Coronavirus (COVID-19) Financial Relief for Nonprofits: Loans & Grants

April 7, 2020

Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Financial Relief for Nonprofits: Loans & GRANTS

*Editor’s note: This post was originally published 4/7/20. Here is an update on 4/22/20:

On April 21st, the Senate approved a second funding deal of $484 billion in additional federal funding for coronavirus relief. Congress is set to add $320 billion more for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), $60 billion of which would be set aside for small lenders. The PPP passed on March 27th ran out of the initial $349 billion the federal government earmarked for it in just under two weeks, so don’t wait to apply.


 

On March 27th, Congress unanimously passed the largest economic relief package in US history. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a $2 trillion plan to provide financial relief to businesses, families, and individuals.

 

So what does this Federal emergency funding mean for nonprofits?

If you’re a nonprofit with less than 500 employees, you could be eligible for a loan of up to $10 million to cover payroll and operations expenses, which will be forgiven in whole or part, as long as you keep your staff. This effectively means the government is giving out grants – all you have to do is avoid layoffs. This is part of the Paycheck Protection Program.*

The Paycheck Protection Program program launched on April 3rd, so don’t wait to apply for relief. The deadline is June 30th, 2020.

In addition to this, there are two types of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) offered. Under the standard EIDL, “private” nonprofits are eligible for up to $2 million.

The Council of Nonprofits lead a webinar that does a fantastic job breaking down the components of the CARES Act and delineating how nonprofits can receive these benefits:

 

If you’re in doubt about whether your organization qualifies for a loan program, the Independent Sector is sharing tips on how to file for relief. They recommend that you file and let the Small Business Administration (SBA) decide, as they are expected to take a broad approach to eligibility. So when in doubt, file.

 

Grant opportunities

Hundreds of U.S. community foundations have joined the ranks in creating, mobilizing, and donating to relief funds directed to the critical relief efforts of local nonprofits to support those affected by COVID-19.

 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR NONPROFITS DURING CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

 

Disclaimer: Please note that this is our best understanding of the new resources available and is not legal or financial advice.

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