If you missed the free webinar from Washington Retail Association on completing a PPP Forgiveness Application, on September 17, here’s another chance to get some assistance. The NFIB (National Federation of Independent Businesses) is also hosting a free webinar covering the same topic. The webinar will be this Wednesday, September 30 at 9 am (PST.)…

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We continue to update this page as information comes into the Governor’s Reopening Guidance Page. The most recent updates are in bold text. The governor’s office continues to issue reopening guidance on a regular basis and the Chamber wants this information to be convenient for you. So the links below will take you to documentation…

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Governor Inslee announced new standards for all commercial airports in Washington state. The governor also issued recommendations for airlines flying into our state. These measures were put into place to protect the health and safety of employees and passengers who must travel during the pandemic. However, the approach is not all that different from what…

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The deadline for applications is Oct 2 for this round of funding with the Pierce County CARES Business Relief Programs. Do not wait until the deadline to apply if you can avoid it. Pierce County has funds available through the CARES Act for Business Relief Programs. These include Commercial Rent and Mortgage assistance, and Forgiveable…

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Inslee issued updated guidance for venues on Sept 21. The governor has announced guidance so that miscellaneous venues can be a part of Washington’s Safe Start phased reopening plan.  This includes spaces such as convention/conference centers, designated meeting spaces in hotels, events centers and other similar venues. The guidance allows business meetings, professionaldevelopment training and testing,…

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Limited funding is available, as with other programs. In this case, $7.75 million is available for rental and mortgage assistance. According to Tacoma Weekly, the demand will be higher than the allotted funding. Qualifications As with the forgivable loans for small businesses in Pierce County, businesses must meet certain qualifications including: Being physically located in…

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As businesses struggle through the Covid pandemic, many recognize that there is strength in numbers. Some businesses are wondering what will help them survive this trying time, while others are actually thriving. At the FME Chamber of Commerce, we understand first-hand the challenges that the entire business community is facing right now. Our team has…

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Applying for PPP Loan Forgiveness can be a daunting task. Many small businesses are struggling to survive. Therefore, the time and resources required to apply for loan forgiveness may take a backseat to business stabilization. Although the SBA and treasury announced an EZ application, in June, many businesses did not qualify to use it. If…

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While my biggest complaint is a bit of a sore throat from the smoky air, there are those who are dealing with so much more from the wildfires. Thursday, Governor Inslee issued a proclamation  for DSHS to expand temporary assistance. The Department of Social and Health Services will be expanding benefits in response to damage from…

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Unhealthy air quality means suggestions for staying inside this weekend. If Covid and wild fires were not enough for Pierce County businesses and residents to handle, now their air quality adds another layer to already trying times. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency recommends the community stay inside this weekend. Air quality is not suitable…

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