Businesses, Restaurants, & Community Organizations

Assistance for small businesses is available from the local, state, and federal government.

• The City of Bellingham is offering economic relief measures for businesses, utility customers, and city tenants impacted by COVID-19.
• The Port of Bellingham has compiled economic impact resources for businesses on their Economic Impact and Resources webpage.
• Technology Alliance Group for Northwest Washington (TAG NW) offers technology consulting on topics that include network and server infrastructure, digital marketing, website design, and more. This service is free for non-profits and by donation for businesses.
• The Western Washington University Small Business Development Center has resources and guidance to help local small businesses. This includes how local businesses can navigate through the process to access state and federal programs.
• Washington State provides information on resources to support businesses and workers affected by COVID-19 on coronavirus.wa.gov.
• The Washington State Department of Commerce has programs that support both businesses and workers at the state and federal level.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration provides information on COVID-19 related guidance, relief options, and loans.  The Seattle District Office is the regional office for Whatcom County.

• The Washington Governor’s proclamations page will be updated as new or extended proclamations are put out.

• The Whatcom County Public Health Advisory Board’s COVID Employer Support Task force provides a list of safe start resources and best practices.
• Washington State’s coronavirus.wa.gov website offers information on the Safe Start plan with details on phases, plans, and guidance for reopening business.
• The Washington Governor’s website offers COVID-19 reopening guidance for businesses and workers for different business types. This page will updated as new guidance is published

• Safety complaints or non-compliance with Coronavirus prevention requirements can be made to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I).  Information on how to file a complaint can be found on their website.  Complaints can also be submitted to the L&I DOSH Bilingual Reporting line 800-423-7233 or via e-mail.

• Visit our Travel Information page for links to local, regional, and international travel websites.

• The Whatcom County Health Department maintains a comprehensive Safe Start Resources for Businesses and Community Organizations webpage.