Business Support

We’re partnering with The Citizen to promote Who’s Open, a free map-based platform to help local businesses spread the word that they’re back open. The platform will be listed on The Citizen homepage and on FCDA’s website. Businesses can advertise specials, website, hours, and photos. Customers can also use the platform to find open restaurants, stores, and services in Fayette County at no charge.

Georgia Business Guidelines

New Guidelines for Businesses – Governor Kemp’s Statewide Executive Order

Reopening FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia Business Operations (Georgia Department of Economic Development)

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law on March 27, 2020, provides funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, modifies the existing Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program and provides immediate loan payment relief for current SBA 7(a) borrowers.

• SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP):  This is a loan for eligible entities to keep their workers on the payroll. A portion of the loan can be forgiven if employees are kept on the payroll. Funds can be used toward payroll, rent mortgage interest, or utilities expenses. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. The PPP program will be available through June 30, 2020.
• SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL):  The EIDL provides for up to $2 million to meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred.  The loans have a maximum 30-year repayment term with the first payments not due for up to 12 months. Loans can be made solely based on credit. The interest rate on EIDLs will be 3.75% for small businesses and 2.75% for non-profits.
• SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance: For those who apply for the EIDL, an advance of up to $10,000 will be provided and does not need to be repaid. Apply for the Loan Advance Link.
• SBA Express Bridge Loans: Enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly.
• SBA Debt Relief: The SBA will automatically pay the principal, interest, and fees of current 7(a), 504, and microloans for a period of six months. The SBA will also automatically pay the principal, interest, and fees of new 7(a), 504, and microloans issued prior to September 27, 2020.

Business Resources

• U.S. Chamber of Commerce: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is marshaling all its resources to help companies stay afloat and keep paychecks flowing to American workers and families; mobilize the business community to combat the pandemic; and help companies prepare for a safe, successful, and sustainable reopening of the economy.
• Georgia Chamber of Commerce: The Georgia Chamber is encouraging businesses and communities to make fact-based decisions and stay informed on COVID-19.
• Metro Atlanta Chamber: MAC has compiled several resources to help metro Atlanta’s businesses as they navigate global health updates, public safety concerns, remote working and telecommuting, data security risks, communication strategies and more.
• Fayette Chamber of Commerce: The Fayette Chamber has launched several new programs to engage and assist members during this time.
• UGA Small Business Development Centers: UGA Small Business Development Centers across the state are open and available to assist small businesses impacted by current circumstances. Virtual consulting and online resources are available. Fayette’s local University of Georgia SBDC is located at Clayton State.
• Atlanta SCORE:  SCORE is a non-profit resource partner of the SBA that teaches workshops, provides free one-one-one mentoring advice, and can help online any time.