Lehigh Valley COVID-19 Response Resources

LVEDC continues to assess and report on the effects of COVID-19 on Lehigh Valley’s economy. We update this page with information about resources available to businesses.

Our Credit/Financing Programs for Businesses page has information about financial assistance to small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

Pennsylvania Mitigation Measures

Gov. Tom Wolf lifted the state’s mitigation orders effective May 31, 2021. All businesses, venues, and events may return to 100% capacity.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health recommends Pennsylvanians refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance and recommendations for ongoing COVID-19 safety measures and procedures.

Northampton County Small Business Grant Program

Northampton County’s COVID-19 Relief Small Business Grant program is accepting applications from eligible businesses. Grants of up to $15,000 are available to businesses that operate primarily in Northampton County and have fewer than 100 employees.

The grant program is funded with $15 million the county received through the American Rescue Plan Act and offered in partnership with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. Click here for program information and to apply for funding.

Small Business Administration Relief Programs

The federal government’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) ended May 31, 2021.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program was recently updated. The loan cap was increased from $500,000 to $2 million, and repayment is deferred until 2 years after loan origination. Applications may be filed through Dec. 31, 2021.

The application portal for this SBA program closed Aug. 20, 2021. SVOG provided relief to operators or promoters of live performance venues, theater operators, performing arts organizations, museums, movie theaters, and talent representatives affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

U.S. Rep. Susan Wild announced that more than $20 million in SVOG funding was awarded to venues and organizations in the 7th Congressional District.

For information about PPP loan forgiveness and additional SBA programs, visit www.sba.gov.

Visit LVEDC’s Financing Programs web page for additional information about federal, state, and local financial assistance programs for small businesses.