The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. Known as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the initiative provides 100% federally guaranteed loans to small businesses. Importantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers maintain their payrolls during the crisis or restore their payrolls afterward.
Additionally, at the state level, Nebraska small business owners affected by COVID-19 since the beginning of January, 2020 can apply for a low-interest EDIL. The annual interest rate for small business is 3.75% and for nonprofits is 2.75%. No payments are due on these loans for the first year. The SBA will loan out up to $2 million for up to 30 years.