MWBE News and Events for April 2020
The MWBE Program Office Thanks URA Staff Volunteers
On March 5, 2020, the MWDBE Governmental Committee hosted its 19th annual conference. The free event, which was held at River's Casino, provided a venue for MWDBE firms to mingle with event sponsors and a wide range of representatives from government agencies and support entities.
The URA's information table was staffed by Charles Hudson and Paul Martinchich, who were joined by the URA’s Nazin Bagherynejad, Ashley Chipps and Pierce Robinson. The MWBE Program Office extends its gratitude to all, for welcoming the attendees with warm smiles, great enthusiasm and expertise.
Conference attendees also had an opportunity to become familiar with URA executive director, Greg Flisram. Executive Director Flisram, who relocated to Pittsburgh in mid-January for this leadership opportunity, actively engaged in a panel discussion that focused on local opportunities for MWDBE firms and shared his insight on compliance practices that are being implemented elsewhere in the country. Along with the MWBE Program Office, the MWDBE Governmental Committee thanks Executive Director Flisram for his willingness to participate.
Resources During the COVID-19 Crisis
MWBE businesses are encouraged to visit the URA’s COVID-19 page to learn more about resources, webinars, and programs available to help during this unprecedented time.
Paycheck Protection Program Assistance
The SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities.
Neighborhood Allies recently hosted a public webinar on how to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program. View it here.
In addition, Neighborhood Allies is offering assistance to small businesses and nonprofits with applications to its partner bank, First Commonwealth Bank, for the PPP. Email paycheckprotection@neighborhoodallies.org for help.
Additional assistance with applications is being offered through the following organizations:
- Duquesne University Small Business Development Center
- Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University
- Pittsburgh Chapter of SCORE
