April 27, 2020

Dear Ironwood Business Owners,

We have been working with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of the Upper Peninsula on ways that we can better serve you during this difficult time. Focused on ways to help businesses adapt to the rapidly changing environment. The Small Business Administration has provided the SBDC with funding to help small businesses one on one. As a result the SBDC is hiring a contractor to work with businesses in Gogebic County. There will also be some funding to help with business development tools like web design and marketing. Here are some links and more information on the program. To be eligible for this program you need to complete a project intake form (see link below). It is worth getting in the process as soon as possible as we believe there will be high demand.

¬ Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC)

The Michigan SBDC offers small business COVID-19 specific assistance and resources, including counseling services, webinars and guidance on critically, and commonly asked questions. Visit https://sbdcmichigan.org/small-business-covid19/ for these resources. For counseling, the first step to request assistance is to complete a project intake form at https://sbdcmichigan.org/request-for-business-counseling/.

Paycheck Protection Program

As a reminder, the Paycheck Protection Program opens today at 9:30 CST. If this is a program that you are interested in, contact your bank immediately to start an application. If you are having trouble with the application let us know and we will do our best to help and/or we will put you in contact with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) here in the UP. Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the program to help you find out if it is right for you.

https://www.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/Final%20PPP%20FAQs%20for%20Lenders%20and%20Borrowers%204-8-20_0.pdf

Keep checking in on the https://www.update906.com/ website to see what new programs are available.

As always, if you have any questions you are welcome to contact me by email or phone at bergmant@cityofironwood.org or at 906-285-9013.

Take care everyone,

Thomas Bergman
Community Development Director

City of Ironwood
213 S. Marquette Street
Ironwood, MI 49938
906-932-5050 ext. 126
www.cityofironwood.org