COVID-19 Support Webinar
Understanding SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans, SBA Express Loans, and the Paycheck Protection Plan
Monday, April 6 | 11:00am - 12:15pm
Small businesses across Louisiana who are experiencing economic loss due to Covid-19 are now able to access the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Loan Advance. There are also other programs available such as the SBA Express Loan and the Express Bridge Loan. There is also the newest program, the Paycheck Protection Plan.

To learn more about these programs, please join us for a special webinar on Monday, April 6, 11:00am-12:15pm, to learn more including:
  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Loan Terms
  • Supporting Documentation
  • Online Application Process

This event is co-hosted by the SBA. Representatives will provide insights on these programs and will be available to answer your questions. Speakers include:
  • Susheel Kumar, Public Information Officer, Office of Disaster Assistance, Field Operations Center – West, U.S. Small Business Association
  • Jo Ann Lawrence, Deputy District Director, SBA Louisiana District Office 
  • Klassi Duncan, Director, Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, ULLA

All small businesses interested in learning more are welcomed to attend. However, webinar seats are limited. Click Here to Register Today!


To determine your eligibility and to get one-on-one support, please email [email protected].
DBE Outreach and Education Webinar
Preparing to Access Capital for Transportation and Development Projects + DBE Certification
Wednesday, April 15 | 10:00am - 12:00pm
During this webinar, existing and aspiring DBE firms will learn the principles of estimating for developing winning bids, best practices in financial statements analysis, and important steps on how to best prepare to access capital.

This session will also include an overview of the LAUCP DBE Certification including eligibility requirements and the application process.

The event will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 10:00am-12:00pm. There is no cost to attend but registration is required.

DBE Action Request
Complete the LADOTD Needs Assessment Survey Today! Closing Date Wednesday, April 8
In order to achieve the goals of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Supportive Services Program (DBE/SS), the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and the Urban League of Louisiana are seeking to determine the needs and service offerings that will increase the participation of DBE firms in its contracts.

The results of the DBE Needs Assessment Survey will be used as the basis for developing the annual DBE/SS Program that will help DBE firms participate, grow, diversify, and build capacity to successfully compete in the highway industry as consultants, contractors, service providers and suppliers.

Please complete the e-survey to support this process. This initial survey will be closed on April 8. Thank you for your participation in this effort. Start Your Survey Here
Administered By: SBA

The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. These working capital loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid had the disaster not occurred.  

In addition, small businesses are now eligible to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance of up to $10,000. Funds will be made available within three days of a successful application, and this loan advance will not have to be repaid.
Administered By: SBA Approved Lenders

Featuring a simplified process, SBA Express Loans are delivered by experienced lenders who are authorized to make the credit decision for the SBA. These can be term loans or revolving lines of credit. Maximum amount of the loan is $350,000. 

Small businesses can also access the SBA Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program which allows those who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 with less paperwork. These loans can help overcome the temporary loss of revenue and can be a term loan, or used to bridge the gap while applying for a direct EIDL.
Administered By: SBA Approved Lenders

The Paycheck Protection Program is a SBA-guaranteed loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll during the COVID-19 crisis.

SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. The PPP will be available through June 30, 2020.
Administered By: Participating Banks

The LPGP provides access to capital to small companies that may experience (have experienced) a sudden drop in revenues due to lost business caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Approved lenders will offer loans of up to $100,000 per applicant and any affiliates. All small businesses employing under 100 workers are eligible, including farmers and fishermen. Main street small businesses are encouraged to apply, e.g., restaurants.