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COVID-19 Business Impacts
State Extends Current Regional Stay-at-Home Restrictions
On January 9, 2021, due to a severe decrease in ICU capacity across the Bay Area and other regions, the State of California extended its current Shelter-in-Place Order for the region until further notice. With current ICU capacity at just three-percent, and COVID cases on the rise, the State could not estimate how long the current Order will last.
Starting on Monday, December 7, at 12:01 a.m., Alameda County, along with other Bay Area jurisdictions, adopted the State of California's Regional Stay-at-Home framework.
The area Public Health Officers believe that this early action is needed because the number of new cases is rising rapidly in the region, and more cases are expected as a result of Thanksgiving gatherings. Hospitalizations are already matching the peak seen during the summer and there is a high risk of exhausting the system's capacity. This is a regional issue because hospitals provide overflow capacity for neighboring jurisdictions, and our neighboring counties have seen rapid increases in the past two weeks.
During this time, all private gatherings and all non-essential travel will be prohibited, and the following activities are restricted.
As of December 7, the following sectors must close:
- Indoor playgrounds
- Indoor recreational facilities - Except indoor pools allowed to be open for only drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors.
- Hair salons and barbershops
- Personal care services
- Museums, zoos, and aquariums
- Wineries
- Bars, breweries, and distilleries
- Family entertainment facilities
- Cardrooms and satellite wagering
- Limited services (i.e. dog groomers and walkers, shoe repair, etc.) - Except for curbside pickup and drop-off only. Note: limited services businesses identified as Critical Infrastructure sectors are allowed to remain open per the State of California (i.e. laundromats, dry cleaners, auto repair shops, car washes, landscapers, contractors, etc.)
- Amusement parks
- Offices - Remote work, only, except for critical infrastructure sectors where remote working is not possible.
The following sectors will have additional modifications in addition to 100% masking and physical distancing:
- Grocery stores - Permitted indoors at 35% capacity (based on fire department occupancy limits) with strict entrance metering. Eating or drinking is prohibited in stores, and masks are required to be worn. Additionally, special hours for seniors and those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems is strongly encouraged.
- Gyms, Fitness Centers, Non-Contact Fitness Classes, Dance Studios & Other Exercise Facilities - Outdoor operations only; extended physical distancing of 8 feet, and without shared equipment.
- Hotels and lodging - Open for critical infrastructure support only.
- (Revised) Outdoor playgrounds - with additional modifications including no mixing of households; no food or drink; wash or sanitize hands before and after use; and 30 minute limit per visit per day when others are present.
- Outdoor recreational facilities - Outdoor operations only so long as there is no mixing of households; no food, drink, or alcohol sales permitted. Additionally, overnight stays at campgrounds are prohibited.
- Places of worship and political expression - Outdoors, only; limited to 100 people for places of worship.
- Restaurants - Take-out and delivery, only.
- Retail and shopping centers - Permitted indoors at 20% capacity with entrance metering. Eating or drinking is prohibited in stores, and masks are required to be worn. Additionally, special hours for seniors and those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems is strongly encouraged.
The following sectors are allowed to remain open when a remote option is not possible with appropriate infectious disease preventative measures including 100%
masking and physical distancing:
- Critical infrastructure
- K-12 Schools - Only schools that are currently offering in-person learning may continue to be open.
- Non-urgent medical and dental care - Open, with modifications.
- Child care and pre-K - Open, with modifications.
The list of sectors/activities is also available on the Alameda County Public Health Department's webpage.
Read Health Order 20-21 (issued 12/6/2020).
Read the press release (issued 12/4/2020).
* All businesses allowed to reopen under the Alameda County Shelter-in-Place Order must complete the Site-Specific Protocol Plan and implement the applicable measures. See current Health Order for specific details and definitions. For more information about the current local Health Order, go to the "Health Order" tab (above). Employers seeking technical assistance with the County Health Orders, including guidance on what activities are currently allowed, should email the ACPHD.
ACPHD urges everyone to avoid gathering with people outside of one's household,
limit activities and continue to wear masks or other face coverings when outside of the home.
We’re Here for You
The City of Dublin appreciates our business community and remains committed to being your source for reliable and accessible information and resources. The City continues to maintain a COVID-19 webpage and this COVID-19 Business Impacts webpage to provide you with up-to-date information and resources.
The City is also on social media. Follow us on Twitter at @dublinpio and Facebook at @cityofdublinca.
The Economic Development Division team is available via email or by calling 925-833-6650. Language assistance is available over the phone by request.
COVID-19 Business Resource Guide
The City of Dublin has published a Business Resource Guide (last updated 9/3/2020) for our local businesses who have been impacted by COVID-19. This Guide provides information on federal, state and local financial assistance as well as support programs, online tools, webinars, and private resources available to businesses.
Dublin Business Briefs
Below is a list of the most recent emailed Special COVID-19 Notices to Businesses. For the archive of Special COVID-19 Dublin Business Briefs sent since March, see the archives page.
1/14/2021: Special Notice #79
1/11/2021: Special Notice #78
1/7/2021: Special Notice #77
12/28/2020: Special Notice #76
12/23/2020: Special Notice #75
Didn’t receive these emailed notices? If you are a business in Dublin and did not receive the notices listed above via email, please sign-up using this online form or send us an email and request to be added to the Dublin Business Brief (formerly called the Dublin Business News Update) distribution list.
Beware of Scams
Please report scams to Dublin Police Services at 925-833-6670. For general information about scams, read SBA’s Beware of Scams and FEMA’s Coronavirus Rumor Control.
Business Help is Available
Not sure where to start? Read the "Small Business Resiliency Guide" from America’s SBDC (released 4/10/2020). Download the guide and workbooks from their website.
You can also download the COVID-19 Small Business Survival Guide (PDF; last updated 3/26/2020) from California SBDC.
Trusted Partners Are Available to Help You
You are encouraged to work with an advisor from a trusted partner such as America’s SBDC network, East Bay SCORE, AnewAmerica Womens Business Center, Renaissance’s Women’s Business Center or Veterans Business Outreach Center to help you with your SBA disaster loan application as incomplete applications cannot be fully processed, and will increase the time it takes for the loan determination to be made. These services are free and language assistance is available upon request.
Alameda County Small Business Development Center (ACSBDC) is available to assist Alameda County businesses with the disaster loan application process. Current SBDC clients should contact their advisor. Non-SBDC clients will need to complete an online application for services. Go to the ACSBDC website, then click the red “apply now” button at the top of the page to begin the application process.
You can also call Northern California Small Business Development Center Network at 833-ASK-SBDC (833-275-7232) or reach them via email.
SBA Offers Disaster Loan Assistance to California Small Businesses
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering Economic Injury Disaster Loans, Economic Injury Disaster Loan Advance ($10,000 Grant), Express Bridge Loans and Debt Relief to eligible small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19:
- Read about SBA Guidance and Loan Resources.
- For SBA materials in languages other than English, visit the SBA Recovery Information webpage.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
The SBA resumed accepting applications for EIDL loans for all eligible businesses on June 15, 2020. EIDL applications that were submitted before the portal stopped accepting new applications (April 15 to June 14, 2020) will continue to be processed on a first come, first served basis.
For more information about the SBA’s process including the documentation required to process applications and make disaster loan decisions, download the Guide to COVID-19 Loans and Forms from America’s SBDC.
To apply for an EIDL or the EIDL Advance, visit the SBA’s EIDL Application Portal.
Applied for EIDL Prior to March 30? If you applied for an EIDL loan prior to March 30, you should submit another EIDL application. If your application number starts with a “1” or a “2” it means that you applied through the old system. SBA has requested all of those applicants to apply again through the new streamlined system on the SBA website as using the new portal will speed up the processing of your application. If you application number starts with a “3” then SBA has received your application and it is in the queue to be processed.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance - Ended July 11, 2020
On July 11, 2020, SBA announced the conclusion of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance program. Having allocated the full $20 billion that was appropriated by Congress for the Advance program, SBA has discontinued making EIDL Advances to new applicants.
The EIDL Advance program provided up to $10,000 quickly to cover paid sick leave to employees, maintaining payroll, meeting increased costs to obtain materials, making rent or mortgage payments, and fixed debts that cannot be met due to revenue losses. This amount does not need to be repaid. Requesting the advance is available as part of the EIDL application. The amount of the advance is calculated based on the number of pre-disaster employees: $1,000 per employee up to $10,000.
Note: EIDL loan applications are still being processed and as of July 11, the EIDL program continues to have funds available. See above for details.
How to Apply for Express Bridge Loans and SBA Debt Relief
The Express Bridge Loan program enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly while waiting for decision and disbursement of an EIDL. To apply for an Express Bridge Loan or apply for Debt Relief on an existing SBA loan, please contact your lender directly.
For more information, download the Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program Guide.
Paycheck Protection Program - Closed
August 9, 2020 UPDATE: The Paycheck Protection Program is closed and the SBA is not accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from lenders.
The U.S. Treasury Department is the lead on this program which provides capital to cover the cost of retaining employees; Amount is 250% of average monthly payroll from the past year, up to $10 million. Businesses will apply through a existing SBA 7(a) lender or participating federally-insured financial institution. The deadline for your lender to submit your application to the SBA was August 8, 2020.
- Learn more about the Paycheck Protection Program.
- Download the revised sample application form (PDF, revised 6/12/2020). Your lender may have a different form - this sample is just for your reference.
- Look up a list of participating lenders or the u the SBA’s Lender Match tool.
CARES Act Small Business Tax Provisions
This program allows eligible businesses to defer paying the employer portion of certain payroll taxes through the end of 2020 and provides a refundable payroll tax credit for 50 percent of wages paid by eligible employers to certain employees. There is no application form; Eligible employers report total qualified wages and related health insurance costs for each quarter on their quarterly employment tax returns or Form 941 beginning with the second quarter.
Deferral of Payment of Employer Payroll Taxes: Employers can defer the deposit and payment of the employer’s share of Social Security tax that would otherwise be required to be made during the period beginning on March 27, 2020 and ending December 31, 2020. Self employed individuals may defer the payment of 50% of the Social Security tax on net earnings from self-employment income imposed under section 1401(a) of the IRS Tax Code.
The Flexibility Act changed some provisions to allow businesses that received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to be eligible to defer deposit and payment of the employer’s share of Social Security tax until Dec. 31, 2020, regardless if the PPP loan is forgiven.
For more details, visit this IRS webpage.
Employee Retention Credit: The Employer Retention Credit program provides a refundable payroll tax credit for 50 percent of wages paid by eligible employers to certain employees. There is no application form; Eligible employers report total qualified wages and related health insurance costs for each quarter on their quarterly employment tax returns or Form 941 beginning with the second quarter. Note: The Employer Retention Credit is not available to employers who received assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program. For more details, visit this IRS webpage.
For FAQs on these tax provisions, visit the IRS website.
Families First Coronavirus Response Act Tax Credit
If your business is required under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) to pay "qualified sick leave wages" and/or "qualified family leave wages" and you have fewer than 500 employees, you may be entitled to claim a federal tax credit for paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for reasons related to COVID-19. For more about FFCRA paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave entitlements, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.
City of Dublin COVID-19 Relief
Temporary Use Permit for Restaurants, Retail & Fitness Establishments to Temporarily
Utilize Outdoor Spaces
The Dublin City Council has authorized the temporary waiver of certain Zoning Ordinance requirements to facilitate business operations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. This action was taken in an effort to assist restaurants, retail, fitness and other businesses in need of outdoor space that are experiencing, and will continue to experience, severe negative economic impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic including distancing requirements established by Health Orders for the safety of customers, workers and the general public. Eligible businesses may file a request for a waiver with the Planning Division related to outdoor seating for restaurants, temporary outdoor display of merchandise for retail businesses, or outdoor fitness classes for fitness gyms/studios. There is no fee associated with this waiver which can be submitted via email and will be reviewed within within two business days.
Download the COVID-19 Relief Temporary Use Permit Application.
NEW - Dublin Small Business Recovery Boost Grant Program 
Small Businesses in Dublin may be eligible to apply for a $10,000 grant through the City’s new Recovery Boost Grant Program to help local businesses that have had to shift or are shifting their operations to adhere with COVID health & safety guidelines.
The City will begin accepting online applications on Friday, December 18, 2020 at 8:00 a.m., and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the Recovery Grant Program webpage for full details.
City of Dublin Small Business Emergency Microloan Program - Closed
To help mitigate the negative impact of COVID-19 on Dublin small businesses, the City Council established a Small Business Emergency Microloan Program to offer financial assistance to local small businesses, with a focus on retaining local restaurants and retailers in Dublin. The program provides zero-interest, unsecured, short-term loans of up to $10,000 to eligible Dublin small businesses and is intended to augment state and federal financial assistance programs.
The City is no longer accepting applications for this program. For more details, visit the City of Dublin’s Emergency Microloan webpage.
State, County and Other Resources
Go to the "Quick Links" tab at the top of this page for additional resources and assistance.
State Extends Current Regional Stay-at-Home Restrictions
On January 9, 2021, due to a severe decrease in ICU capacity across the Bay Area and other regions, the State of California extended its current Shelter-in-Place Order for the region until further notice. With current ICU capacity at just three-percent, and COVID cases on the rise, the State could not estimate how long the current Order will last.
Starting on Monday, December 7, at 12:01 a.m., Alameda County, along with other Bay Area jurisdictions, adopted the State of California's Regional Stay-at-Home framework.
The area Public Health Officers believe that this early action is needed because the number of new cases is rising rapidly in the region, and more cases are expected as a result of Thanksgiving gatherings. Hospitalizations are already matching the peak seen during the summer and there is a high risk of exhausting the system's capacity. This is a regional issue because hospitals provide overflow capacity for neighboring jurisdictions, and our neighboring counties have seen rapid increases in the past two weeks.
During this time, all private gatherings and all non-essential travel will be prohibited, and the following activities are restricted.
As of December 7, the following sectors must close:
- Indoor playgrounds
- Indoor recreational facilities - Except indoor pools allowed to be open for only drowning prevention classes, including swim lessons with certified instructors.
- Hair salons and barbershops
- Personal care services
- Museums, zoos, and aquariums
- Wineries
- Bars, breweries, and distilleries
- Family entertainment facilities
- Cardrooms and satellite wagering
- Limited services (i.e. dog groomers and walkers, shoe repair, etc.) - Except for curbside pickup and drop-off only. Note: limited services businesses identified as Critical Infrastructure sectors are allowed to remain open per the State of California (i.e. laundromats, dry cleaners, auto repair shops, car washes, landscapers, contractors, etc.)
- Amusement parks
- Offices - Remote work, only, except for critical infrastructure sectors where remote working is not possible.
The following sectors will have additional modifications in addition to 100% masking and physical distancing:
- Grocery stores - Permitted indoors at 35% capacity (based on fire department occupancy limits) with strict entrance metering. Eating or drinking is prohibited in stores, and masks are required to be worn. Additionally, special hours for seniors and those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems is strongly encouraged.
- Gyms, Fitness Centers, Non-Contact Fitness Classes, Dance Studios & Other Exercise Facilities - Outdoor operations only; extended physical distancing of 8 feet, and without shared equipment.
- Hotels and lodging - Open for critical infrastructure support only.
- (Revised) Outdoor playgrounds - with additional modifications including no mixing of households; no food or drink; wash or sanitize hands before and after use; and 30 minute limit per visit per day when others are present.
- Outdoor recreational facilities - Outdoor operations, only; no food, drink, or alcohol sales permitted. Additionally, overnight stays at campgrounds are prohibited.
- Places of worship and political expression - Outdoors, only; limited to 100 people for places of worship.
- Restaurants - Take-out and delivery, only.
- Retail and shopping centers - Permitted indoors at 20% capacity with entrance metering. Eating or drinking is prohibited in stores, and masks are required to be worn. Additionally, special hours for seniors and those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems is strongly encouraged.
The following sectors are allowed to remain open when a remote option is not possible with appropriate infectious disease preventative measures including 100%
masking and physical distancing:
- Critical infrastructure
- K-12 Schools - Only schools that are currently offering in-person learning may continue to be open.
- Non-urgent medical and dental care - Open, with modifications.
- Child care and pre-K - Open, with modifications.
The list of sectors/activities is also available on the Alameda County Public Health Department's webpage.
Read Health Order 20-21 (issued 12/6/2020).
Read the press release (issued 12/4/2020).
* All businesses allowed to reopen under the Alameda County Shelter-in-Place Order must complete the Site-Specific Protocol Plan and implement the applicable measures. Employers seeking technical assistance should email the ACPHD.
Curfew Imposed by State of California to Help Curb COVID-19 - Effective November 21, 2020
With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases throughout California, the State's Acting Public Health Director issued a limited Stay at Home Order and has issued a curfew on non-essential businesses and personal gatherings between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. for all communities that are in the Purple Tier of the State's Blueprint for a Safer Economy. Alameda County is currently in the Purple Tier.
Non-essential businesses and personal gatherings are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. beginning Saturday, November 21, 2020.
This Order does not prevent restaurants from operating after 10 p.m. for takeout and does not prevent people from going to the grocery store or pharmacy for essential needs, etc. Also, people conducting essential business during those hours or who are traveling to and from work are exempt.
The curfew will be in effect from Saturday, November 21, at 10:00 p.m., through Monday, December 21, at 5:00 a.m. and may be extended or revised by the State as needed.
Download the Alameda County Public Health Department's press release.
Site-Specific Protocol Plan:
Businesses allowed to reopen under the Alameda County Shelter-in-Place Order must complete the Site-Specific Protocol Plan and implement the applicable measures. (See current Health Order for specific details and definitions.) Physical distancing, face coverings, and Site-Specific Protection Plans apply for all settings.
Resources for businesses are available on the Alameda County Public Health Department website
Employers seeking technical assistance with the County Health Orders, including guidance on what activities are currently allowed and guidance on re-opening should email the ACPHD.
Visit the State's website for industry guidance per the Blueprint for a Safer Economy (available in multiple languages).
Restaurants offering outdoor dining should download the Revised Restaurant Operating Procedures: English | Spanish | Chinese (updated 11/17/2020).
Building Occupancy:
To determine the allowed occupancy of your commercial space, look to see if you have a "maximum occupancy" sign (often near the main entry). This is the original maximum occupancy. Then, multiply the original occupancy by the COVID capacity limit for your industry.
If you need to calculate your original occupancy, use this formula:
Retail square footage divided by 60 equals the original occupancy load.
RETAIL EXAMPLE for 10,000 square foot space at 25% capacity limit:
10,000/60 = 166.7 (round to 167 occupants)
167 x 25% = 41.7 (round to 42 occupants)
In this example, a retail space limited to 25% capacity would be allowed to have 42 occupants indoors.
Required Face Coverings or Masks for Workers and Customers - Revised 7/15/2020
The Health Officer Order #20-13 (revised 7/15/20) replaces the prior Order and requires all members of the public to wear face coverings at all times when within 30 feet of people outside their household - including while engaged in physical activities (walking, running, biking, etc.). Businesses must also take reasonable measures, such as posting signs, to remind visitors about wearing a mask, and not serve customers who do not observe the Order. The Order provides exceptions for children under age 12, certain health-related reasons, or if wearing a face covering would create a safety risk on the job. Read the full Order for more details.
Note: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has additional information on the Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19:
English | Spanish | Chinese | Vietnamese | Korean | Additional Languages
Minimum Basic Operations for Non-Essential Businesses
All businesses may continue operations consisting exclusively of owners, employees, volunteers, or contractors performing activities at their own residences (i.e., working from home).
Provided that owners, employees, and contractors comply with Social Distancing Requirements (as defined in the Order) to the extent possible, while carrying out such operations, Non-Essential Businesses may perform the following Minimum Basic Operations:
- The minimum necessary activities to maintain and protect the value of the business’s inventory and facilities; ensure security, safety, and sanitation; process payroll and employee benefits; provide for the delivery of existing inventory directly to residences or businesses; and related functions. (For clarity, this section does not permit businesses to provide curbside pickup to customers.)
- The minimum necessary activities to facilitate owners, employees, and contractors of the business being able to continue to work remotely from their residences, and to ensure that the business can deliver its service remotely.
Public Health Requirements for Licensed Facilities and Other Agencies
The Health Officer Order #20-07 (issued April 13, 2020) remains in effect for “Licensed Facilities and Other Agencies” in Alameda County. The requirements apply to all long-term care facilities, licensed intermediate care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, home health and hospice agencies/organizations, chronic dialysis centers, and other congregate living settings and agencies. The Order requires their staff, contractors and any essential visitors entering those sites to comply with guidance to control the spread of COVID-19.
Beware of Scams
For general information about scams, read SBA’s Beware of Scams and FEMA’s Coronavirus Rumor Control.
Resources for Dublin Businesses
The State of California has created a comprehensive website with COVID-19 information for the general public and employers.
As California reopens, every business will need to create a safer, low-risk environment. Read the State industry-specific guidance then check for Alameda County specific industry guidance on the County Variance page.
GO-Biz (Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development) provides multiple state resources for California businesses.
Alameda County Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service which can provide information about pro bono legal programs in the area and can match clients with attorneys for a $40 nonrefundable referral fee. Depending on income and the type of legal assistance needed, some clients may be eligible for reduced rates.
Alameda County CARES Grant Program is a grant opportunity for small businesses located in incorporated cities within Alameda County to receive a one-time grant of up to $5,000. Alameda County is utilizing $5 million in CARES Act funds for this program. The grant application process is being administered by the East Bay Economic Development Alliance. Funds are limited and will be awarded to eligible businesses by a lottery system. Visit their website for full details on eligibility, use of funds, exclusions, etc. and to apply. Deadline to apply is November 30, 2020.
Alameda County Department of Environmental Health provides COVID-19 guidance for food facilities as well as links to guidance for cleaning and disinfection.
Alameda County District One Small Business Grant (DOSBG) Program provides a one-time grant of $5,000 to eligible independently or locally owned businesses in Fremont, Dublin, Livermore and Unincorporated East County, with priority given to restaurants and small retail businesses. The application period started on May 25, 2020 and has now closed. For more information, download Supervisor Haggerty’s May 26, 2020 COVID-19 Update Newsletter.
Alameda County Public Health Department provides a COVID-19 dashboard and information on the Shelter in Place Health Order.
Alameda County Treasurer-Tax Collector issued their "COVID‐19 Related Delinquent Property Tax Penalty & Interest Waiver Policy” in order to help taxpayers determine if they qualify for a waiver of delinquent penalties, interest, or costs related to the second installment payment of delinquent taxes paid after April 10th. Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Alameda County Workforce Development Board provides Rapid Response assistance to businesses considering layoffs.
Amazon Small Business Academy provides information for successful selling on Amazon stores.
American Express "Shop Small" Program provides free resources and materials including graphics to help promote small businesses.
Anewamerica Women’s Business Center is a trusted SBA partner and can help women entrepreneurs in the Bay Area with an SBA loan application and offer other valuable resources and advice.
Association of Manufacturers Bay Area provides a list of resources to assist manufacturing companies.
California Association for Micro Enterprise Opportunity (CAMEO) provides self-employed, entrepreneurs and micro-businesses with small business financing, technical assistance and business management training. CAMEO, in partnership with Legal Aid at Work, also offers a legal clinic to assist self-employed workers in California to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
CA Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) provides information and a FAQ about COVID-19 updates for businesses licensed to serve or sell alcohol.
CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) administers California’s Small Business Sales and Use Tax Relief deferment of sales and use taxes payment of up to $50,000, for up to 12 months.
CA Employment Development Department (EDD) administers worker Unemployment Insurance, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and provides resources for workers and employers relating to employee benefits, payroll taxes, workforce development programs, etc. The EDD also provides an option for employers to postpone filing and payment deadlines for payroll tax filing. Employers must make request in writing to the EDD for up to a 60-day extension.
CA Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBANK) through their Small Business Finance Center (SBFC) has California Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program — to provide loan guarantees and direct loans for small businesses that experience barriers to accessing capital elsewhere.
IBANK's California Rebuilding Fund is a new public-private partnership that will leverage government backed capital to make flexible, affordable loans to small businesses with 50 employees or fewer through participating California Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs).
CA Labor and Workforce Development Agency provides resources for workers and employers relating to Paid Sick Leave, Disability and Unemployment Insurance, Paid Family Leave, Workplace Health and Safety.
CA MyChildCare.ca.gov is a new portal to help Essential Workers find childcare services during the pandemic.
CA Treasurer’s CalCAP Program offers a special loan program which encourages banks to make loans to small businesses that have difficulty getting financing.
Cal-OSHA administers occupational safety and health program and provides guidance to employers on workplace safety and issues including Industry Guidance on COVID-19.
California Employers Association offers guidance to employers on human resources compliance issues.
California Manufacturers & Technology Association offers guidance to manufacturing employers regarding OSHA, Cal/OSHA, EPA, and CDC COVID-19 compliance.
California Manufacturing Technology Consulting (CMTC) offers resources and an assistance program to support California small and medium-sized manufacturers (up to 500 employees).
CARES Act Resources:
U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship
U.S. Chamber of Commerce CARES Act Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had information about Coronavirus.
Dublin Chamber of Commerce provides information and resources to members; Also promotes Dublin-based businesses on the Discover Dublin Facebook page.
Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) provides information for building/property managers regarding how to safely flush your water system after a shutdown.
East Bay Clean Energy has implemented a moratorium on service disconnections for non-payment for both residential and commercial customers.
East Bay Community Foundation provided one-time general operating grants to nonprofit organizations that provide critical services around economic security to the most vulnerable populations in the East Bay.
East Bay Economic Development Alliance provides guides and resources for businesses in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
East Bay SCORE is a trusted SBA partner and can help business owners (in Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano counties) with an SBA loan application and offer other valuable resources and advice.
eBay Up & Running Program offers a free basic online storefront for 3 months to impacted businesses that do not currently sell online.
Facebook for Business Hub provides guides and resources for businesses.
Facebook Small Business Grants Program offers non-governmental grants of $2,500 plus ad credits up to $1,500 for eligible small businesses. For San Francisco Bay Area businesses, the application period opened on April 20, 2020 and is now closed.
GoFundMe Small Business Relief Fund – Provides matching grants of $500 to eligible businesses through the Small Business Relief Initiative created by GoFundMe, Yelp and Intuit QuickBooks.
Google Resources provides guides and resources for businesses.
Great Plates Delivered is a program established by the State and administered locally by Alameda County to help ensure older Californians (that are not eligible for other nutrition programs) have access to healthy meals.
ICA Fund Good Jobs is offering zero-interest loan for small Bay Area companies through their Rapid Response Liquidity Fund.
Innovation TRIVALLEY Leadership Group (ITV) provides a resources guide for local businesses; also has launched #TRIVALLEYTogether to bring regional businesses and community members together to help donate technology, donate medical supplies and cash to support the most vulnerable population. ITV has also compiled a list of Bay Area Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) vendors.
Intuit Aid Assist offer a free online tax credits estimator tool to help business owners understand tax credits they may be eligible for.
iTradeNetwork is offering (during the month of April) to help businesses in the foodchain connect with non-traditional trading connections (e.g. operator-to-retailer, distributor-to-retailer) on their network to ensure food and supplies are directed where they are needed most.
Kaiser Permanente created a "Return to Work Playbook" with useful tools for employers on workplace safety and supporting employees.
Kiva offers non-governmental crowd-sourced 0% interest small business loans.
Legal Resources These organizations may be able to provide legal assistance or referrals:
- UC Berkeley Law Community Law Clinic provides free legal assistance to survive the COVID-19 pandemic to small businesses that cannot afford an attorney.
- Alameda County Small Business Development Center offers free business counseling, including referrals for legal guidance. They are also offering weekly virtual office hours staffed by expert lawyers so that small businesses have a place to get specific questions answered as well as a weekly weekly webinar (password:baseforce).
- Alameda County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service can provide information about local pro bono legal programs.
Main Street Lending Program is a program administered by the Federal Reserve to support lending to small and medium-sized businesses that were in good financial standing before the COVID-19 pandemic.
National Association of Manufacturers provides information to manufacturers.
Northern California Financial Development Corporation (Nor-Cal FDC) offers a loan guarantee program for small businesses and participates in California IBANK's Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program.
Open for Business Hub lists technology companies that are helping small businesses by enabling remote work during this time.
Pacific Community Ventures provides resources for small businesses.
PG&E has implemented a moratorium on service disconnections for non-payment for both residential and commercial customers.
PostMates Small Business Relief Pilot is a program that temporarily waives commission fees for businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Professional Beauty Association (PBA) COVID-19 Relief Fund is offering $500 grants to licensed beauty professionals.
Safely Making California Marketplace is a website hosted by the California Manufacturers & Technology Association that lists manufacturers of non-medical grade Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks, sanitizers, gowns, face shields, plexiglass partitions and wipes.
Salesforce Care Small Business Grant Program offers non-governmental grants of $10,000 for eligible small businesses. For California businesses, the application period was from April 27 to May 4, 2020 and is now closed.
SF Made (COVID-19 Impact Resources for Manufacturers) provides resources and tips for Bay Area manufacturers. Note: references on their website to “City” mean the City of San Francisco.
Shopify is offering an extended 90-day free trial; Also enabling physical and digital gift cards for new and existing clients.
Shopify Capital program offers non-governmental loans to small business clients.
Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans to eligible small businesses.
Small Business Relief Initiative Fund offers non-governmental grants. (Sponsored by Yelp, GoFundMe and Intuit QuickBooks.)
Small Business Majority provides tips and resources for small businesses on the national level.
Stop Waste administers the Alameda County Reusable Bag Ordinance including inspections, enforcements and bag charge requirements. As of June 18, 2020, customers in Alameda County can resume bringing their own bags, mugs, or other reusable items from home if they do not require handling by store employees. Under 6/18/2020 order, customers can place their reusable bags in carts and/or baskets, but must bag their own groceries.
Tax Filing Relief for Businesses:
Federal income tax filing and payment postponed to July 15, 2020
State income tax filing and payment postponed to July 15, 2020
Request a time extension for state payroll taxes
Tri-Valley Career Center has small business assistance information for employers and unemployment information/job seeking information for workers.
Vagaro is offering an extended free trial for new clients plus monthly discounts, marketing tools, online shopping cart resources and other resources for existing clients.
Veterans Business Outreach Center is a trusted SBA partner and can help California business owners with an SBA loan application and offer other valuable resources and advice.
Visit Tri-Valley (VTV) is providing resources to support Tri-Valley businesses with new webpages that provide small business listings, updates and special offers. They also created a #TriValleyToGo campaign to support local businesses and offer information to support hospitality industry businesses on their Partners webpage.
Verizon Small Business Recovery Fund through Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
Working Solutions offers microloans, consulting and other resources for Bay Area business owners with a focus on start-up and early-stage financing; Working Solutions is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and participates in California IBANK's Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program.
World Central Kitchen coordinates #ChefsForAmerica, a non-governmental meal delivery program that support small, independent restaurants.
Yelp Resource Hub provides guides and resources for businesses
Yelp Relief Program offered non-governmental grants and ad credits (primarily for restaurants and bars). This program ended in June 2020.
SBA Disaster Economic Injury Loan Assistance - Webinars, Videos and Slidedecks:
Watch the Walkthrough for SBA Economic Injury Loan Online Application video from SBA
Download the How to apply for a SBA Disaster Loan slidedeck from CAMEO
Watch the CAMEO Webinar with SBA Office of Disaster Assistance (recorded 3/19/20)
Watch the Guide to Economic Injury Loans webinar from SBA Region IX (registration required)
SBA Disaster Economic Injury Loan Assistance - Partners to assist with loan applications:
Alameda County Small Business Development Center (part of America’s SBDC, the association that represents America’s nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers).
Veteran Launch: Provides SBA Small Business loans to qualified California small businesses owned by veterans, active duty military personnel and their families who are unable to obtain a bank loan.
Other Webinars:
Watch the COVID-19 Coping Strategies and Insights webinar hosted by Innovation Tri Valley Leadership Group (recorded 3/27/2020)
Visit Norcal SBDC’s calendar for a list of upcoming webinars.