As your local AIGA chapter, we are committed to providing high quality events, workshops and programs to our members and the creative community. Due to current Coronavirus/COVID-19 health and safety concerns, all of our upcoming gatherings and in-person events have been paused. We are following public health measures outlined by CDC and local authorities to limit the spread of the virus by adapting to digital content.

Our AIGA board is working on virtual programming and engagement for the upcoming months – we’d love to hear from you for suggestions. To participate in the conversation, AIGA members can join our community Slack workspace or email us. 

Creative Businesses Resources
If you have been connected to BUILD Institute, they have a webpage that is updated daily with new resources to help you through this challenging time. This page includes funding, operations, and regional resources. It also includes specific support for food businesses and artists.Here is a snapshot of current funding opportunities that are currently open for applications.

• Kiva– Because of the #COVID19 outbreak, the Kiva U.S. program has expanded to include zero fees, a $15,000 loan maximum and a 6-month grace period.

• Honeycomb Credit – To help deliver the working capital that businesses need, up to $50,000, Honeycomb is offering 45-day payment free periods, 6-month interest-only periods and reducing our posting, success, and investor fees.

• DETROIT/WAYNE COUNTY COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS RELIEF FUND – A total funding pool to $4.7 million, which Detroit and Wayne County will administer through a single unified team. Applications will be accepted and awards will be made on a rolling basis subject to availability of funds. First payments are expected to be processed by April 10, 2020

• TCF Wayne County Relief Fund – TCF Bank and Wayne County are working together to provide fast relief through microloans, to help small businesses with the effects of COVID-19.

• Verizon Small Business Recovery Fund – Thanks to a $2.5 million investment from Verizon, LISC is offering grants to help small businesses fill urgent financial gaps until they can resume normal operations or until other more permanent financing becomes available. First round applications due April 4.

For more information, please check out our Slack workspace for the latest postings and links related to creative resources during this time.