Small businesses across the country are confronting extreme economic challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial support at this critical time can make the difference between staying in business or closing permanently, leading to lost income, jobs and economic stability.

Thanks to a $2.5 million investment from Verizon, we are offering grants to help small businesses fill urgent financial gaps until they can resume normal operations or until other more permanent financing becomes available.

Click HERE to read more.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed Friday, March 27 by President Trump. This $2 trillion economic stimulus package included the Pay Check Protection Program, which authorized nearly $350 billion for small businesses and non-profits to meet payroll and keep their companies afloat during this public health emergency. This funding will be available through existing banks and other lending institutions thanks to an important provision led by Pennsylvania Senator Pat Toomey (R) and Virginia Senator Mark Warner (D).

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During this unprecedented situation, the City of Philadelphia continues to explore relief options for businesses of all sizes that are made available through the state and federal government, as well as other sources.
Changes to the Philadelphia COVID-19 Small Business Relief Fund
Due to extraordinary demand and limited resources, the City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC) today announced changes to the Philadelphia COVID-19 Small Business Relief Fund.
All Microenterprise Grant, Small Business Grant, and Small Business Zero-Interest Loan applications received by today, March 30, at 5 p.m. will be reviewed for funding consideration from the Fund that was announced on March 23.
After 5 p.m., on Monday, March 30, applications will only be accepted and reviewed from businesses applying for Microenterprise Grants of $5,000. Applications for Small Business Grants and Zero-Interest Loans will no longer be accepted. Due to limited resources, Microenterprise Grant applications received after March 30 at 5 p.m. will be reviewed as new funds become available.

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In response to the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on the health and well-being of so many, the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick are offering emergency assistance to individuals and families within the Irish community who have been significantly impacted by income disruption.

If you are in a position to donate to families in need at this time, please consider a contribution to the Society. 100% of your donated funds will be dispersed to families in financial need. Click here to donate now.

The first flight carrying much-needed personal protective equipment for workers on the front-line of the COVID-19 response is due to arrive in from China on Sunday.
Newstalk

The Chinese Embassy in Ireland said the Aer Lingus plane will leave Dublin on Saturday morning. It will arrive in Beijing early on Sunday and return to Ireland by Sunday evening.

It comes amid growing concern about the lack of PPE equipment for healthcare workers around the country. Earlier this week, the Health Minister Simon Harris said the country would buy in 13 years’ worth of protective equipment this year as we battle the COVID-19 outbreak.

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