<strong>From staff reports</strong>

MBDA COVID-19 Project recently launched its comprehensive website to give minority-owned businesses information and resources to navigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The website — mbdacovid19project.com — also contains a chatbox that provides more immediate response to questions and concerns.

“All businesses have been suffering due to the impact of the COVID-19,” MBDA COVID-19 Project program director Sandra Bell said. “Minority-owned businesses in particular can fall prey to the challenges of the pandemic because they historically have faced inequity that makes it more difficult to flourish. While there are many organizations focusing on helping businesses survive, we are laser focused on minority-owned businesses. Our website is the gateway to getting the information, resources, and one-on-one help owners need to come out of the pandemic with their head above water.”

Mbdacovid19project.com has information on how to acquire capital, obtain training, and get information on how to safely return to work and cope with the effects of the virus. The site is geared to all minority-owned businesses, including churches, nonprofit organizations, farmers, and gig workers.

The website also contains a chatbox that is manned from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The chatbox can be used to get fast, reliable information and advice.

“When businesses are in distress, they want assistance right away. The chatbox is one way we can be more responsive to owners.” Bell said.

MBDA COVID-19 Project is funded by Minority Business Development Agency, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce. It is a part of the CARES ACT dedicated to helping minority-owned businesses navigate the challenges of COVID-19.