business backgrounder | awb response
the first time, AWB’s Spring Meeting and Workforce Summit were
presented virtually.
covid-19 resources for employers web page
This web page became a go-to resource for employers and the
broader community early in the crisis. Topics include grant
opportunities, how to file for unemployment, and the latest public
health guidance.
advocating for construction and manufacturing
While much of the state remained in a lock down, AWB’s
government affairs staff worked closely with state officials and other
organizations to develop guidelines that would allow parts of the
construction industry to get back to work safely. Later, AWB used
that experience to advocate for a safe reopening of all manufacturing
operations.
rebound and recovery
In April, AWB launched the Rebound and Recovery Task Force.
The committee, co-chaired by Tim Schauer of MacKay Sposito, and
Michelle Hege of DH in Spokane, included public sector leaders
Lisa Brown, director of the Department of Commerce, and Suzi
LeVine, Employment Security commissioner, as well as privatesector
leaders from 17 diverse sectors.
In a matter of weeks, the task force spearheaded development
of the ReboundandRecovery.org website that featured an online
portal connecting hundreds of Washington manufacturers to small
businesses that needed to buy personal protective equipment
to reopen safely. Many of these manufacturers adjusted their
operations to produce this PPE in-state. Notably, this website also
offers a business tool kit with information and resources needed to
help employers safely welcome back employees and customers.
The task force continues meeting regularly with a focus on
economic recovery.
olympia business watch
The go-to blog for the business community featured updates
on the Paycheck Protection Program, grant opportunities and
Congressional action on federal spending bills.
fast facts
AWB’s trusted weekly newsletter continues to provide more than
7,000 readers the latest breaking news on the pandemic and its
economic aftershocks.
grassroots alliance
The Grassroots Alliance newsletter typically publishes weekly
during the legislative session, then slows down over the rest of
the year. But the fast pace over the first half of the year required
ongoing weekly updates to chamber of commerce leaders
throughout the state.
36 association of washington business