The SC Arts Alliance and the SC Arts Commission are working together to provide resources and advocacy for the creative sector’s response to COVID-19.
COVID-19’s impact is ever-changing in our state. As such, if you need special assistance and we have not yet provided a resource for you, please reach out and let us know. We are here to help.
Digital Resources
The SC Arts Commission is managing the collection and distribution of digital resources for artists, arts organizations, and arts educators.
Policy-Related Issues
The SC Arts Alliance is working hard to make sure the arts are included in any and all policy conversations as it relates to the local / state / federal responses to COVID-19. Below are some of the key areas we are monitoring. We also will update theses areas with links to current resources, and also post links to ways you can help us take action and let our elected officials know the impact this virus is having on our industry.
Data Collection
In order to best position the arts for a seat at the table, we need data to back up the real loss this will have on the arts industry. Please fill out the survey below to help us acquire that data.
SC Legislature
We are monitoring issues at the Statehouse still, including the budget and education policy. However, in relation to the virus, aside from a $45m aid package targeting SC-DHEC and medical needs, the Legislature is leaning on the Governor at this time. It is unclear when the Legislature will take up comprehensive legislation around COVID-19, but we are finding ways to be proactive in making sure the legislature is aware of the impact to our industry.
Please take action by clicking some of the links below.
- Individuals: Letter of Concern to Legislature >> [coming soon]
- Organizations / Companies: Sign-On Letter to Legislative Leaders >> [coming soon]
Unemployment / Unemployment Insurance
We know that closures and cancelations translate into lost revenue and uncertain futures for staff. Short of direct aid, one measure employees may seek is unemployment. The federal government has granted greater flexibility to states in the issuance of unemployment benefits, and many organizations may find that their employees qualify if it is related to COVID-19. While the SC Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) has not yet issued specific language as to how they are interpreting that flexibility, aside from a generic statement on their individual filing page, we have listed links below to help you understand the program. At this time, we recommend individuals / employers contacting the DEW office for clarifications.
- US Department of Labor press release on Unemployment flexibility for states. >>
- DEW – COVID-19 >>
- DEW – Individuals Apply for Benefits >>
- DEW – Individual Unemployment Insurance Eligibility >> (note: may be adjusted with new flexibility)
- DEW – Nonprofit Employer Info >>
Federal Aid Packages
When full packages are passed, or action is available to be taken, we will post them here.
- Americans for the Arts has issued an email campaign to encourage Congress to fund the estimated (to-date) $4 billion impact of COVID-19 on the arts through the National Endowment for the Arts. Send your email here >>
- The “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” includes many items to help the economy and individuals. Passed House and Senate, unchanged between chambers. Read the House version summary >>
Funder / Grant Policy Changes
Many arts nonprofits are dependent upon grants. With the COVID-19 crisis crippling many organizations, the industry is left wondering about how it will handle various aspects of its grant funding. Our advice is first, contact your funders for guidance. We have talked with many funders across the state already and they are looking at how to make their policies more flexible for this crisis. When we are made aware of changes that can be publicly published, we will do so here.
Small Business Disaster Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has created greater flexibility in their Disaster Loan program. Any business hurt by COVID-19’s economic impact is eligible to apply for an SBA loan. At this time, nonprofits are eligible to receive these loans at a reduced rate (2.75%).
