Local businesses affected by pandemic can benefit from programs

Looking for a new revenue stream or client? Local businesses affected by the pandemic can help or be helped by programs offered through the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.

Part of the OKC Small Business Continuity Program, created in response to the challenges of the pandemic, is the city’s Small Business Technical Assistance Program, which provides qualified small businesses with the services of local subject-matter experts from a pre-qualified pool for technical assistance services including establishing sound accounting and bookkeeping practices, marketing and website development, legal assistance, help with HR and employment best practices, strategy and operations consulting, and more.

In addition, the Oklahoma City Rescue Program supports façade improvements and other exterior building improvements for some affected businesses. The improvements have a $25,000 cap and will be reimbursed to the small business owner after submission of paid invoices. Some of these services may require engineering/architectural services. Small business owners may also apply for technical assistance help, providing up to $15,000 for various services such as marketing new websites, HR, financial, business planning, and architecture and engineering services.

Kenton Tsoodle, president and CEO of the Alliance, said the OKC Rescue Program was designed to meet the most pressing needs while helping the smallest and most vulnerable businesses.

“Research shows that minority-owned businesses have been negatively affected by COVID-19 at a higher and more severe rate, so our programs lowered barriers to entry with fewer financial documents required and a streamlined application process,” said Tsoodle.

To find out how to submit an RFQ to provide technical services as part of the Oklahoma City Small Business Continuity Program, or to apply for the OKC Rescue Program, visit the Alliance’s website at theallianceokc.org.