The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation says there aren’t enough government loans and grants to go around to help small businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
But the group has tried to compile everything available as a service to businesses, says Executive Director Kathy Schmitz.
“We are turning over every stone that we can to try to help people,” said Executive Director Kathy Schmitz. “This is financial, it’s emotional. There is dignity in working, and people want to get back to work.”
The corporation has set up a guide on its website and is also offering webinars and other resources.
Schmitz said the virus is a serious threat to the survival of many businesses in the area.
“These are people who have dedicated their whole lives, and are from here, and have owned these businesses for years, and are part of the community, are part of the fabric of this community,” she said. “They’re just devastated because many of them are month-to-month.”
The corporation is hoping people lobby their representatives for more government funding for small business relief.
