SUPPORT LOCAL
Per Governor Abbott’s order, effective at noon June 26, all bars and similar establishments must close. These businesses may remain open for delivery and take-out.
Beginning Monday, June 29, restaurants may remain open for dine-in service, but at a capacity not to exceed 50 percent of total listed indoor occupancy. Previously, restaurants were allowed to operate at 75 percent of capacity.
Outdoor gatherings of 100 or more people must be approved by local governments, with certain exceptions, and rafting and tubing businesses must close.
We encourage you to support your local businesses. We are keeping a tab on who is open, visit our list here.
DISASTER RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
We are monitoring all recommendations and updates from government officials surrounding COVID-19; the safety of our residents, workers and visitors is of the utmost importance to us. The first priority for everyone is to take appropriate steps to limit the spread of COVID-19 and ensure our entire community remains healthy.
During this difficult time, our mission is to help businesses, stakeholders and members understand the resources available. In addition, we are working closely with state and local officials to advocate on their behalf.
We’ll continue to revise this list, but please feel free to reach out to these businesses directly for any questions:
NEW!
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economy Security Act (CARES Act) provides over $350+ billion in Federal support for small business. Our partner, gener8tor, has created a CARES Act Emergency Guide presentation that encapsulates the big takeaways and also links to additional resources.
Small Business Assistance is Available NOW! There are two options for funding and you should apply for BOTH!
The Paycheck Protection Program provides funds for payroll, mortgage interest, rent, and utilities
Economic Injury Disaster Advance Loan
Other Resources:
America's Small Business Development Center Network - COVID-19 Small Business Resources
SBA Disaster Assistance - SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
US Chamber of Commerce - Combating the Coronavirus, Coronavirus Response Toolkit & Resources to Help Your Small Business Survive the Coronavirus
Center for Disease Control and Prevention - Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers & Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist
The World Health Organization (WHO)- features tips, advice, reports, research and more.
IRS- special section focused on steps to help taxpayers, businesses and others affected by the coronavirus.
Tech Against Coronavirus - Software Solution (i.e. Slack, Toggl, Zoom, Google Handouts)
Facebook for Business – Small Business Grants Program
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) - COVID-19 Resources Employers
State of Texas - Information for Businesses, Events, and Venues
The U.S. Travel Association- comprehensive tool kit.
Retail Strategies- Small Business Resource
Local & Resources specific to the Hospitality Industry:
Greater Houston Partnership - Houston coronavirus resources
Houston Arts Alliance- resources to help artists and non-profits; additional resources specifically for artists.
Houston First- resources and support for Houston’s hospitality industry.
Southern Smoke Foundation- Emergency Relief Fund
Houston SCORE - continuing small business mentorship via video chats, email and telephone.
Texas Restaurant Association- robust resources page that details everything from operations and insurance to HR and employee info as well as state updates.
U.S. Bartender's Guild National Charity Foundation- emergency grants for bartenders in crisis.
Additional resources offered by our Central Houston partners:
ImpactHub, a locally rooted, globally connected, nonprofit organization that inspires, connects and empowers people working to solve social problems in our city and around the world.
Gener8tor, a Madison, Wisconsin-based nationally ranked, turnkey accelerator platform focused on the creative economy connecting startups, entrepreneurs, artists, investors, universities and corporations.
MassChallege, a Boston-based globally recognized 501 (C)(3) non-profit startup accelerator
The Cannon, is an organization that develops and manages startup hubs -- workspaces for entrepreneurs that surround them with all the resources they need to succeed.
Alice, the world’s first 100% virtual accelerator.