If you are a small business in town, we understand you are going through an especially uncertain time and we want to be able to help. Ridgefield’s small businesses are what makes our town a close knit community and a destination for visitors, we want to make sure it stays that way.
We have put together a series of free online resources for small businesses that may be helpful for local business owners during this time.
Update from the Town of Ridgefield
Reopening Guidelines from the Office of the Selectman, updated on May 11, 2020.
Reopening Resource Guide for Small Businesses
Small Business Reopening Resource Guide from the State of Connecticut, updated on May 18, 2020.
Emergency Loans
The Paycheck Protection Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. The SBA will resume accepting Paycheck Protection Program applications from participating lenders on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 10:30am EDT. Learn more about lenders participating in the Paycheck Protection Program by State.
COVID-19 Business Emergency Response Unit
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development has created a COVID-19 Business Emergency Response Unit dedicated to assisting businesses navigate resources and develop new resources. Business owners can call (860) 500-2333 to receive assistance.
CT Office of Small Business Affairs
The Office of Small Business Affairs has an additional list of financial resources, including loan programs and lending partners in Connecticut. Learn more here.
Reimbursement of medical leave costs for small and medium-sized businesses
The U.S. Treasury Department, Internal Revenue Service, and the U.S. Department of Labor announced that small and midsize employers can begin taking advantage of two new refundable payroll tax credits, designed to immediately and fully reimburse them for the cost of providing Coronavirus-related leave to their employees. For more information go to the Insurance Department Press Release.
Connecticut Recovery Bridge Loan Program
Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development
As of March 27, 2020, the initial round of funding for this program is closed for applications.
COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan
U.S. Small Business Administration
Through the U.S. Small Business Administration, local business owners with fewer than 500 employees can now apply for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan. As of April 16, 2020, the EIDL program is closed and is not accepting new applications at this time.
FAQs
Tax Filing Extensions
The Department of Revenue Services has extended deadlines for filing and payments associated with certain state business tax returns. See the extended deadlines.
Business Interruption Insurance
A business interruption insurance policy should list or describe the types of events it covers. Events that are not described in the policy are typically not covered. It is important to review the policy exclusions, coverage limits, and applicable deductibles with your agent, broker or insurer. The Connecticut Insurance Department has an FAQ that provides additional information. Learn more.
Guide to the CARES Act
On March 27, 2020, the United States Congress approved the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide the country with relief from the impact of COVID-19. The CARES Act Guide explains how the Act will impact small businesses. Learn more.
Yankee Institute for Public Policy
Take a look at the COVID-19 Resources and Q&A provided by the Yankee Institute for Public Policy.
Town of Ridgefield COVID-19: Financial Resources for Small Business Owners
Take a look at the resources from the Town of Ridgefield.
Workshops
SCORE
SCORE is offering online workshops for small businesses. SCORE’s mission is to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. See upcoming workshops. Access past webinars.
Community Economic Development Fund
The Community Economic Development Fund has upcoming trainings for small businesses and you can access their past presentations.
Women’s Business Development Council
The Women’s Business Development Council is offering one-on-one virtual counseling with experts, tips and advice for business owners, and a series of online webinars and virtual classes. Learn more.
