CenterState CEO is working to keep its members and the community apprised of the latest information impacting businesses, including critical information relative to Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order to reduced on-site workforce to 25% for non-essential industries; the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans; and the City of Syracuse’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program for small businesses.

Governor Cuomo Executive Order
Businesses are having to react quickly to assess the full impact of the Governor's Executive Order on daily operations, their businesses bottom line and staff.

While information is changing quickly and that there are many unanswered questions at this time, what we do know is:

  • The EO is effective starting Fri., March 20, 2020 at 8 p.m.
  • The 75 percent reduction mandate is for employees on-site at any given time. 
  • This mandate applies to both profit and nonprofits.
  • Employers are strongly encouraged to have employees work from home where and when possible. 
  • The EO contains a list of essential businesses that are exempt from the mandatory reduction.
  • ESD will be providing additional guidance. Check here for more details.

Empire State Development is working on guidelines for what businesses will be exempt from this EO. If you believe there is a business or industry not currently listed as exempt on this list, we encourage you to reach out to ESD here . The EO further provides that any other business may ask to be deemed essential by requesting an opinion from the Empire State Development Corporation. We will offer members who request and meet guidelines a letter of support as they seek to receive an essential operat ions designation.

SBA Statewide Disaster Declaration
In an effort to alleviate some of the negative impacts of the Coronavirus on small businesses, the SBA has also established Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Eligible small businesses can apply online  here  or review this fact sheet  with important information about the declaration and EIDL requirements. Businesses can take advantage of free assistance offered by SBA’s network of Resource Partners for help with preparing their loan applications. Click  here  to find local help. The NYS Small Business Development Center network recommends submitting a request for assistance  here . 
 
City of Syracuse Emergency Relief
Additionally, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh today announced the creation of the  COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program  for small businesses in the City of Syracuse. The Syracuse Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) will create a dedicated $500,000 fund to provide zero-percent interest, 180-day emergency loans to small businesses in the city of Syracuse. Applications will be available beginning Monday, March 23.
 
Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact our team at  [email protected] .