Business News for February 9, 2021
Today's message includes the following news, best practices, and online courses:

  • Dane County updates Public Health Order regarding gatherings, sports
  • SBA releases comparison of relief programs
  • Upcoming SBA webinars
  • SBA Releases FAQ for EIDL Targeted Advance

Upcoming Learning Opportunities:
  • Biz Smart Sprint - starting Thursday!
  • Learning to Lead Series for emerging and aspiring leaders
  • HR Basics for Non-HR Professionals
  • Strategic planning course options
Business News, Resources, and Best Practices
Public Health Madison & Dane County Issues Order #13
Starts Feb. 10th, allows for larger gathering limits, more sports
In order to balance business and community needs while still recognizing the existing threats, Public Health Madison & Dane County has issued new guidance.

  • Gathering limits indoors and outdoors increased. Inside gatherings where food or drink is offered or provided are limited to 25 individuals, 50 individuals where food is not offered.
  • Updated the types of face coverings that are allowed, and added additional face covering requirements for outdoor locations.
  • Removal of provision to limit regulated childcare and four-year old kindergarten groups to 15. Indoor youth settings must follow gathering limits.
  • Temporary retail stores are able to operate under the same requirements as permanent retail stores.
SBA COVID Response Programs
Are you eligible for multiple SBA COVID Relief Options?
The SBA has released a summary of the criteria that must be met when considering different funding options. This chart includes details about PPP, EIDL, and Shuttered Venue Operators' Grant.

SBA Releases FAQ for EIDL Targeted Advance
Applicants must receive an invitation from the SBA to apply
The SBA has released Targeted EIDL Advance Frequently Asked Questions  which highlights the program and eligibility requirements. This program was commonly referred to as the "EIDL grant" before funding ran out in July 2020.
 
Applicants must wait until they receive an email invite from the SBA to apply for the new Targeted EIDL Advance. Businesses and nonprofit organizations in low income areas that received a previous EIDL Advance for less than $10,000 will be the first group to receive email invitations to the application portal. 
Still Have Questions for the SBA?
Additional webinars added
Get the most current information to help your small business with PPP and coronavirus tax relief. Webinars review the program and there is opportunity to ask questions. 

Coronavirus Tax Relief for Employers & Business Owners

Paycheck Protection Program: Re-Launch

SBA Funding Options  

Find more information at  www.sba.gov/coronavirus. Coronavirus relief information is available in 17 languages here.
Upcoming Virtual Learning Opportunities
Biz Smart Sprint Starts Thursday!
Starts February 11, 2021
Starting a business is always a blur, whether you have some business experience or just a passion for your product or service. Join us for this six-session class to better bring your ideas into focus.

In addition to course content, you will receive client access to GrowthWheel, which provides additional tools and worksheets to capture your thoughts in one place.
HR Basics for Non-HR Professionals
March 2 & 3
Whether you're a new leader who wants to know the basics, a small business owner or manager with HR responsibilities as part of your role, or a business that does not have a dedicated HR expert on your staff, this is the program for you.

Topics Include:
  • Employment laws most often violated by small businesses
  • Independent contractors vs. employees
  • Exempt vs. non-exempt employees
  • Overtime and other pay
  • FMLA, OSHA, harassment policies, and more
  • Disciplinary processes
  • ... and more!
Launch into Leadership
Starts February 22
Taking on a new leadership role requires a change in mindset and learning many new skills, including developing a new relationship with co-workers, navigating new supervisory responsibilities, improving communication among the team, and recognizing and motivating team members. This course can help you make the transition successfully.
Build a Plan for 2021
Upcoming courses can help you with your strategic planning process
Our free Navigating the New Normal COVID Response Guide is rooted in business planning and designed to help you set new goals and mitigate future risk. Revisit your guide today to jump-start your planning, then join one of these courses to dive in:

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the UW-Madison SBDC office at sbdc@bus.wisc.edu or 608-263-2221 to request accommodations.

The Wisconsin SBDC Network is a proud part of the Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship in the University of Wisconsin System. It is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.