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COVID-19 Business & Workforce Resources
The Surprise Economic Development department continues to monitor and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our local businesses and local workforce.
Whether you’re a local business, seeking employment opportunities, or simply looking for ways to support your local Surprise businesses, the Economic Development department is committed to helping you.
Economic Development will provide up-to-date information from reliable sources to ensure that small businesses, residents and our local workforce have the resources they need during these uncertain times. As new information becomes available, we will share it on this page.
Please subscribe to the Economic Development Updates “Notify Me” emails to receive department updates.
Have questions? Email econdev@surpriseaz.gov.
Interested in Supporting Local Businesses? We’ve Got You Covered!
Here are some tips and resources to help support our local businesses!
Order Delivery / Takeout
Order delivery or takeout from almost any Surprise restaurant. Call ahead and pick up your order when it’s ready– many restaurants will even deliver your order to your car!
A number of restaurants are also offering curbside delivery.
View LIST OF OPEN RESTAURANTS (TAKEOUT / DELIVERY)
In order to serve you best, we will continue to update this list of local establishments ready to serve you!
Delivery services such as DoorDash, GrubHub or UberEats servicing Surprise restaurants are also great options.
Note: these service providers charge local business owners an average of 30% of the total sale.
Retail Stores Open in Surprise
LIST OF RETAIL STORES OPEN IN SURPRISE
Buy Gift Cards
Purchase gift cards from your favorite local shops and restaurants; this puts money in the pocket of your favorite store owner today to help them cover operating expenses.
Shop Online
Many Surprise retailers have online shops. Several businesses are offering discounts and/or free shipping for those that show support for locals during this time.
Reminder: Not all businesses offer online shopping. Shops that do not provide online shops may be able to take your order over the phone and schedule deliveries - don’t hesistate to call and ask!
Tip a Little Extra
Have a steady paycheck? Leave a little extra cash for service workers! If you are able, consider leaving a dine-in tip on takeout orders, and leaving a little extra for the kitchen staff too.
Social Currency
Spending more time online? Engage with your favorite Surprise businesses and leave a positive Google, Yelp, or Facebook review.
Like, follow, comment and engage with them on social media. It’s free to you and helps remind businesses that they aren’t forgotten. This kind of social currency pays dividends of a different kind.
Special Shopping Hours for Seniors
See a list of local grocery stores that are offering special shopping hours for seniors.
Special Shopping Hours for Seniors
The Surprise Economic Development Department is committed to providing relevant and reliable information on a variety of resources and programming to all COVID-19 impacted businesses in our community. Information on this business resource page has been organized by a number of important topics and is subject to changes because of regularly posted updates.
Financial Assistance | Free Assistance | Executive Orders | Business FAQ | Additional Recovery Resources | 100-Day Recovery Plan
Financial Assistance Available
SBA Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus
The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering designated states and territories low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon a request received from a state’s or territory’s Governor, SBA will issue under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration. https://www.sba.gov/disaster-assistance/coronavirus-covid-19. View the CARES Act SBA Summary.
Download the CARES Act Webinar presentation hosted by Arizona Commerce Authority:
Arizona Commerce Authority COVID-19 Business Series – Ensuring Business Continuity 040120
The CARES Act assists small businesses in the following ways:
Paycheck Protection Program: $350 billion in zero-fee, low-interest small business loans up to $10 million. Small businesses, nonprofits, franchises, veteran’s organizations, and tribal businesses up to 500 employees are eligible, as long as they conform with SBA definitions. View Program Information...
This Program is available through current SBA approved lenders and may also be facilitated by other lends are they are certified to lend against SBA programs. View the current Arizona SBA Lenders List. If you do not see your lender included on this list, follow up with your lender directly to see if they are planning to offer this program.
Up to 8 weeks of average payroll and other costs will be forgiven if the business retains its employees and their salary levels. Principal and interest is deferred for up to a year and all borrower fees are waived. This temporary emergency assistance through the SBA and the Department of Treasury can be used in coordination with other COVID-financing assistance established in the bill or any other existing SBA loan program.
Paycheck Protection Program Application
Paycheck Protection Program Info Sheet
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL): EIDLs are loans of up to $2 million that carry interest rates up to 3.75 percent for companies and up to 2.75 percent for nonprofits, as well as principal and interest deferment for up to 4 years. The loans may be used to pay for expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred, including payroll and other operating expenses. With the Governor’s emergency declaration, every county in our state is eligible to receive relief through EIDL grants. Visit the SBA Guidance and Loan Resources page for more information and to apply.
SBA Emergency Economic Injury Grant: $10 billion in funding to provide an advance of $10,000 to small businesses and nonprofits that apply for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) within three days of applying for the loan.
The grant does not need to be repaid, even if the EIDL request is denied. EIDL can be used to provide paid sick leave, maintain payroll, meet increased production costs, or pay business obligations like rent or a mortgage.
Visit the SBA Guidance and Loan Resources page for for more information and to apply.
SBA Debt Relief: The SBA Debt Relief program will provide a reprieve to small businesses as they overcome the challenges created by this health crisis. Under this program:
The SBA will also pay the principal and interest of new 7(a) loans issued prior to September 27, 2020.
The SBA will pay the principal and interest of current 7(a) loans for a period of six months.
Visit the SBA Guidance and Loan Resources page for more information and to apply.
For program questions or assistance in completing the SBA application online, businesses may contact the following:
SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955.
SCORE (Service Corps Of Retired Executives) www.score.org
Arizona’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) https://www.azsbdc.net/where-we-are/locations/
Local First Arizona Small Business Relief Fund: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Local First Arizona and its community partners are launching a fund to provide mini-grants to Arizona’s smallest, locally owned, independent enterprises. These micro-entrepreneurs — businesses with 0-3 employees and less than $250,000 in annual revenue (approximately $35k-$45k in net profits) — need immediate assistance to sustain the impact from decreased business and cash flow caused by the shut down of our economy. Learn more…
Free Assistance Available
See Red, Get Fed Free Banner Program
To help restaurants promote their services and more easily identify types of services available, Surprise Economic Development is providing a FREE 4’ X 4’ banner for any restaurant that would like to participate in the city’s banner program. Restaurateurs – Learn how you can get your free banner: https://bit.ly/39e4WZX
FREE “Open Shop Surprise” Retail Banner Available
The City of Surprise Economic Development Department is reaching out to each local Surprise conventional store to offer a FREE promotional banner highlighting that retail businesses are OPEN during this time. Please email Kris.Cassens@SurpriseAZ.Gov or call 623.222.3329 to request delivery of a banner for your establishment. Disclaimer: The open business list is a self-registry and any errors or omissions are not the responsibility of the city; and the list is not an endorsement by city for any product or service.
To participate, fill out the form.
A-frame sign policy temporarily amended
Beginning, Monday, March 30, 2020, businesses in the city of Surprise will be allowed to display an A-frame sign along the adjacent roadway or roadway closest to their business subject to certain requirements. This is a temporary action due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the requirements…
Startup Space App
Startup Space, the online platform for startups and small businesses offered by city of Surprise through AZ TechCelerator, is offering national support for its users including a list of resources and organizations that are offering various types of support for entrepreneurs and small business owners during the coronavirus outbreak and will be updated as information becomes available. View the full list of resources...
Arizona’s Governor’s Office Executive Orders related to COVID-19
Governor’s Additional Guidance On Essential Services
The Governor’s Office today, April 3, 2020, released additional guidance on essential services and recreational activities. If not already closed, the following services shall cease operations no later than 5 p.m. on April 4, 2020, as these services cannot comply with the guidelines required in paragraph 11 of Executive Order 2020-18, directing Arizonans to Stay Home, Stay Healthy, and Stay Connected.
- Barbers
- Cosmetology, Hairstyling, Nail Salons and Aesthetic Salons
- Tanning salons
- Tattoo parlors
- Spas
- Massage parlors
- Amenities at public parks that do not allow for recommended physical distancing
- Communal pools such as those at hotels, condominiums, apartment complexes and parks
- Swap meets
The Governor’s Office also provided guidance related to the following services, which are considered essential and may continue operations:
- Personal hygiene services including in-home services such as assistance with bathing and cleaning for vulnerable adults and those who are disabled.
- Daycare centers providing care for individuals with children serving in any essential services category.
- Hotels and motels, to the extent used for lodging, including RV Parks, and hotel and motel restaurants providing delivery or carryout food services.
- Respite and palliative care.
Governor’s Executive Order “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected”
The latest Executive Order issued today by Governor Doug Ducey follows new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and comes at the recommendation of public health officials who are tracking data specific to Arizona. The Governor’s order promotes increased physical distancing, while encouraging social connectedness among citizens. It takes place at 5:00 p.m. tomorrow, March 31, 2020. Learn more…
Download the Executive Order 2020-18
Governor’s Executive Order Prohibiting Closure of Essential Services
On March 23, 2020 Governor Doug Ducey issued an executive order clarifying businesses and operations deemed “essential” by the state and providing certainty to business owners, employees and families. The order is a proactive and administrative measure to ensure consistent guidance across the state. Learn more...
Download the Executive Order 2020-12
Governor’s Executive Order for Restaurants, Bars and Other Businesses
Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order 2020-09 effective close of business Friday, March 20, 2020 that requires restaurants in Arizona counties with confirmed COVID-19 cases (which includes Maricopa County) to provide dine-out options only, and that all bars in those counties close. This also applies to movie theaters and gyms.
To assist in mitigating the financial consequences of restaurant closures, the Executive Order also allows restaurants to deliver alcoholic beverages with the purchase of food.
Additionally, the Governor’s directive allows manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers to buy back unopened products from restaurants, bars and clubs. Learn more…
Download the Executive Order 2020-09
Business FAQ’s
- Q: What does the Stay-At-Home Order issued by Governor Ducey on March 30th mean for my business?
A: All businesses classified as Essential Services may remain open and maintain operations but should establish and implement social distancing and sanitation measures established by the US Department of Labor or the Arizona Department of Health Services. Non-essential businesses may be able to continue to operate without in-person or onsite transactions.
The order provided on March 23rd outlines an expansive list of Essential Services and Businesses that cities and counties are prohibited from shutting. This includes:
- Healthcare and public health operations, including hospitals, public health entities, distributors of personal protective equipment and biotechnology companies.
- Human services operations, including those that provide services for the elderly, those with developmental disabilities, foster and adoptive children and the homeless.
- Infrastructure operations, including food production, utility operators, construction and internet providers.
- Government functions, including first responders, emergency management personnel, 911 operators, child protection staff, welfare providers and more.
- Business operations, including grocery and medicine providers.
- Organizations that provide charitable and social services, including religious and secular non-profit organizations and food banks.
- Media organizations, including newspaper, television, radio and other media services.
- Gas stations and other transportation-related businesses.
- Financial institutions, including banks and credit unions.
- Hardware and supply stores.
- Critical trades, including plumbers, electricians, cleaning, sanitation, HVAC and security staff.
- Mail, post, shipping and logistics.
- Education institutions, including public and private K-12 schools, universities and research entities.
- Laundry and dry cleaning services.
- Restaurants for consumption off-premises.
- Supplies distributors that enable telework and work from home and those that supply essential businesses.
- Transportation, including airlines, taxis and ride-sharing.
- Home-based and care services, including for seniors and those with developmental disabilities.
- Residential facilities and shelters, including those for children, seniors or at-risk populations.
- Professional services, including legal, real estate and accounting services.
- Day care centers for employees exempted through the order.
- Manufacturers, distribution and producers of supply-chain critical products.
- Hotels and motels.
- Funeral services.
- Q: The recent Executive Orders require “additional sanitization precautions” for my business to stay open. What does that mean?
A: Arizona Department of Health Services has published guidance for business to prepare for COVID-19. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published a COVID-19 planning guidance based on traditional infection prevention and industrial hygiene practices, among other resources on their COVID-19 page. - Q: I’m a restaurant looking to promote my curbside sales. What are my options?
A: There are a variety of new and popular digital options available that you may have already heard of, some you may not have: - Q. Can I just keep my business patio open for dining or gathering?
A. No, unfortunately take-out, drive-thru and delivery options are the ONLY allowable business practices temporarily throughout the State of Arizona. Read the March 19, 2020 announcement from Arizona Governor Doug Ducey here: https://azgovernor.gov/governor/news/2020/03/governor-ducey-announces-latest-covid-19-actions - Q. Can I continue to receive walk-in clients at my personal care establishment?
A. In order to comply with the CDC guidelines regarding social distancing, businesses that offer walk-in, personal care services (beauty salons, barber shops, nail salons, spas, etc.) are highly encouraged to have appointment only hours. - Q. I am a business who can help manufacture essential products. Who should I contact?
A. Email the Arizona Department of Health Services at HEOC@azdhs.gov with a description of your capabilities and how your company can help. - Q. I am a business who wants to wants to provide free or reduced cost services to the community. Who can I contact?
A. If your scope of free or reduced cost service consideration is to the local or most vulnerable populations within our community, please contact Seth Dyson with the City of Surprise Human Services and Community Vitality Department at seth.dyson@surpriseaz.gov.
If your scope or free or reduced cost service consideration is regional or statewide, email the Arizona Department of Health Services at HEOC@azdhs.gov with a description of your capabilities and how your company can help. - Q: If my business is deemed “essential” and not required to close, am I still eligible for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program
A: Yes, all small business under 500 employees are eligible. - Q: Can I use the SBA Paycheck Protection Program to rehire staff I’ve already let go?
A: Yes. PPP funds may be used to hire staff let go on or after February 15, 2020 a result of COVID 19 restrictions. - Q: Are funds through SBA PPP available on a first come, first served basis?
A: No, funds will be made available to all eligible businesses who apply. - Q: The CARES Act legislation is due to expire on June 30, 2020. What if the impacts last longer?
A: The SBA PPP will be extended as needed. - Q: I’m a tenant in my building and I need help understanding my options through this challenging time. What resources can you provide me?
A: While we recommend you consult your commercial leasing agent for your specific needs, tenant representation subject matter experts at Keyer have compiled the Top 10 Answers Every Tenant Needs to Know About COVID-19. - Q: I’m a landlord of a multitenant building and I need help understanding my options through this challenging time. What resources can you provide me?
A: While we recommend you consult your legal advisor and lender to help understand the entirety of your options, here are some key points of recommendation:- Work with your tenants to minimize damage and preserve your assets.
- Be open to negotiating with your tenant, if possible. This doesn’t mean waiving your right to get paid, just understanding that it could be costlier to lose a tenant than keep the one you have.
- Have effective communication in writing – always.
- Have incident reporting procedures established.
- Be familiar with your lease terms.
- Be familiar with your lender requirements especially with regard to material changes to leasing agreements
- Be familiar with your insurance coverages including impossibility of performance and force majeure.
Additional Recovery Resources
- Arizona Commerce Authority Business Financial Support
- Arizona Commerce Authority – COVID-19 Arizona Business Resources
- Do you own a Business Owner’s Insurance Policy? If so, Business Interruption may be part of your policy.
- Arizona Department of Economic Security – COVID-19 Information – move to Job Seekers info
- Maricopa County Public Health – Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)
The Surprise Economic Development Department Has A Recovery Plan!
The Economic Development Department mission is focused on activities that attract new jobs to Surprise, increase retail sales within the community and enhance our quality of life – and this has not changed. Given the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the Surprise Economic Development Department is focused more than ever on activities that will help businesses and our local workforce make a successful recovery while helping to keep our community updated with respect to important services. Our newly launched 100-Day Business and Workforce Recovery Plan is driving our priorities toward a successful economic recovery.
View 100-Day Business and Workforce Recovery Plan
We appreciate and value any and all feedback, recommendations and communication received and genuinely appreciate the opportunity to provide business and workforce assistance services.
Have questions or recommendations? Please email us at econdev@surpriseaz.gov. Thank you!
Need a Job? Let’s Get Started!
Surprise is committed to helping our workforce identify opportunities for employment.
- City of Surprise Community Jobs Board
- Surprise Resource Center
- Arizona@Work
- Arizona Department of Economic Security Services Related to COVID-19
- Pipeline AZ
- Social Security and the CARES Act
- Provisions Related to Unemployment Compensation in the CARES Act
- 2020 Rebates: FAQs
- Arizona Commerce Authority
Please check back regularly on this page for updates, as there are daily changes, announcements and updates expected.
Interested in Upskilling?
Here’s a No Cost Virtual Certification Opportunity for Parents of Children Under 13
Maricopa Community Colleges/Corporate College in collaboration with Arizona@Work is providing a FREE virtual training and certification with guaranteed job interviews for parents of children 13 and under seeking to upskill in careers in IT/Cyber. (Comp Tia ++ certification). Classes are filling up quickly will begin the week of April 13th; more classes may be added based on the interest level.