Baltimore County Chamber of Commerce COVID 19 Policy & Information
The Chamber is pleased to announce that open office hours will resume beginning Monday, September 21st. Chamber staff & services will be available by appointment only Monday - Thursday from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM and Friday from 9:30 AM to Noon. Please call 410-825-6200 for scheduling & inquiries.
We are continuing to monitor reports & information regarding COVID-19 for Baltimore County residents & business owners and working with our partners to stay up to date.
The Chamber wants to underscore the impact that wide-spread panic can have on local business. We know that as members of the community, businesses like yours may also be experiencing unexpected challenges, and we’re committed to providing as much support as possible. Resources for Baltimore County businesses, employers, and residents can be found at the link below.
We are continuing to monitor reports & information regarding COVID-19 for Baltimore County residents & business owners and working with our partners to stay up to date.
The Chamber wants to underscore the impact that wide-spread panic can have on local business. We know that as members of the community, businesses like yours may also be experiencing unexpected challenges, and we’re committed to providing as much support as possible. Resources for Baltimore County businesses, employers, and residents can be found at the link below.
COVID-19 Small Business Assistance
The Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce Development has compiled the following resources regarding available assistance at the federal, state and local levels that is specific to your needs.
Emergency Relief Funds:
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)—The PPP is a provision of the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act has allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. The program provides forgivable loans to nonprofits, sole proprietors and small businesses with fewer than 500 employees if they maintain employment levels for the eight weeks after origination of the loan, or rehire employees already laid off by June 30. Applicants can use the loan to cover payroll, benefits, rent or mortgage, and debt. Applicants need to apply through a local bank. To understand the basic required documents, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has created a sample application to help applicants prepare. The loan amounts can be up to 2.5 times the borrower’s average monthly payroll costs, not to exceed $10 million.
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)—This low-interest Federal Disaster Loan provides up to $2 million in working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury due to COVID-19. These loans were created to alleviate financial strain and allow small businesses to pay bills, payroll and accounts payable, with long-term payments stretching up to 30 years. Small businesses, private non-profit organizations or sole proprietors can apply for the program. Applicants are also eligible for an immediate cash advance of up to $10,000.
State of Maryland Funds:
Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Loan Fund—This $75 million loan fund offers no interest or principal payments due for the first 12 months, then converts to a 36-month term loan of principal and interest payments, with an interest rate at two percent per annum.
Baltimore County is working to assess the critical needs in the Tourism and Arts and Sciences sectors.
Apply for Essential Business Status:
The State will collect information from businesses that deem their services essential. Complete the Essential Status Request form to apply if you would like to be included. Only requests that are submitted through this form will be reviewed.
Ways Your Business Can Help:
The Baltimore County COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund will support the County’s efforts to promote public health and support residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals, foundations and private sector donors can contribute to the fund in order to assist the County’s efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If your company has resources and capabilities that the State may need to assist in COVID-19 efforts, specifically the needs of the health care industry, email [email protected].
Health professionals wishing to volunteer their services can register for Maryland Responds. Learn more about other opportunities to help your fellow Marylanders on the Maryland Unites web page.
Tax Assistance:
The Comptroller of Maryland has extended business tax filing deadlines to June 1 for some businesses with March, April and May due dates. Find more information online or by emailing [email protected].
Transit and Transportation of Goods:
On March 19, the Governor announced significant restrictions related to MARC train, local and commuter bus, and light rail services in order to slow the spread of the virus. Visit the Maryland Transit Administration for updated information.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a national emergency declaration to provide hours-of-service regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting emergency relief in response to COVID-19.
** Note for Chamber Exporters, Freight Forwarders & Couriers: We will continue certifying and notarizing documents via UPS/ FedEx/ USPS and through our online certification system, EssCert. To register for EssCert, please click here.
Emergency Relief Funds:
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)—The PPP is a provision of the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act has allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. The program provides forgivable loans to nonprofits, sole proprietors and small businesses with fewer than 500 employees if they maintain employment levels for the eight weeks after origination of the loan, or rehire employees already laid off by June 30. Applicants can use the loan to cover payroll, benefits, rent or mortgage, and debt. Applicants need to apply through a local bank. To understand the basic required documents, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has created a sample application to help applicants prepare. The loan amounts can be up to 2.5 times the borrower’s average monthly payroll costs, not to exceed $10 million.
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)—This low-interest Federal Disaster Loan provides up to $2 million in working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury due to COVID-19. These loans were created to alleviate financial strain and allow small businesses to pay bills, payroll and accounts payable, with long-term payments stretching up to 30 years. Small businesses, private non-profit organizations or sole proprietors can apply for the program. Applicants are also eligible for an immediate cash advance of up to $10,000.
State of Maryland Funds:
Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Loan Fund—This $75 million loan fund offers no interest or principal payments due for the first 12 months, then converts to a 36-month term loan of principal and interest payments, with an interest rate at two percent per annum.
- Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Grant Fund—This $50 million grant program offers grant amounts up to $10,000, not to exceed three months of demonstrated cash operating expenses for the first quarter of 2020.
- COVID-19 Emergency Relief Manufacturing Fund—This $5 million incentive program helps Maryland manufacturers to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) that is urgently needed by hospitals and healthcare workers across the country.
Baltimore County is working to assess the critical needs in the Tourism and Arts and Sciences sectors.
Apply for Essential Business Status:
The State will collect information from businesses that deem their services essential. Complete the Essential Status Request form to apply if you would like to be included. Only requests that are submitted through this form will be reviewed.
Ways Your Business Can Help:
The Baltimore County COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund will support the County’s efforts to promote public health and support residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Individuals, foundations and private sector donors can contribute to the fund in order to assist the County’s efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
If your company has resources and capabilities that the State may need to assist in COVID-19 efforts, specifically the needs of the health care industry, email [email protected].
Health professionals wishing to volunteer their services can register for Maryland Responds. Learn more about other opportunities to help your fellow Marylanders on the Maryland Unites web page.
Tax Assistance:
The Comptroller of Maryland has extended business tax filing deadlines to June 1 for some businesses with March, April and May due dates. Find more information online or by emailing [email protected].
Transit and Transportation of Goods:
On March 19, the Governor announced significant restrictions related to MARC train, local and commuter bus, and light rail services in order to slow the spread of the virus. Visit the Maryland Transit Administration for updated information.
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a national emergency declaration to provide hours-of-service regulatory relief to commercial vehicle drivers transporting emergency relief in response to COVID-19.
** Note for Chamber Exporters, Freight Forwarders & Couriers: We will continue certifying and notarizing documents via UPS/ FedEx/ USPS and through our online certification system, EssCert. To register for EssCert, please click here.
COVID-19 Baltimore County Resources
Benefit Programs
The CASH Campaign of Maryland is now offering its benefits screening and support services to Baltimore County residents. Callers to 311 can request an appointment to receive a confidential and customized screening for over 20 different benefit programs to help them make ends meet and support their financial future.
These programs include:
COVID 19 Hotline:
The Baltimore County Department of Health has opened a hotline for residents to call with questions or concerns regarding COVID-19. The number is 410-887-3816.
Food Access:
County Executive Olszewski and Baltimore County government are working to protect the health, safety and well-being of residents. We will continue to work around the clock to identify additional resources to provide food security for families during this challenging time. Find food resources in Baltimore County.
All County residents are encouraged to take the proper precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including regular hand-washing and social distancing as appropriate. All residents, and particularly those at high risk, should follow CDC guidance.
Baltimore County Information:
State Information:
Federal Information:
Latest Baltimore County Press Releases:
The CASH Campaign of Maryland is now offering its benefits screening and support services to Baltimore County residents. Callers to 311 can request an appointment to receive a confidential and customized screening for over 20 different benefit programs to help them make ends meet and support their financial future.
These programs include:
- Temporary Cash Assistance
- Temporary Disability Assistance
- SNAP (formerly food stamps)
- Medicaid
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Maryland Utility Assistance
- NeedyMeds (discount pharmacy program)
- Discounted Cellular and Landline Programs
- Maryland Children’s Health Program
- Child Care Subsidy Program
- Child Support Payment Incentive
- Free and Reduced Price School Meals
- Head Start and Early Head Start
- Renters and Homeowners Tax Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Earned Income Tax Credit
COVID 19 Hotline:
The Baltimore County Department of Health has opened a hotline for residents to call with questions or concerns regarding COVID-19. The number is 410-887-3816.
Food Access:
County Executive Olszewski and Baltimore County government are working to protect the health, safety and well-being of residents. We will continue to work around the clock to identify additional resources to provide food security for families during this challenging time. Find food resources in Baltimore County.
- If you have questions or need assistance with food access, call 410-887-2594 or email [email protected].
- If you are a senior, or contacting us on behalf of a senior, with food access needs, call 410-887-2594 or email [email protected]
All County residents are encouraged to take the proper precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including regular hand-washing and social distancing as appropriate. All residents, and particularly those at high risk, should follow CDC guidance.
Baltimore County Information:
- COVID-19 Baltimore County Employee Guide
- Department of Health
- Food Resources in Baltimore County
- Department of Economic and Workforce Development: Resources for Impacted Businesses and Employees
- Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS)
- Community Colleges of Baltimore County (CCBC)
State Information:
Federal Information:
Latest Baltimore County Press Releases:
COVID-19 Workplace Guidance
Keep yourself & employees safe and informed:
Stay up to date by following credible, official sources like the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and your local government health department so you can respond quickly to changes that could affect you or your customers. Avoid fines by closing if you're considered a non-essential business or employee. Guidelines for essential vs. non-essential businesses can be found by clicking here.
For individuals who are concerned about the potential need for testing based on signs and symptoms or the travel guidelines, call your primary care physician office for a phone screening, which will help determine whether you are a potential candidate for testing.
Follow MEMA on Facebook or Website
Follow CDC on Facebook or Website
Follow WHO on Facebook or Website
If you need further state and local resources, please refer to the list below:
Baltimore County COVID-19 Information Line: 410-887-3816
Baltimore County Health Department: 410-887-2243
Maryland Department of Health: 410-767-6500
Keep your staff in mind:
Stay in touch with your customers:
Proactively share important information with your customers using email, your website, Facebook page, Instagram Business Profile, or however you typically connect. Remember that you can pin important posts to the top of your Facebook page for quick viewing. You might include information about the measures you’re taking to make your premises or products safe, or how you will handle customer inquiries if there are expected shipping delays.
Try hosting online events:
In case you need to postpone or cancel any planned events as a result of the outbreak, try hosting a webinar or organize live sessions on social channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.
Prepare a customer service plan:
In order to be responsive and transparent with your customers during this challenging moment, prepare for incoming questions and requests. Consider drafting templated responses for your emails or set up instant-reply messages with information you expect your customers will be looking for. Connect with your customers for free in real time using Instagram Direct Messages , Messenger or setting up a WhatsApp Business profile .
Provide a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs):
Prepare a list of responses for questions your customers are likely to ask, and provide as much detail and reassurance as possible in your answers. Here is an example of what an FAQ could look like:
Q: Can I cancel my order (travel tickets / educational programs / membership)?
A: Of course we will cancel your order / reschedule or cancel your trip / pause your membership on request. Once your order is cancelled, the spend amount from your original purchase will be refunded to your account. We look forward to doing business with you again soon. We sincerely appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support during this time.
Stay up to date by following credible, official sources like the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and your local government health department so you can respond quickly to changes that could affect you or your customers. Avoid fines by closing if you're considered a non-essential business or employee. Guidelines for essential vs. non-essential businesses can be found by clicking here.
For individuals who are concerned about the potential need for testing based on signs and symptoms or the travel guidelines, call your primary care physician office for a phone screening, which will help determine whether you are a potential candidate for testing.
Follow MEMA on Facebook or Website
Follow CDC on Facebook or Website
Follow WHO on Facebook or Website
If you need further state and local resources, please refer to the list below:
Baltimore County COVID-19 Information Line: 410-887-3816
Baltimore County Health Department: 410-887-2243
Maryland Department of Health: 410-767-6500
Keep your staff in mind:
- Review, update, or develop workplace plans to include:
- Liberal leave and telework policies
- Revised leave policies for people with COVID-19 symptoms
- Alternate team approaches for work schedules
- Encourage employees to stay home and notify workplace administrators when sick (workplaces should provide non-punitive sick leave options to allow staff to stay home when ill)
- Encourage personal protective measures among staff (e.g., stay home when sick, hand-washing, respiratory etiquette)
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily
- Ensure hand hygiene supplies are readily available in building
- Implement social distancing measures
- Stagger work schedules
- Decrease social contacts in the workplace (e.g., limit in-person meetings, meeting for lunch in a break room, etc.)
- Limit large work-related gatherings (e.g., staff meetings, after-work functions)
- Limit non-essential work travel
- Ensure flexible leave policies for staff who need to stay home due to school/childcare dismissals
Stay in touch with your customers:
Proactively share important information with your customers using email, your website, Facebook page, Instagram Business Profile, or however you typically connect. Remember that you can pin important posts to the top of your Facebook page for quick viewing. You might include information about the measures you’re taking to make your premises or products safe, or how you will handle customer inquiries if there are expected shipping delays.
Try hosting online events:
In case you need to postpone or cancel any planned events as a result of the outbreak, try hosting a webinar or organize live sessions on social channels such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or LinkedIn.
Prepare a customer service plan:
In order to be responsive and transparent with your customers during this challenging moment, prepare for incoming questions and requests. Consider drafting templated responses for your emails or set up instant-reply messages with information you expect your customers will be looking for. Connect with your customers for free in real time using Instagram Direct Messages , Messenger or setting up a WhatsApp Business profile .
Provide a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs):
Prepare a list of responses for questions your customers are likely to ask, and provide as much detail and reassurance as possible in your answers. Here is an example of what an FAQ could look like:
Q: Can I cancel my order (travel tickets / educational programs / membership)?
A: Of course we will cancel your order / reschedule or cancel your trip / pause your membership on request. Once your order is cancelled, the spend amount from your original purchase will be refunded to your account. We look forward to doing business with you again soon. We sincerely appreciate your patience, understanding, and continued support during this time.
Please note: If you have any questions regarding the Chamber's cancellations of any upcoming events/meetings, contact us by clicking the button below or by phone at (410) 825-6200.
