by 
The Covid-19 outbreak has affected nearly every business sector, market segment, as well as the daily lives of billions of people around the globe. A number of ABO members are small business and startups working to meet the challenge in a variety of ways.
To assist our members and some of their unique needs, we are compiling a list of resources that may be helpful. This list is by no means exhaustive and will be updated as circumstances allow. See something missing? Reach out to us and we’ll be sure to add it.
Basic Guidance on Covid-19
Be sure to consult the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization for some of the latest information about Covid-19 and how to protect yourself.
Federal Funding Opportunities
ABO regularly works with its members to keep them updated on current and upcoming research and commercialization funding opportunities from federal agencies. In some cases, these funding opportunities are moving ahead, and in others we are seeing delays in application deadlines.
- Find the latest information on the DOE’s ARPA-E funding announcements here.
- USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture lists RFA resources here.
Business Assistance
Assistance for businesses in the United States has been made available in emergency legislation. The details are changing so quickly it’s best to consult directly with the relevant federal agencies.
- Small businesses affected by the crisis should consult the U.S. Small Business Administration for information on how to take advantage of relief packages recently passed by Congress.
- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently published this presentation on what small businesses need to know about the Paycheck Protection Loan and the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs
Workplace and Operations
- The CDC also has published guidance on how businesses that are in operation should adjust for the realities of the pandemic. Resources include interim guidance on operations, cleaning and disinfecting recommendations, and how to prepare employees for Covid-19.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is also publishing guidance. OSHA’s Covid Overview page is a good place to start, especially its resources on how OSHA standards apply to protecting workers from COVID-19.
Resources for Startups
ABO member companies are often deploying entirely new technologies that have the potential to disrupt existing markets and create new value. Many are early stage startups or have raised enough funds to begin serving an initial wave of customers. Early this month Forbes examined the impact COVID-19 may have on startup ecosystems.
For those start-ups looking for strategies in the COVID-19 era, here are a few places to start.
- The team at TechCrunch is carefully covering the crisis and its impact on startups. Their coverage can be found here.
- At Geek Wire, a similar effort with some different angles is here.
Remember: This incredibly disruptive crisis will be resolved. Let’s make sure the algae industry is ready to help build a more sustainable and robust future.
