There have been three major announcements related to the COVID-19 crisis that can benefit people and businesses in Wisconsin, where 106 positive tests had been recorded as of 2 p.m. Wednesday:

•           The U.S. Treasury has announced a 90-day tax payment extension for many individuals and corporations. Previously, the tax payment was due April 15, 2020.

•           The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering disaster loan assistance for small businesses hurt by COVID-19. With Gov. Tony Evers making a disaster declaration, disaster assistance loans will be offered up to $2 million. These will give small businesses support to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue due to COVID-19 interruptions. Here is a link to Evers’ declaration.

•           The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. has announced $5 million in targeted grants to small businesses suffering COVID-19 losses.

More information is developing about other federal government actions tied to the emergency.

Do you have news or best practices to contribute to a future edition of Tech Council Current? Contact Laura@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com   

Sincerely,

Tom Still, president

CORONAVIRUS AND OUR TECH COMMUNITY:

The Journal Times: U.S. proposes sending $500 billion in checks to Americans, starting April 6
WEDC approves $5 million in targeted grants to small businesses suffering losses due to coronavirus emergency
CapTimes: As COVID-19 spreads, Madison’s Latinx community mobilizes to support, inform itself
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Demand for toilet paper is rising, and Wisconsin’s $13 billion paper industry could thrive
Channel3000: Evers orders schools closed indefinitely
The Journal Times: Advice from medical experts: Don't get tested for COVID-19 unless you are high risk
WIPFLi: Treasury announces extension of tax payments
TechRepublic: 8 ways tech pros are helping healthcare providers cope with coronavirus
Vox: Scientists warn we may need to live with social distancing for a year or more
LetsTHRIVE360, a Wisconsin startup, discusses its scheduled launch during the coronavirus pandemic.
Madison.com: U.S. coronavirus cases pass 5,000 as economic aid pledged. You might get a check.
Wisconsin State Journal: Food Fight furloughs about 750 employees, in bad sign for independent restaurants
WisPolitics: COVID-19 and Wisconsin elections
S&P Global: COVID-19 Macroeconomic Update: The Global Recession is here and now
Dice: 7 tips for working remotely during the COVID-19 crisis

Midwest LRIG has postponed the previously scheduled 2020 Spring Conference & Technology Exhibition, which will now take place on October 15, 2020 at the same location: Hotel Alexander, Indianapolis, Ind.

The Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce’s previously scheduled programming will be rescheduled, including the annual IceBreaker on April 30. “We will share further details as they become finalized. With the complexity of being the only business event on the floor of the Kohl Center, we greatly appreciate your patience as we work to reschedule this event.”

WISCONSIN and FEDERAL RESOURCES:

·       Centers for Disease Control: Coronavirus latest updates

·       Wisconsin Department of Health Services: COVID-19 Outbreaks in Wisconsin

·       Live dashboard with QUICK NUMBERS and FACTS on the IMPACT of COVID-19

·       WMTV15: Wisconsin schedule changes for events, cities, school and universities.

·       Gov. Evers’ office has launched a statewide COVID-19 website that aggregates information and resources throughout state government.

·       The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development produced this helpful Frequently Asked Questions document.

·       View UW-Madison’s COVID-19 top updates, plans and response.

·       IdeaAdvance: (Remote learning opp.) Get your idea off the ground. Learn more about this $75,000 seed fund.

·       Newance is offering free “Office Hours” for any business leaders who need to talk through remote management, morale or any other concerns. Click here to reach out to Amanda Daering via Calendly.

·       Fiveable offers free AP assistance while in-person “Advanced Placement” high school classes aren’t in session. AP exams through CollegeBoard are still scheduled for May. Learn more.

·       Report any scams or price gouging to Wisconsin Department of Justice: If you suspect fraud or a scam, Attorney General Kaul suggests filing a complaint online at datcp.wi.gov.

·       Access Microsoft’s efforts to help teams work remotely and navigate online.

·       Michael Best has formed a COVID-19 Task Force to address business and legal implications.

·       Reinhart’s Coronavirus Resource Center includes the impact of HR 6201 on employees.

·       BDO monitors the latest COVID-19 business impacts and regulatory updates.

·       SBA: COVID-19: Small business guidance and loan resources

·       ActionCoach is offering a free zoom web event on Friday, March 20 on shifting and adapting your business in response to COVID-19.

·       InBusiness Madison offers tips for professionals suddenly forced into remote work on cybersecurity, what to do with “free” time, and how to manage those distractions known as kids.

·       Wisconsin Veteran’s Chamber of Commerce: Member guide, understanding COVID-19 and how to plan.

·       Learn more about Epic tools that can help you and your organization treat and prevent the spread of COVID-19

·       WIPLFi: Information to help businesses and individuals weather the coronavirus