Coalition launches website to help West Michigan businesses through COVID-19 crisis

A new private-public coalition has launched a website where West Michigan businesses and their employees can get accurate, timely and relevant information and connect to vital resources to help them weather the COVID-19 crisis. The website – COVIDWM.org – offers information on state and federal legislation, business continuity, employee resources and best practices, as well as health updates and links to organizations that can help.

The West Michigan COVID-19 Business Coalition, a new partnership comprised of business, community and governmental organizations, collaborated to develop the site in response to confusion among business owners over how to navigate business slow-downs and shutdowns in the wake of the pandemic.

“This unprecedented situation has created significant operational challenges for many businesses across West Michigan,” said Rick Baker, president and CEO of the Grand Rapids Chamber, a convening member of the coalition. “During these times it is crucial to concentrate our efforts on fierce advocacy for business, as well as business sustainability, and work to provide resources to foster a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all.”

Leaders from Experience Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Chamber and The Right Place, Inc. convened the coalition aimed at making critical information more accessible to all area businesses and their employees. Coalition members include Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce (West MI), City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc., Grand Rapids Urban League, Kent County, National Business League, Inc., West Michigan Hispanic Chamber and West Michigan Works!

“We back West Michigan business,” said Birgit Klohs, president and CEO of The Right Pl ace, Inc. “It’s the lifeblood of our local economy and what makes West Michigan such a great place to live. We know that a strong, vibrant business community will be key to our recovery when our region begins to emerge from this global crisis.”

While industries from manufacturing to hair salons have been affected, restaurants and bars have been particularly hard hit by the executive order.

“Our lifestyle businesses – hotels, breweries, restaurants, shops and attractions – are so important to the quality of life in West Michigan, and they’re critical to how we market our destination to business and leisure travelers,” said Doug Small, president and CEO of Experience Grand Rapids. “We want to do all we can to support them and help them come out strong on the other side of this crisis.”

For more information and to find resources to assist businesses and displaced employees, visit https://www.covidwm.org/.