspx
PUA Claimants can call this dedicated line with questions or problems with their claims: 1-855-284-8545
Resources for Life-Sustaining Businesses
On March 19, Gov. Wolf issued an order to close all non-life sustaining businesses in order to slow the spread of the virus and protect the public and businesses.
Tax Credits for Corona Virus Paid Leave
Small and midsize employers may begin using two new refundable payroll tax credits to obtain reimbursement for the costs of providing corona virus related leave to their employees
NEPA Alliance Business Loan Assistance
The Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance is committed to working with regional small businesses and non-profits during the COVID-19 crisis. NEPA Alliance will continue to evaluate all available options to best serve the Northeastern Pennsylvania business community.
PA Department of Labor and Industry Information for PA Employees Impacted by COVID-19
If you are employed in Pennsylvania and are unable to work because of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), you may be eligible for Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation benefits.
Pennsylvania Extends Personal Income Tax Return Filing Deadline to July 15, 2020
If you are a small business affected by the COVID-19 crisis, here is a Small Business Owner’s Guide to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) just passed by Congress.
Important Update – Paycheck Protection Program – April 27, 2020 – Program Has Re-Opened
The Paycheck Protection Progam is an SBA loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.
SBA COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan
SBA is collecting the requested information in order to make a loan under SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program to the qualified entities listed in this application that are impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The information will be used in determining whether the applicant is eligible for an economic injury loan. If you do not submit all the information requested, your loan cannot be fully processed.
Facebook Small Business Grants Program
Facebook is offering $100M in cash grants and ad credits to help small businesses.
Families First Coronavirus Response Act
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA or Act) requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19.
Treasury, IRS and US Dept. of Labor plan to implement Coronavirus-related paid leave for workers and tax credits for small and midsize businesses