East Valley Chambers of Commerce Release COVID-19 Business Impact Report

The East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance (EVCCA) released today the findings from a survey conducted of its more than 5,000 members to determine the immediate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their revenue, operations, and supply chains.

The report includes responses from nineteen industry sectors and nearly 70 percent of respondents represent businesses with less than 20 employees. Based on the data and feedback received, the following commonalities were identified:

• An immediate need for access to cash to keep their businesses afloat and to cover payroll expenses.  As such, the need to streamline the SBA loan application and to limit restrictions was identified as a priority.  Access to loans, lines of credit, and other funding options from local banks is essential as well.
• Employers are concerned with the welfare of their employees and seek clarity on how to accommodate new Sick Leave, FMLA, and payroll tax credits. However, if businesses do not have access to cash, tax credits are not relevant as employees cannot be paid. Businesses are trying to reassign or identify new duties to keep current employees on the job, including delivery, maintenance, and remote work assignments.
• Access to medical and sanitizing supplies is critical, especially for our hospitals.  Many businesses require access to these supplies in order to operate, including meal prep, delivery, and carry-out services.
• Businesses are asking for accurate and consistent information about COVID-19 and clarity to be provided for businesses and essential service protocols to keep employees and customers safe.

The EVCCA will use this data, along with information received from upcoming surveys, to advocate for the immediate and long-term needs of the businesses for which they present.

To view the published report, visit https://gilbertaz.com/uploads/ImpactReport323.pdf. Additional business resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found on the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce’s resource page at www.gilbertaz.com/covid-19.

The East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance represented more than 5,000 businesses through individual memberships held with the Apache Junction, Carefree Cave Creek, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Scottsdale and Tempe Chambers of Commerce.