Resources for Small Business Owners

Amidst the outbreak of COVID-19, we’ve seen something truly miraculous unfold—an inspiring sense of togetherness as people rally around our community and businesses. In an effort to assist the local business owners in our community, Seattle Met has put together a list of resources for relief and support.

Please share this with any small business owners you may know, as we are appreciative of all the neighborhood establishments that we love to frequent.

Some relief options to small business owners include:

Federal Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans (up to $2 million).

It can “provide up to $2 million of financial assistance (actual loan amounts are based on amount of economic injury) to small businesses or private, non-profit organizations that suffer substantial economic injury as a result of the declared disaster, regardless of whether the applicant sustained physical damage. Any questions about that or the application process can be directed to 1-800-659-2955 or DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.

Seattle Office of Economic Development grants of up to $10,000. 

These grants are available to small business owners who make 80 percent or less of the area’s median income; have a physical location and five or fewer employees; and have experienced a loss of income due to COVID-19.

Information about the city’s business and occupation tax deadline extension. 

The city’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services extended the city’s B&O filing deadline for businesses who reported $5 million or less in revenue in 2019 and pay their B&O tax on a quarterly basis. The first and second quarters of 2020 will tentatively be due on or before October 31.

Deferred payment plans with Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), Seattle City Light (SCL), and Puget Sound Energy.

Commercial customers can set up deferred payment plans with SCL or SPU by calling 206-684-3000 or emailing here. Also, gas provider Puget Sound Energy will not be disconnecting customers, instead waiving late fees and offering payment plans.

Amazon’s Neighborhood Small Business Relief Fund cash grants for South Lake Union and Regrade small businesses.

The e-commerce giant will draw from a $5 million fund to support businesses with less than $7 million in annual revenue or fewer than 50 employees with a few blocks of its Seattle headquarters.