Updated 05/13/20
Resources + More Information on new Restrictions and Requirements for businesses as part of the May 8 Update to Stay Home–Work Safe Orders:
Checklists for business owners and customers detailing the rules of reopening
Details on businesses’ activity logs and what information to include
Recent News Coverage
Austin Restaurants Are Asked to Track Diners as They Reopen for Dine-In Service (Eater Austin)
Businesses with specific restrictions in addition to the capacity mandate and detailed requirements (KXAN)
Adler’s Latest Stay Home Orders: What You Need to Know (Austin Monthly)
Coronavirus in Austin: New stay home orders issued for Austin, Travis County (Austin American-Statesman)
Austin-Travis County stay-home order extended again as more Texas businesses reopen (KVUE)
Resources: Businesses, Restaurants & Construction Sites
Resources for Reopening
Building & Office Management Association’s guide to prepare buildings for re-entry
Checklist: Here’s what Texas restaurants are recommended to do when they reopen May 1
Download and print informational posters for employees and customers
Pandemic Relaunch Toolkit: Resources for Restaurants + Bars
The toolkit from Streetsense includes capital management tactics, operational guidance to relaunch, and resources to help future-proof your restaurant.
The Associated Builders and Contractors Association is encouraging construction job sites to host a safety stand-down. View & download the tool kit.
Additional Resources
Streetsense’s small business resource kit for a variety of industries
Search a comprehensive list of small business resources
Compiled by local, state, and federal governments, as well as nonprofit agencies on the City of Austin’s website.
Download informational posters in English and Spanish for construction job sites, employees, and customers of businesses, and for the general public.
Search a comprehensive list of small business resources from local, state, and federal governments, as well as nonprofit agencies on the City of Austin’s website.
Financial Relief & Financial Resources for Businesses
Federal Reserve Announces Main Street Lending Program for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses
LiftFund | Small Business Loans, Microloans, SBA Loans for Women & Minorities
New Construction Requirements that apply to all active sites now in effect
Multi-Ethnic Chamber Alliance Members Can Apply Early for Loan Program
As of April 15, MECA members can apply to the Austin Economic Injury Bridge Loan Program before the application opens to all small businesses. Eligible small businesses that can demonstrate an economic loss associated with the COVID-19 pandemic can apply for working capital loans up to $35,000. Begin your application today by completing a loan inquiry form.
New RISE Fund Applications are Now Open
On April 9, the Austin City Council passed a resolution to allocate $15 million for Relief in a State of Emergency (RISE) Funds to provide immediate direct services and assistance to people suffering financial hardship due to COVID-19.
Confirm that your organization is a registered vendor with the City of Austin
Register to become a potential City of Austin vendor
U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan
Small businesses, private non-profits, homeowners, and renters can apply for emergency, low-interest bridge loans from the SBA. Click here for more information.
SBA Loans & Main Street Lending Program: What you need to know to apply for financial relief for your business
Business Owners, Career Development & Employment
Guides & Helpful Links for Businesses, Restaurants, and Organizations
ABJ’s Small Business Resource Guide
Austin Chamber Resources for Businesses
City of Austin small business preparedness
City of Austin small business resources
Art Alliance Austin’s Resources for Organizations & Artists
Texas Workforce Commission Mass Claims
TWC has developed a webpage with resources and information on actions taken by the commission in response to COVID-19.
Development Tools for Individuals and Businesses
Workforce Solutions Capital Area
Appointments are now available for individuals seeking employment and employers needing support. Call ahead to schedule. Click here for more info.
Looking for a job? Visit Workforce Solutions Capital Area Jobs page for open positions with employers hiring now!
The Economic Development Department is waiving the charge for its online Small Business Classes. Browse all available online classes through the Economic Development Department’s website.
Texas Business Resources
Where you can also find information on the Governor’s Small Business Webinar Series. Sign up for Small Business Updates to be notified as soon as webinar dates are announced. The series will provide, relevant, actionable information on COVID-19 recovery resources and will connect business owners with local experts and support systems.
Resources for Individuals & Families
If you have additional information that would be helpful to the downtown community, please email us at hello@downtownaustin.com.
