Last year, the PA Department of Community and Economic opened a $225 million COVID-19 Relief PA Statewide Small Business Assistance program that targeted small businesses impacted by the pandemic. This program provided funding to many small businesses throughout the state. Although many businesses received funding, there are many who are still struggling.
Some help is coming to an industry that was one of the hardest hit by the pandemic. State Sen. Vince Hughes, House Democratic Leader Joanna McClinton and other state leaders announced on Friday, August 19, 2021, that hair salons and barbershops across Pennsylvania will be eligible for $18 million in relief funding.
“As the pandemic spread last year, these small businesses did what we asked them to do and were among the hardest hit,” Hughes said. “Unlike restaurants and other businesses, there were no regulatory work-arounds or socially distanced options. You can’t give a drive-through haircut. For some, this will mean survival.”
The relief money will Only be made available to businesses, with NAICS code 812111 or 812112, that previously applied for the COVID-19 Relief PA Statewide Small Business Program w but were not funded. New applications are Not being accepted.
“The pandemic created tremendous challenges for the hair care industry and the thousands of workers who provide in-person services to customers,” said Gov. Wolf. “This pandemic relief funding will provide direct support to these businesses, which are important to local economies and provide vital jobs in many communities..”
Throughout the pandemic, the state has worked to provide tools and resources to help our small business endure these challenges. Small businesses are a crucial part of our economy. They are our entrepreneurs, our community, and our friends and neighbors. The Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are an essential resource for small businesses. As a CDFI, Rising Tide works to help entrepreneurs develop new business ideas, make business plans, and navigate the challenges of starting, running, or expanding a business.
Contact the Rising Tide Community Loan Fund at 484.893.1039 at the end of September for more information.
WATCH VIDEO for more details on the relief funds
