Skip to content
Back to Business Program
Let's Get You Back to Business

The COVID-19 global pandemic has resulted in unprecedented challenges in the United States, and small businesses are being hit particularly hard. Back to Business, a new community business program from Thrive Economic Development (ThriveED) and the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Whitewater assists small businesses in Jefferson and Dodge counties as they look for ways to stay afloat during these turbulent times.

Learn more about the Back to Business program by reading the Frequently Asked Questions below.

What will Back to Business do for me?

Back to Business was launched to provide immediate support to small businesses in Jefferson and Dodge Counties affected by COVID-19. The program is intended to connect businesses with customized assistance to understand their specific needs and ensure that they are connected to resources to help them survive, recover and be ready to grow post-pandemic. 

Back to Business takes a two-pronged approach: 

  • Helping businesses access newly available government crisis response resources 
  • Supporting business owners in making necessary strategic adjustments to weather their immediate need for capital, while planning for recovery and eventual business growth 

As of April 1, 2020, three federal legislative packages have been enacted. Existing programs include: 

  • Economic Injury Disaster Loan 
  • Paycheck Protection Program 
  • Small Business Debt Relief Program 
  • Emergency Economic Injury Grant 

Confused? That’s where Back to Business can help. We will help you navigate these programs and resources.    

Who is eligible for assistance?

Any business or nonprofit organization with a presence in the Jefferson and Dodge County region that employs 500 or fewer employees. 

Is there a cost for services?

No! Services are providing virtually and are made available to businesses free of charge. 

What services are available? (Updated July 22, 2020)

Crisis Business Assistance 

  • 1:1 (provided virtually until restrictions are lifted) assistance from SBDC-qualified consultants to understand your businesses needs today and help prepare you for the future.   

Loan/Grant Assistance 

  • Helping you determine which loan or grant programs you may qualify for  
  • Assistance with applying for existing loan or grant programs 

There’s never been a better time to invest in your business

If you’re thinking of adding space, machinery or equipment for your business – now is an ideal time. You may qualify for six-months of interest and principal free loans offered by the SBA! If you’re considering financing options now, the CARES Act allows for the SBA to cover the principal, interest and any associated fees for 7(a) and 504 loans, for a six-month period. These are full payments intended to provide relief to borrowers during challenging times. This benefit is for existing loans and new loans made and fully disbursed between March 27 and Sept. 27, 2020. Read more here.

How do I sign up for the Back to Business assistance?

Getting started is easy. Complete our simple intake form, linked here or by clicking the green button below, and we’ll reach out to start the conversation.  

Back To Top