COVID-19 Update: Statewide Move to Phase 3 March 22

Entire State Will Enter Phase 3 of Recovery Plan on March 22

Gov. Jay Inslee today announced that Healthy Washington: Roadmap to Recovery will be transitioning from a regional approach to a county-by-county evaluation process. The governor also announced a new third phase of the Roadmap, and a return for in-person spectators for professional and high school sports. A full list of industry-level changes for the new phase will be released next week. Additionally, the governor announced that starting Wednesday, March 17, everyone in Tier 2 will be eligible for their COVID vaccine.

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Pierce County Economic Development Department Recognized for 2020 Pandemic Response Programs

Pierce County 2020 CARES Act Economic Stabilization & Recovery Programs were selected to be honored with the Washington Economic Development Association (WEDA) 2021 Economic Development Award for Economic Response & Recovery for innovative efforts to address the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pierce County Businesses Weigh in on Business Assistance Programs

Pierce County businesses say 2020 funding programs were helpful. However, many need more assistance to stay afloat. Survey results will inform our efforts to help businesses in Pierce County access the programs and services they need.

More than 1,700 business leaders representing businesses across all sectors located throughout the county completed the survey. Of businesses surveyed, the majority are small businesses with 77% having 10 or fewer employees. Additionally, 57% have been in business for 11 or more years, 17% for 6-10 years, and 26% for five years or less. Results showed that 51% of those that responded are women-owned businesses, 31% are minority-owned businesses, and 11% are veteran-owned.

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Have You Applied for a PPP Loan?

The current round of forgivable SBA Paycheck Protection Program loans ends March 31! Check out www.SmallBizHelpWA.com to find free technical assistance in multiple languages and a lender if you need one.

You'll also find more info regarding the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVO). Check back for updates on SVO and other funding options.

Working Washington Small Business Grants: Round 4 Opens March 29

Gov. Jay Inslee and the state legislature have approved a new round of small business grants. The $240 million program will focus on small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The Washington State Department of Commerce application portal will open March 29.

SmallBizHelpWA.com New Online Hub for Small Business Recovery

On the SmallBizHelp.com website you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions regarding recovery resources, information on how to find individual technical assistance, how to find a lender, training opportunities and where to find more detailed program information.
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Back to Work Pierce County Resource Guide

As Pierce County businesses continue to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic, we've created a roundup of resources to help your business continue to operate under new guidelines or prepare to re-open.

View the resource guide here.

COVID-19 Business Info Series Conference Calls: Wednesdays at 11:00 AM

Pierce County is open for business. As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve, we’re here to help businesses access the resources and information they need. In partnership with the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County and the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce.

Click here to join using your computer

iPhone one-tap to listen only:
US: +16699006833,,843841095# or +19292056099,,843841095#

Other Telephone to listen only
1 (253) 215-8782

Use Webinar ID: 843 841 095

>>>>>>> Missed a Previous Call? Need next call info? Click here. This series of calls will continue each Monday & Wednesday as long as there is a need.

COVID-19 Rapid Response Team and Business Info Series Questions & Answers: www.rapidresponsesouthsound.com

Pierce County Economic Development

950 Pacific Ave, Suite 720
Tacoma, WA 98402
www.piercecountywa.gov/edd