The Institute for Local Self Reliance looks at government pandemic grants and loans…
An analysis by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance has found that cities, counties, states, and community organizations have established more than 800 programs to provide financial assistance to small businesses in the wake of the pandemic. These programs have deployed more than $9.27 billion in grants and loans. They have been fast, tailored to local needs, and have filled critical gaps in federal aid. They have helped businesses stay afloat and retool. Most of these programs have run out of funds, some within hours of launching. One important way Congress should address the unprecedented crisis facing small business is by quickly providing the resources local governments need to do this important work.
You know who benefits from these funds that run out so quickly? People with broadband fast enough to let them respond. That seems like it’s an exaggeration – but when I spoke to Pam Lehmann at Lac qui Parle County about broadband and their COVID preparation it came up immediately: