Dear Niagara County Business Community,

We want to assure you that we take the health and well-being of our community, clients, and associates very seriously. Like you, we're closely monitoring the quickly developing effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, and to abide by the mandates imposed by Governor Cuomo and health officials, the Niagara County Center for Economic Development is temporarily closed and our staff is working from home.

Please note that our staff is working hard to learn about new programs being unveiled in the wake of this crisis, that can be of assistance to area businesses. We are committed to sharing that information with you as it becomes available.

Our team has been in contact with the U.S. Small Business Administration which is offering small business Economic Disaster Assistance Loans to small businesses and non-profits impacted by COVID-19. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills a small business may have that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. Governor Cuomo has applied to the SBA to make those funds available for New York's small businesses.

These low interest rate working capital loans are designed to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period. For more information on the SBA Economic Disaster Assistance Loan Program, click here, or call the NCCC Small Business Development Center at (716) 210-2515 to speak directly with a Specialist.

Another program for the business community is being offered by Facebook. They are making available $100 million in cash grants and ad credits to eligible small businesses. This funding can assist with operational costs, rent assistance and to help you connect with customers during this difficult time. More information on the program and how to apply can be found here. 

Many of our area businesses are also inquiring about where to find the latest facts regarding COVID-19 and its impact on New York State businesses. This resource from Empire State Development is a useful tool to get answers to the questions that you have.

Continue to look for emails from our office in the coming days and weeks updating you on what assistance is available as we work through this difficult time together.