From the beginning of the health crisis that spawned an economic crisis, your Foundation has been pro-active with recovery initiatives. The Chamber staff has supported local businesses with timely information, updated the website, upgraded technologies, and more. Deemed an essential entity by name early on in the pandemic, the office did not close. The staff has been full-time since May 18.

Partnering with the City and NBEDC, the Foundation has supported additional funds for downtown businesses needing an on-line sales component, extra counselors for the SBDC, small business grants at $10,000 each, PPP loans for local businesses, and more. At press time, the City was reviewing over 230 applications for the small business grants for approval in August and distribution.

The Foundation has been well represented on multiple committees and task forces formed by the city government since the crisis began. The Chamber staff is also working with state and national trade associations for best practices to assist in bringing back the economy.