Here’s a roundup of resources that can help during the North Texas deep freeze and its aftermath. You’ll also find COVID-19 assistance. 

For organizations such as the Dallas Regional Chamber, UNT Health Science Center, the UTD Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the City of Fort Worth, and the U.S. India Chamber of Commerce are distributing vital information for COVID-19 and other relief. For links to these organizations and others, go here.

Help us stay up to date by submitting information on new grants, funding, and other business resources.

Feb. 19

[Image: istockphoto]

⟫ The Dallas Short Term Rental Alliance is offering a new emergency accommodations program. Alliance members are opening their homes to people who need shelter due to the winter storm emergency. It’s connecting short-term rental hosts and property managers with people in need. If you have space or need space, learn more here.

⟫ U-Haul is offering free self-storage and U-Box container usage for up to 30 days to Texas residents impacted by the winter storms and power outages, reports the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

⟫ This map connects people in need in the Texas freeze with nearby volunteers, per Fast Company.

⟫ Can I shower? Can I wash my hands? Here’s what to know if you’re under a boil water notice, via WFAA.

⟫ Here’s what to do if you need to file insurance claims because of the Texas winter storms, according to the same media site.

⟫ If your pipes burst in the freeze, water can begin gushing in the thaw. Here’s how to turn off the water and other tips for the melt, via the Advocate.

⟫ Texas is permitting out-of-state, expired-license plumbers amid high demand in the aftermath of the North Texas deep freeze. NBCDFW has tips.

⟫ Here’s how to get your family through an extreme weather event: Take these steps when critical services are affected by freezing temperatures, via The New York Times.

Feb. 17

TOOLBOX: The Extreme Cold Edition

Dallas-Fort Worth recorded a new record low (-2 degrees) this week. As of Tuesday, more than 1.2 million North Texans have lost power in an unprecedented winter storm. Below is a roundup of resources and how to help.

⟫ This Fort Worth logistics startup is delivering free firewood in DFW. 

⟫  How to help and get help as the winter storm causes power outages across Texas, via The Texas Tribune.

⟫  Rotating power outages: Common questions answered, via WFAA.

⟫  North Texas counties, cities, others open warming shelters for residents without power, via The Dallas Morning News.

⟫ Coping with winter plumbing emergencies at work and home? Tip No. 1 from the Dallas Builders Association: If experiencing or fearing frozen or broken pipes, turn off the water, stat, via D Magazine.

⟫  How to help homeless Dallasites weather the storm, via D Magazine.

⟫  How to help feed people in need during Dallas’ winter weather crisis, via Dallas Eater.

⟫  Find Oncor’s interactive outage map here.

Feb. 5

⟫ February is Black History Month. The annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans is a time for recognizing the key role of Black Americans in U.S. history. Our partners at the Dallas Regional Chamber have put together resources to help you better understand Black history and celebrate those achievements. 

⟫ The Small Business Continuity Fund in Dallas has opened a second round of applications for its grant program. A partnership of the Office of Economic Development, Dallas Development Fund , and National Development Council designed the program to assist low-to-moderate (LMI) microenterprise business owners with 5 or fewer employees or small businesses with 50 or fewer employees that retain LMI workers within the city. Apply by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 10.

⟫ The Arts Community Alliance (or TACA) expanded its Pop-Up Grant program, which launched last summer as part of the group’s TACA Resiliency Initiative (TRI). The expansion includes a new source of funding for individual artists—Artist Bonus funds. Check out recipients of the monthly Pop-Up Grants here.

Jan. 29

⟫ VACCINES & THE WORKPLACE:  Holmes Murphy Compliance Director Claire Pancerz (above) provides guidance on how companies can successfully plan and implement a COVID-19 vaccination program in the workplace, educate employees about the vaccines, and encourage compliance. Pancerz also discusses costs associated with vaccination in a Q&A. It’s part of an ongoing “Confronting COVID-19” series presented by the DRC. 

⟫ JOB HUNTING?: Dallas-Fort Worth is home to 24 Fortune 500 and 44 Fortune 1000 companies. Explore them on this interactive map and find your next place to work. 

Jan. 22

⟫ DOUBLING UP: Two PPP loans in the same round? Experts say it’s possble, the Washington Business Journal reports. As one Paycheck Protection Program expert notes, “a savvy eligible small business which desires to take advantage of this unusual opportunity must act fast — by not only applying for and obtaining the funds in the next two weeks, but also by spending the funds obtained from the first-draw PPP loan on authorized purposes in the first eight weeks after the lender’s disbursement of the funds.” Still, she adds, “I doubt very much that Congress had this concept in mind.” And the SBA could issue new guidance at any time.

Craig Scheef, CEO and co-founder of Dallas-based Texas Security Bank

⟫  “Most people have no idea the risk business builders take,” says Texas Security Bank CEO Craig Scheef, who is inspired by those he calls “Champions of Free Enterprise.” Scheef co-founded the Dallas-based independent bank in 2008 to serve business owners and entrepreneurs and help them in difficult times. Last year, the CEO knew it was critical to get ahead of the PPP curve to help customers with “lifeline loans,” re-engineering processes to work fast. Inundated with PPP applications, the bank funded 994 of them for a total of more than $245 million. Now the team is starting to process the next round of PPP applications.

Jan. 15

[Image: istockphoto/petmal]

⟫ POWER PARTNER:  Per the nonprofit Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), a Japanese company working alongside Toyota on their Fuel Cell Vehicle project is seeking a U.S. partner to manufacture and/or design Power Conditioning Systems. The aim is to jointly develop a system in the U.S. for this project. The deadline to inquire is Jan. 22. Learn more here.

⟫ PPP PORTAL: The federal Paycheck Protection Program program opened to some community-based lenders on Monday, with a second round of eligible lenders ($1B or less in assets) that begin accepting applications today, the SBA says.  On Tuesday, Jan. 19, the PPP will open to eligible lenders regardless of size.

⟫ BUSINESS RESILIENCE:  The COVID-19 Business Resiliency Program is designed to help businesses recover from the pandemic. Thanks to funding from the CARES act, the DFW WBC LiftFund can offer the program free of charge to a limited number of people. The program runs Jan. 25 to Feb. 15 and is limited to 20 people. Apply by Jan. 19. 

Jan. 8

⟫ NEW ROUND OF PPP LOANS: The Paycheck Protection Program will reopen on Monday, Jan. 11 for new borrowers and certain existing ones, the SBA announced today. The latest COVID-19 relief bill authorizes up to $284 billion for a new round of PPP loans that prioritizes Americans employed by small businesses. In order to promote access to capital, the SBA says “initially only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP Loans on Monday, January 11, and Second Draw PPP Loans on Wednesday, January 13.” The program opens to other participating lenders shortly thereafter, per the SBA. 

⟫ ACCESS TO CAPITAL: The SBA also issued new guidance on accessing capital for minority, underserved, veteran, and women-owned businesses. People experiencing difficulty in obtaining a PPP Loan can contact their local SBA district office for assistance. Here’s where to find an office near you.

⟫ STARTUP GUIDELINES:  What should founders know about the new round of PPP loans? Crunchbase has a rundown.

Dec. 4

NOV. 20

[Illustration: Courtesy Republic]

⟫ Republic Cities launched its investment platform in Dallas this week. The funding platform allows startups to raise up to $1 million from anyone—friends, family, fans, and the general public. Local startups can now be highlighted on the platform and participate in a campaign raise. Founders from virtually any industry, from edtech and blockchain to cannabis and retail, are invited to apply. The community platform is a boon for investors, too, says James Jang, who is founder of Optab and also on Republic’s local team. Republic aims to make it easy and accessible: “Anyone, regardless of accreditation status, can invest as little as $50 into deals on Republic, and can even invest with their credit card,”  he says.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Hilti North America is hiring managers, engineers, architects, and more… explore jobs.
• CVS Health is hiring pharmacists, technicians, store associates, and more… explore jobs.
• Texas Scottish Rite for Children is hiring specialists, physical therapists, technologists, and more… explore jobs.
• JCPenney is hiring for more than 6,000 roles… explore jobs.
• Dallas Innovates is seeking an advertising executive to join the sales team … apply here. 

NOV. 13

⟫ Nonprofit Capital Good Fund, which works to help families build their credit and avoid high-interest loans through equitable loans and financial coaching, is expanding to Texas as part of JPMorgan Chase’s $125 million commitment to financial health with additional support from a $50,000 grant from United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. Founder Andy Posner says the organization will give hundreds of low-income Texans “a long-overdue alternative to the state’s payday loan industry … and other predatory actors—such as rent-to-own stores and auto-title and buy-here-pay-here auto lenders,” Posner said.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Axxess is hiring engineers and sales associates… explore jobs.
• HEB/Central Market is hiring sales representatives, production specialists, cashiers, and more… explore jobs.
• UPS is hiring supervisors, drivers, seasonal workers, and more… explore jobs.
• Frito-Lay is hiring mechanics, technicians, sale representatives, and more… explore jobs.
• Dallas Innovates is seeking an advertising executive to join the sales team … apply here. 

NOV. 6

NEW RULES

[Image: koratmember/istockphoto]

⟫  Raising money through regulation crowdfunding just became a much easier way for entrepreneurs to get capital, thanks to a new provision from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The limit for regulation crowdfunding jumped from $1.07 million to $5 million, which means companies can raise more securities without having to register the transaction with the SEC.

⟫  Applications have opened for Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, a free program to give participants skills in negotiation, marketing, planning, financial education, and hiring, retaining, and leading employees. The deadline is Jan. 7, 2021.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Michaels is hiring people for about 16,000 seasonal jobs… explore jobs.
• 7-Eleven is hiring managers, sales associates, operators, and more… explore jobs
• Methodist Health System is hiring registered nurses, emergency specialists, seasonal positions, and more… explore jobs.
• OCC is hiring a senior compliance officer, cloud engineers, and an application developer… explore jobs.
• Dallas Innovates is seeking an advertising executive to join the sales team … apply here. 

OCT. 30

⟫  DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, will disburse $1 million on schedule for its first wave of CARES Act Rent Relief to eligible Dallas residents who applied. Another $3 million round of rent relief assistance will be distributed by December 2020. The City of Dallas COVID-19 Rent Relief program, which is funded by the CARES Act, has made key changes to make it easier for those in need to access the funds: Caps have been lifted to $5,000 for eligible applicants for up to six months (through December 2020) and landlords with eligible tenants behind on rent can begin the process on their behalf here. Tenants behind on rent due to COVID can apply here. 

⟫  As COVID cases continue to rise, Vista Bank has six tips on what small business owners can start doing to navigate a prolonged pandemic, which includes information on a potential new PPP program and new guidelines for PPP forgiveness.

OCT. 23

⟫  The U.S. Department of Commerce has launched a $25 million SPRINT Challenge to solve pandemic problems—both present and future—and secure American competitiveness through innovation and entrepreneurship. The challenge—Scaling Pandemic Resilience Through Innovation and Technology, or SPRINT—will award individual grants of up to $500,000 over a 12-month period of performance or up to $750,000 over an 18-month period of performance. Focus areas include innovative biotechnology; health security; supply chain technologies; connectivity across innovation clusters to support commercialization and entrepreneurship; investment capital models to address the financial needs of entrepreneurs; virtual and remote work environments; and more. The deadline to apply is Dec. 3.

⟫  Encore Bank, a private boutique bank with a commercial focus, recently launched two new lines of business, Small Business by Encore and Speciality Finance by Encore. The move adds SBA lending and equipment finance to its offerings.  Julie Fuller Jones lead the small business product line and grows a new set of clients in the SBA lending space. Encore Bank President Phillip Jett announced the expansion of Encore Bank into Dallas-Fort Worth last month.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Raytheon Technologies is hiring for more than 3,000 open roles … explore jobs.
• Dollar General is hiring in retail, distribution, fleet, and more… explore jobs.
• Hilti North America is hiring project managers, development leads and engineers, and more… explore jobs. 
• CVS Health announced plans to hire 15,000 workers to prepare for expected increases in coronavirus and flu cases… explore jobs.
• Dallas Innovates is seeking an advertising executive to join the sales team … apply here. 

OCT. 16

⟫  B.U.I.L.D., or “Broadening Urban Investment to Leverage Dallas,” was launched alongside the Dallas Forward initiative earlier this year. The program aims to help entrepreneurs, freelancers, and creatives to find the resources that can help support and grow their ventures.

⟫  The largest annual open-innovation matching event of its kind in Asia will be held online in March 2021, giving Dallas innovators a chance to take part with no travel required. The 8th Innovation Leaders Summit (ILS) is open to U.S. companies and features “Power Matching,” a one-on-one meeting program that’s generated some 2,000 business meetings and 1,000 alliance deals.  A contest—the Tokyo Challenge 100—will also match collaborators on business themes submitted by major corporations. The focus is on startups, but all companies are urged to apply. Fields include semiconductors, energy, digital health, robotics, biotech, AI, VR, finance, IoT, and more. The first deadline is Nov. 4, 2020. While ILS is an invitation-only event, JETRO can help: Contact the Houston arm of the Japan External Trade Organization for criteria and assistance.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Fidelity Investments is hiring 550 financial advisors, representatives, and customer service workers… explore jobs.
• Paycom is hiring team leads, sales representatives, technicians, and more… explore jobs.
• BrightSpring Health is hiring support professionals, physical therapists, talent development specialists, and more… explore jobs. 
• Kroger is hiring pharmacy technicians and clerks in the Dallas Region… explore jobs.

OCT. 9

⟫  The Small Business Administration and the Department of Treasury have announced a simplified loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans under $50,000. Go here to view instructions for the new application and here for the Interim Final Rule on the process.

⟫  The National Association for the Self-Employed has created a new COVID-19 resource page for small businesses that lists supportive resources and information.

⟫  The Texas Woman’s University Center for Women Entrepreneurs has a StartHER grant program that helps women business owners. Up to 10 business owners will be picked to receive a $5,000 grant. Applications are due Oct. 16 at 5 p.m. central time.

⟫  The deadline looms for local Texas governments to request Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Coronavirus Relief Fund (CRF) allocations, according to Dallas-based Carrington Coleman. The state has made clear there will be no extensions to the Oct. 16 deadline: “If there is any question about the need for the funds, we recommend going forward with the request,” attorney Bruce Hendrick said in a news release. “If a decision is subsequently made not to use the funds, they simply must be returned to the state by Dec. 15. No harm, no foul.”

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• Baylor Scott & White is hiring registered nurses, medical assistants, support analysts, and more… explore jobs.
• Martin Marietta is hiring load operators, a financial analysis lead, plant operators, and more… explore jobs.
• Tom Thumb and Albertsons are hiring in retail, corporate, pharmacy, supply chain, and more… explore jobs. 
• TruePoint Communications is hiring an account supervisor, account executives, and a social media manager… explore jobs.

OCT. 2

⟫  Builders of Hope will bring small business resources to West Dallas through a partnership with the Dallas Collaborative for Equitable Development. The resources are geared to the creation of affordable housing, small business development and lending, and job training. For more information, head here.

⟫  CERF+, the”artist’s safety net,” is a national nonprofit that provides help to U.S. craft artists with training, emergency relief funds, and more. Artists with career-threatening emergencies can apply for financial assistance through a Craft Emergency Relief Fund on a rolling basis.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. Here’s a sampling of who’s hiring:  

• UnitedHealth Group is hiring nurse practitioners, coordinators, engineers, and more… explore jobs.
• Wayfair is hiring warehouse workers, transportation planners, and equipment operators… explore jobs.
• Whole Foods is looking for cashiers, shoppers, and grocery team members throughout the Dallas Region… explore jobs. 
• The Crowther Group is hiring project managers, estimators, and assistants… explore jobs.

SEPT. 25

⟫   SBA loans, which are evolving fast in the pandemic, are available to any small business. Inc. Magazine breaks down the loan types, the process, and what you need to qualify in a guide.

⟫   Start Small Think Big Start provides free legal services to entrepreneurs through its in-house experts and pro bono partners. Apply here.

⟫   Wells Fargo has a supplier diversity program. The company says its certified diverse suppliers have a broad range of opportunities to participate in supplier contracts. Here’s how to participate.

⟫   JETRO assists companies in investing and doing business in Japan. If you want to explore open a branch office, establish an R&D facility, or form a joint venture, the trade organization offers resources, including direct access to the Invest Japan Business Support Centers for market information; legal and other consultation; and tech partner matching. It can also help with temporary office space in Tokyo and five other Japanese cities. In the U.S. South Central Region, contact Keith Sanders for more information.

[Illustration: wildpixel/iStock]

⟫   Japanese IT giant Fujitsu offers an accelerator program. Now virtual in the pandemic, it’s a unique opportunity for North Texas entrepreneurs. 

TALENT POOL

Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week, you’ll find:  

• Match Group is hiring engineers, litigation counsel, and marketing personnel… explore jobs.
• VA North Texas Health Care System has open positions including physicians, nurses, and other medical support… explore jobs.
• UPS is hiring ramp container controllers, delivery drivers, and seasonal package drivers… explore jobs. 
• Winco is hiring grocery clerks and stockers throughout the region… explore jobs.

SEPT. 18

HISPANIC-OWNED BUSINESS RESOURCES
It’s Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct.15), and our partners at The DEC Network have a collection of resources for businesses, including:

• Google is offering resources and ways to connect for small business owners during Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct.15), per our partners at The DEC Network. From free virtual workshops to digital coaching to online “primers” and video tutorials, the program is designed to help businesses adapt and grow.
• EY is seeking Black and Latinx Companies for its Entrepreneurs Access Network, an expansion of the firm’s current programs (such as Entrepreneur of the Year) that help entrepreneurs succeed. EY developed the program “to help Black and Latinx companies bridge the disparity gap and achieve new heights.” Apply here.
• Hispanics in Philanthropy’s PowerUp Fund wants to set businesses up for success in the digital era. Its PowerUp Program will award more than 500 eligible Latinx small businesses across Texas, California, and New York with a $5,000 grant, along with coaching support and other resources. 

PPP LOAN FORGIVENESS
Confused about how to get your PPP loan forgiven? The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has a guide.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week, you’ll find:  

• Amazon is hiring more than 6,500 workers in Dallas ahead of the holiday season… explore jobs. 
• Parkland is hiring registered nurses, medical technicians, researchers, social workers, professional services, and more… explore jobs. 
• Shipt is looking for shoppers and offering up to $22 per hour… explore jobs. 
• Donato Technologies is hiring analysts, engineers, .Net and Java developers, and more… explore jobs.

SEPT. 11

Revive Dallas Small Business Relief Fund Distributes $1.1M in Forgivable Loans and Second Round of Funding to Close

Photo: Michael Samples

The Revive Dallas Small Business Relief Fund has awarded $1.1 million dollars in forgivable loans ranging from $7,500 to $25,000 to the Dallas small business community. Funding has been approved for 54 companies: 75 percent of fund recipients are minority-owned businesses and 60 percent of the recipients are businesses owned by women, an organization spokesperson told Dallas Innovates via email.

The fund opened a second round of funding, which has now closed for new applications. For businesses that pre-qualified, the application deadline is Monday, Sept. 14. To qualify, a Dallas-based business must have fewer than 15 employees and a 2019 annual revenue of less than $1.5 million. The business also must be able to demonstrate a 15 percent or more loss of business due to COVID-19. Go here for more information.

Black Founders Development Program and Fund

Accenture Ventures has established a new Black Founders Development Program, which will support black technology startup founders and entrepreneurs. The program aims to provide direct access to venture capital, corporate mentorship, and strategic connections. Accenture is also creating a Black Founders Development Fund to directly invest in black-founded and -run startups. The fund, with an initial focus on North America, plans to expand globally. Both programs are part of Accenture’s broader effort to fight racism, the company told Dallas Innovates in an email. 

Black Founders Development Program and Fund

Accenture Ventures has established a new Black Founders Development Program, which will support black technology startup founders and entrepreneurs. The program aims to provide direct access to venture capital, corporate mentorship, and strategic connections. Accenture is also creating a Black Founders Development Fund to directly invest in black-founded and -run startups. The fund, with an initial focus on North America, plans to expand globally. Both programs are part of Accenture’s broader effort to fight racism, the company told Dallas Innovates in an email. 

“Black entrepreneurs continue to innovate, but face bias and lack access to capital and opportunity in the venture capital community, receiving a disproportionately small amount of funding,” said Paul Daugherty, chief technology officer at Accenture. “Big change is clearly needed, and Accenture Ventures will help lead that change.”

Launched in 2015, Accenture Ventures matches the capabilities of emerging technology startups with the business needs and priorities of Accenture’s clients and makes targeted equity investments.

Capital One, GoFundMe, and National Urban League Unite in Coalition for Small Business National Advocacy Program

Background video screenshot courtesy Capital One

The new nationwide movement and advocacy program called Small Unites aims to help small business owners and entrepreneurs “thrive in the new normal” with a $50M collective investment from a diverse group of companies.

Launched on August 31, the effort is powered by a coalition of companies including Capital One Business, GoFundMe, the National Urban League, HundredX, and Ogilvy. Small Unites hopes to encourage people to “donate, shop, share” in support of their favorite small businesses, according to a news release.

The program offers a toolkit for small business owners.

Dallas-Based Integrality Helps Borrowers and Lenders Navigate PPP Loan Forgiveness

Cynthia Nevels [Photo: Jeremy Patton]

Dallas-based Integrality founder Cynthia Nevels wants to make applying for loan forgiveness with the Paycheck Protection Program easier through her new online platform. Nevel’s company has been providing small businesses with help accessing capital and advising through a partnership with Dallas College and the Dallas Collaborative for Equitable Development (DCED). The user-friendly portal allows borrowers to securely provide data and documents.

The firm’s goal is to help both borrowers and lenders, Nevels said. 

Let’s Grow North Texas Business

Led by The DEC Network, this one-stop-shop of resources was created through a collaborative partnership that includes nearly 100 business support organizations across the North Texas region. Its hub of resources are intended to help small business owners and entrepreneurs make it through the uncertain times created by COVID-19.

Collin County CARES Small Business Grants

Grant applications are open for Collin County businesses not located in the City of Dallas, which have suffered business losses due to the pandemic. Businesses with less than $5 million in gross revenues and fewer than 100 full-time equivalent employees may be eligible. Applications are open until Sept. 25.

Garland Health Facilities Development Corporation (GHFDC) 2020-21 grant programs

Funds are available to support public or nonprofit health care service organizations that have need of medical supplies, medical equipment, and repair or construction of medical facilities, per the City of Garland. Applications close at 5 p.m. on Oct. 30.

Preserve the Fort Grant Program Opens Second Round

Applications for the second round of Fort Worth’s business grant program, Preserve the Fort, have opened. Nearly $9 million is available to help local businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The grants are funded from a portion of the City of Fort Worth’s CARES Act allocation. Applications close at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 2.

Talent Pool

Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week, you’ll find:  

• Costco is hiring delivery drivers, warehouse and store workers, and more… explore jobs. 
• Medical City is hiring nurses, patient care technicians, technologists, and more… explore jobs. 
• FedEx Ground is hiring full-time and part-time package handlers in the Dallas Region… explore jobs. 
• Fidelity Investments is hiring engineers, customer associates, consultants, and more… explore jobs.
  
  

AUG. 28

• In Fort Worth, a second round of the Preserve the Fort fund could provide up to $8.8 million, with specific categories for nonprofits, as well as bars and music venues closed by Gov. Greg Abbott’s June 26 decree. The application window is expected to open in early September. The Fort Worth Business Press has the details.
• Tarrant County, which received its own CARES Act funding, plans to open a second round of small business assistance that “could help some small businesses that may have felt left out,” NBCDFW reports.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week, you’ll find:  

• CVS Health is hiring pharmacy technicians, managers, management trainees, concierges, and more… explore jobs. 
• From nurses to chefs, radiation technicians to vice presidents, Texas Health Resources is hiring at hospitals throughout the Dallas Region… explore jobs. 
• Amazon is hiring warehouse, shopper, Amazon Air, and customer service teams in the Dallas Region… explore jobs. 
• Lockheed Martin is hiring engineers, managers, web developers, and more in the Dallas Region… explore jobs

AUGUST 21

• DHA Housing Solutions for North Texas will help facilitate the distribution of City of Dallas rent relief funds from the federal CARES Act. The organization is authorized to distribute just over $4 million in funding through its program that’s designed to give consideration to the most vulnerable neighborhoods across the city and distribute funds equitably, it says. Applications for rental assistance due to hardships created by the COVID-19 pandemic open on August 24.
• The City of Irving has a new program that will provide up to $50,000 In forgivable loans for small businesses hurt by the pandemic, per CBSN DFW. Pre-applications are accepted August 24 to September 6.
• The City of Dallas invites nonprofits to apply for funding to help food deserts. Applications will remain open until $1 million in CARES act funds for the “Making Food Accessible” project is completely committed and/or no longer available.
• Need a refresher on the occupancy guidelines for events and businesses in Texas? The Fort Worth Business Press has a handy rundown.

TALENT POOL
Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week, you’ll find:  

• Hilti North America is hiring warehouse positions, service representatives, solutions architects, and more… explore jobs. 
• North Texas Food Bank has positions in warehouse operations, accounting and finance, community impact, and more… explore jobs. 
• HEB/Central Market has various open positions including sales representatives, parking lot attendants, deli and produce managers, and more… explore jobs. 
• UnitedHealth Group is hiring customer service and clinical positions… explore jobs

AUGUST 14

• North Texas Cares, a funder collaborative with a common application form, has opened its second phase of applications. North Texas Cares initially launched in March to provide support for organizations that work with people and communities most affected by COVID-19. 1,400 grants totaling more than $40 million from 30 plus funders were awarded to 630 area nonprofits between April and mid-July. Submissions will be accepted between now and October 2. Check the website for more information on the funds and a shared application intended to streamline the process.
• Proposals for the South Dallas/Fair Park Opportunity Fund are now being accepted, but hurry: The deadline is Aug. 21, 5 p.m. A new notice of funding availability is for the award of human development grants for initiatives in neighborhoods surrounding Fair Park. Grants must accomplish progress toward one of the five opportunity fund program goals including workforce participation and readiness; stimulating small business activity and growth; improving health outcomes. improving public safety, and improving educational outcomes. For details on the grant and service areas, head here. 
• The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce has a COVID-19 Resource Center and can help Black-owned businesses get SBA loans faster through their partnership with myCaresAct, according to The DEC.

TALENT POOL
Explore jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week you’ll find:  

• Target is hiring security, merchandising, and food and beverage service positions at its Dallas region stores… explore jobs. 
• From nurses to research analysts, Texas Scottish Rite is looking for professionals to join the team… explore jobs. 
• Frito-Lay North America is hiring mechanics, technicians, sales representatives, and more… explore jobs. 
• OCC, the world’s largest equity derivatives clearing organization, is hiring several high-tech positions including developers and a cloud engineer… explore jobs.

AUGUST 7

• The City of Dallas, Dallas Housing Authority (DHA), the United Way, and other nonprofits have teamed up to help people in need from the impact of COVID-19. The new partnership will open applications for the CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Fund Emergency (CRF) Short Term Rental Assistance Program in the coming weeks.
• In May, Hoblitzelle Foundation pivoted its funding priority to exclusively COVID relief. For the upcoming cycle, the foundation will provide COVID relief as well as capital projects of nonprofits in Texas. “We’ve seen an increase in requests for assistance with renovations and technology platforms to allow agencies to deliver services virtually,” according to a spokesperson. Proposals submitted from June 15-August 15 will be considered by the end of September.

TALENT POOL
Explore jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. This week you’ll find:  

• Axxess, a fast-growing home health care technology company, is hiring a sales associate, an operations coordinator, and a PHP engineer… explore jobs. 
• 7-Eleven is looking for store employees and sales associates throughout the Dallas Region… explore jobs. 
• Methodist Health System is looking for registered nurses, medical technologists, professional services, and more… explore jobs. 
• PepsiCo is hiring sales representatives, supply chain technicians, IT specialists, and more… explore jobs.

JULY 31

• The Office of Economic Development in Dallas has partnered with fintech company SizeUp on a tool that lets small- and medium-sized businesses rank their performance compared to industry competitors and more. SizeUp Dallas, which is intended to help businesses make smarter business decisions as they recover from the impact of COVID-19, is free to use.
• The Arts Community Alliance, best known as TACA, has a new, broader grant-making initiative to help Dallas arts groups during the COVID-19 pandemic. The TACA Resiliency Initiative, launched in July, will allow TACA to make more grants and also loosen restrictions for applicants. It was designed as a longer-term solution following TACA’s Emergency Arts Relief Fund earlier this year and features two new programs, resiliency and pop-up grants that disburse funds over the next year. 
• The National Association for the Self-Employed offers a Growth Grant. The awards of up to $4,000 are designed to address specific business needs. Each quarter, NASE awards three growth grants to active members. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis throughout 2020. 
• Dallas-based Vista Bank wants businesses to know there’s an alternative to the PPP: Main Street Lending Program loans range from $250,000 to $300 million and are meant to help businesses that were profitable pre-COVID survive. John Steinmetz, CEO of the Dallas-based community bank, explains the lending program that’s essentially meant to be “a bridge to get us to post-COVID.”

• Kroger is hiring cashiers and stockers throughout the Dallas Region… explore jobs.
• Children’s Health is hiring positions in administrative and clerical support, nursing, patient care support, professional and management, and facilities and operations… explore jobs.
• Walmart is looking for area managers, freight loaders, and maintenance technicians for Dallas Region warehouse distribution centers… explore jobs. 
• Alkami, one of the fastest-growing software companies in Texas, is hiring for multiple positions… explore jobs.

JULY 24

• Major League Baseball and the Major League Baseball Players Association have launched a Healthy Relationships Community Grants initiative. Together, they’ll award $3 million in funding through 2021 to U.S.-based nonprofits and global non-governmental organizations. MLB and MLBPA say the focus is on supporting programs around mental health resiliency in vulnerable populations, improving relationship skills in the next generation, and critical services to survivors of domestic violence. Deadline for Q3 applications is Sept. 1.
• Find out how $6.2 billion in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans were split among Dallas-area businesses in a searchable guide from The Dallas Morning News. 
• The SoGal Foundation is awarding $10K and $5K grants to Black women and Black non-binary entrepreneurs on a rolling basis.
• Red Bull’s new microgrant initiative offers two $1,000 grants a month to artists in Dallas and 19 other cities, per Art and Seek.
• Need web or mobile app design? Dallas-based digital product agency CrateBind is offering free services to three startups impacted by the pandemic. The deadline to apply is Aug. 3. 
• The Town of Addison has a $500,000 fund through the CARES Act to provide grant assistance to Addison-based small businesses that have been adversely impacted by COVID-19. According to a post, each grant award is valued at 75 percent of a business’ gross lease or mortgage for two months for a maximum grant award of up to $10,000 per company. The application deadline is Friday, July 31. For more information on eligibility and the application, go here.

• At the request of Mayor Eric Johnson, the Dallas Economic Recovery Task Force in June announced a new initiative to advance short-term COVID-19 economic recovery and drive long-term inclusive growth in Dallas.  The program, called Dallas Forward, mainly focuses on assisting Dallas’ small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) through an online portal to provide SMBs with resources for relief. In addition, there’s a task force intended to immediately focus on supporting SMBs.

TALENT POOL

Explore Dallas-Fort Worth jobs in the “Say Yes to Dallas'” back-to-work hub. The online portal, kicked off by entrepreneur/football star Emmitt Smith earlier this year, is hosted by the Dallas Regional Chamber to help locals find available jobs. This week, you’ll find job listings from:

• Tom Thumb and Albertsons (merchandising, food service and bakery, pharmacy, stocking, transportation)
• BGSF (marketing specialists and development managers)
• Ulta’s distribution center (material handlers, maintenance mechanic, and sales and operations managers), Baylor Scott & White Health (medical specialists, registered nurses and medical assistants, billing specialists, researchers, supply chain, professional services), and more. 
• The DRC itself has open positions, including SVP for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and a Leadership Programs Director. 

JULY 17

• The LiftFund Women’s Business Center DFW has launched a new Business Resiliency Program to help local businesses—mainly those that are minority- and woman-owned—survive the COVID-19 pandemic. The center offers free business assessments and recommendations, emotional wellness coaching, and industry-specific trainings.
• Comerica and The DEC at Redbird Partner have teamed up on a virtual series for small businesses. The Business $ense Bootcamps will offer technical assistance and free financial workshops for entrepreneurs and small businesses. The series is part of Comerica and its foundation’s COVID-19 relief efforts, which total $8 million.
• The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is rolling out an emergency economic relief microgrant program. The chamber will award microgrants for $1,000 to $2,500 to local minority-owned businesses in need of emergency economic assistance. The application period runs through July 24. 

JUNE 26

• More than two dozen funding options are available for small businesses in Dallas-Fort Worth. But key deadlines are approaching.
• A grant program collaboration between Frisco, Allen, and McKinney is intended to support small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funding for the Tri-City Collin County Small Business Grant Program is provided by Collin County as part of the CARES Act, and McKinney’s $5 million grant program opened this week, according to Community Impact. 
• Allen also launched its $3 million small business grant program on Monday, per the DMN.
• $30M in coronavirus relief funds have been made available to Tarrant County small businesses, per MSN Money.
• The Dallas Economic Recovery Task Force this week announced a new initiative to advance short-term COVID-19 economic recovery and drive long-term inclusive growth in Dallas. A new online portal hosts resources on supplies, funds, reopening, and more, including what was donated by some of Dallas’ leading companies.
• PPP loans now only require 60 percent of funds to be used for payroll, reports CFO Dive, along with more changes to the program earlier this month. (June 30 is the last day to get the loan approval.)

JUNE 19

• A $5M small business assistance program has opened in Dallas County. You can submit a pre-application until June 28 for the emergency program, per CBS DFW.
• Cedar Hill has approved a $500,000 fund for small businesses struggling during the pandemic in Cedar Hill. Minority and women-owned businesses will be given top priority, the station also reports.
• It’s last call, small business, for PPP loans, the DMN says. June 30 is the last day to get a loan approval.
• The Federal Reserve has launched a corporate bond-buying program to ensure companies can borrow through the bond market during the COVID-19 crisis, according to AP.

JUNE 12

• SoftBank Group announced a new $100 million venture fund “for outstanding Black, Latinx, and Native American founders” last week. Work is still underway, and the group says it’s seeing “significant interest.” To learn more about the Opportunity Fund, go here.
• PayPal, Apple, and YouTube have pledged millions to racial justice programs, per Silicon Angle. Collectively, that’s a pledge of $730 million, according to the Silicon Valley Business Journal.
• It’s last call, small business, for PPP loans, the DMN says. The loans “are better now and plenty of cash remains,” reports Mitchell Schnurman. It’s also “easier to get loan forgiveness and reach a lender.” But take note: June 30 is the last day to get a loan approval. More than $100 billion is still available, per CBS DFW.
• Confused by the (11-page) Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness application? It’s about to get easier, writes Patty Tascarella on bizjournals.com. A new form is on the way, thanks to the passage of the PPP Flexibility Act of 2020 last week.
• The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce wants to help businesses with a counseling program called B3. The “Business Bounce Back” program will help provide consultation, resources, and a “built in support network to rally behind the business’ success.”
• McKinney announced the second round of grants to small and home-based businesses in the city. The Strong Grant program, backed by up to $1 million in funds, will accept applications through June 18.

JUNE 5

• The Revive Dallas Small Business Relief Fund opens applications on June 7 and will accept applications through June 19 (extended today). To read more about the fund go here.
• How prepared are you to apply for a loan? To find out, you can take the LiftFund Quiz.
• Downtown Dallas Inc. announced its Storefront Restoration Program to help street-level downtown businesses impacted by damage during the demonstrations with losses not covered by insurance or other means. Grants will be capped at $5,000, it said.
• DCCCD Foundation’s Emergency Aid Fund reopened on June 4. It’s partnered with Edquity, an educational tech company, to review applications. All enrolled DCCCD students are eligible to apply. 
• A new Texas COVID-19 tracker offers a ton of useful information, says Texas Monthly. The Texas 2036 project gives “a clear picture of the state of the pandemic in Texas,” using information from the state, the media, and Google.

May 29

• The Preserve the Fort initiative offers $10 million in grants to Fort Worth small businesses. $2.5 million will be dedicated to supporting minority-owned businesses, with another $2.5 million is reserved for businesses located in the city’s Neighborhood Empowerment Zones and Designated Investment Zones. Deadline is June 8.
• The Revive Dallas Small Business Relief Fund will provide $5 million for entrepreneurs, with loans to more than 250 applicants who can receive up to $25,000. 
• The Small Business Administration (SBA) has released a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan forgiveness application.

May 15

• BCBS has a special health insurance enrollment period for those affected by the pandemic. The newly unemployed and workers with reduced hours may be eligible to sign up for health insurance during a special enrollment period, per CBS Austin.
• The Texas Tribune is tracking how many people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Texas each day using data from local health officials.
• Nonprofit Texas 2036, founded by Tom Luce, has a new COVID-19 dashboard to show Texans how the pandemic is affecting us each day with updated data. The tool comes with a “reopening analysis.” 
• Say Yes to Dallas and the Dallas Regional Chamber are connecting workers displaced by the COVID-19 outbreak with jobs.

May 8

• Dallas County will launch housing and business assistance with $10M in federal money, reports the DMN.

• Mayor Betsy Price and city leaders launch ‘Fort Worth Now’ economic recovery task force, per CBS DFW.

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