San Diego City Wire

A new program aimed at helping small businesses in the State of California has started. 

With businesses struggling at the hands of the coronavirus pandemic, it is more needed than ever. Many residents and business owners are growing frustrated due to the increased restrictions being placed on businesses that are severely hindering their ability to survive the pandemic. 

The new program is a part of the federal government's recently passed stimulus package, which includes relief funds for small businesses. 

“It’s been a very difficult year for the business community, particularly our small businesses; that is the reason we have worked hard to provide relief and help during this difficult time. I am excited to work with the San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network and The San Diego Foundation again to deliver funding, information and technical support for businesses and nonprofits. The $500 million in grants from the State of California and the federal government’s renewal of PPP, and the roll out of grants for live venues will be vital to the recovery of San Diego County businesses in the New Year," Supervisor Nathan Fletcher, co-chair of San Diego County's COVID-19 subcommittee, said, according to the San Diego & Imperial Small Business Development Center.

In addition to financial resources, the county is also striving to make other resources available to small businesses in the area. 

“Our team of over 100 business advisors provided over 20,000 hours of one-on-one assistance in 2020 helping small business owners access disaster assistance and get through the pandemic. With the new state and federal programs, our team will be ready and available to help small businesses who continue to need our help," Daniel Fitzgerald, regional director of the San Diego & Imperial SBDC Network, said.