Small businesses are in desperate need of renewed funding

This letter is in response to Congress and the White House stalling on additional relief for small businesses.

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) saved my business, but six months later, funds are running out, fears of loan forgiveness loom, and I’m disappointed that the White House and congressional leaders have been unable to reach an agreement while small businesses across America struggle to stay afloat.

As a new business owner, I was particularly vulnerable when COVID-19 hit and stay at home orders were put in place. Like everyone else, I was forced to shut down my business and lay off employees. Even though efforts to support Main Street America have come to a standstill on Capitol Hill, the pandemic has not and neither has its effect on small businesses.

Small businesses need access to more funds and we need access to them now. I hope my elected officials find renewed interest in small businesses soon and make second-round PPP loans available, or else, I fear we may see more and more businesses closing without plans of reopening.

-Jim Holifield, former owner, Edge Forward LLC, Sacramento, CA