These funds can also help support costs associated with the MDHHS Emergency Order issued last week, requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural and food processing employees throughout the state. Learn more about the eligibility guidelines for each program at michiganbusiness.org/agsafety.

In an effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19 as students return to Michigan college and university communities, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) will host a series of webinars for retail, bars, restaurants and other businesses in seven Michigan college towns. The information presented in the webinars will help businesses that serve college students understand the most up-to-date rules and protocols they need to protect their patrons, employees and communities this fall. Webinars are scheduled from Aug. 11-21 and local businesses are encouraged to join on the date that coincides with their area.

Small businesses serve as the lifeline for creating authentic experiences in Michigan communities. They drive tourism, create a sense of place, and support local families as they purchase their goods or services or work at local shops. Recognizing their value, community members across the state rallied to support local business owners as they raised donations through the MI Local Biz crowdfunding program. These donations – matched with financial contributions from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – were used to help business owners recover from the negative economic impacts of the COVID-19 virus. Read about three local business owners in Kalamazoo, Marquette and Bay City who successfully met their MI Local Biz campaign goals.

Access additional COVID-19 resources for businesses and communities by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19.

Read more about programs supporting economic recovery for Michigan businesses by visiting michiganbusiness.org/covid19response.

Visit michigan.gov/coronavirus to find other valuable resources for employers, workers, residents and communities.