Dear Council Members and aides,
Almost a month ago, we updated you with the changes we’ve put into place since COVID-19 hit us, and how we are helping businesses through this difficult time. We have reached out to more than 500 local businesses to offer our assistance, connection to resources (federal/state/local), and lots of basic TLC. We have helped 71 METCO recipients get the necessary payment deferment they needed, and METCO dedicated existing loan funds to support the Small Business Continuity Loan with other partners and through LHOME; that loan program has received more than 700 inquiries from small businesses with 455 applications in process, and more than 30 loans awarded to very small businesses.
With the newly signed fourth federal relief bill, we are busily reaching out to companies we know can benefit from the federal aid, as well as checking in with larger companies to see how they are faring economically and about workforce issues. We also have translated some documents into several languages, so that we are not leaving anyone behind.
Our newly intense assistance will continue as businesses reopen and face a new set of challenges. We take pride in our work to support Louisville’s businesses – large and small – and look forward to helping our community find our new normal as seamlessly as possible.
As your partner in economic development, please do not hesitate to send any businesses you hear from our way. We are well equipped to help any business, no matter what size, and no matter the issue. You can also find a wealth of information on our small business resources page: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/louisville-forward/small-business-resources-covid-19.
Thank you!
Mary Ellen Wiederwohl
Chief, Louisville Forward
Rebecca Fleischaker
Director, Department of Economic Development
