The well-being of the county’s businesses and citizens is a priority for us at Rockingham County Economic Development.  We have been closely monitoring the numerous updates and gathering resources as they become available in an effort to help manage and reduce any hardships Rockingham County’s workforce may feel as an impact of this epidemic.

Below is an evolving list of resource pertaining to state and federal COVIC-19 announcements, programs, and information to help navigate through this challenging time. If you are aware of anything that needs to be added to the list, please email tmartin@co.rockingham.nc.us.

Direct Contact Information

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Hotline-1866-432-3821

Stay-At-Home Order

On October 2nd, 2020 at 5:00 pm, Governor Roy Cooper declared North Carolina to be in “Phase 3” as outlined in Executive Order 169. The new order outlines the easement of restrictions including the following:
  • Large outdoor venues with seating greater than 10,000 may operate with 7% occupancy for spectators.
  • Smaller outdoor entertainment venues, such as arenas or amphitheaters, may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity – or 100 guests, whichever is less.
  • Movie theaters and conference centers may open indoor spaces to 30% of capacity – or 100 guests, whichever is less.
  • Bars may operate outdoors at 30% of outdoor capacity – or 100 guests, whichever is less.
  • Amusement parks may open at 30% occupancy, outdoor attractions only.
  • The limits on mass gatherings will remain at 25 people indoors and 50 people outdoors.
  • The 11 p.m. curfew on alcohol sales for in-person consumption in locations such as restaurants and outdoor bars will be extended to Oct. 23.
Click here for the complete order and for all guidelines and restrictions.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions provided by the State.

Information for Employers

US Small Business Assistance

  • US Small Business Administration: Guidance for Small Businesses
  • US Small Business Administration: COVID-19 Small Business Loans and Information
  • US Small Business Administration: Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program  (*round three of funding was opened 6/12/20)
    The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened up a third round of funding for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Relief. Those businesses with less than 500 employees may be eligible for an advance of $1,000 per employee, up to a $10,000 maximum. This advance does not have be paid back. Additionally, there are Economic Injury Disaster Relief loans available, but a completed loan application is not a requirement to receive grant funding.
  • Revised Paycheck Protection Program Guidelines: On Friday, June 12, The U.S. Small Business Administration along with the U.S. Department of Treasury issued new and revised guidelines for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The new law, which was signed June 5th, 2020 by President Trump, expands eligibility for business owners who have past felony convictions.

Local Assistance

Payroll Protection Program

  • Payroll Protection Program Borrower Application Form
  • Find eligible lenders here

General Business and Small Business Resources

Business Operations Information

Food Services Industry Information

Shelter in Place Information

Information for Employees/Self Employed

COVID-19 Unemployment Insurance Claims

Under Executive Order #118, individuals who, as a direct result of COVID-19, are separated from employment, have had their hours of employment reduced, or are prevented from working due to a medical condition caused by COVID-19 or due to communicable disease control measures may apply for unemployment assistance immediately.

  1. Order removes the one-week waiting period for individuals to apply for benefits
  2. Order removes the requirement that a person must look for another job during this time
  3. Order also allows employees, who lost their jobs or who have had their hours reduced due to COVID-19 issues, to apply for unemployment benefits
  4. Order instructs the Employment Security office to not allocate charges to employers’ accounts for individuals who are paid benefits for reasons related to COVID-19

Relief Funding for Employees/Self Employed

Information Pertaining to Agricultural Work

Information For Re-opening Your Business

As the State of North Carolina prepares to ease restrictions surrounding sheltering in place, including non-essential business practices, there is a lot of uncertainty and concern for safety as well as compliance. Below is information to help you navigate opening your doors as well as keeping yourself and your employees safe. For more information on the COVID-19 Executive Order, please visit here.