Huntsville small business waiting to hear back on coronavirus assistance loan

Huntsville small business waiting to hear back on coronavirus assistance loan

The clock is ticking for businesses across north alabama.

Time's running out on how long some can stay open.

Also adding to their problems - delays getting loans.

Waay 31's sydney martin is live in south huntsville after with the struggle this afternoon after talking to one local business about the process.

The sportspage here on south memorial parkway is on day 13 of waiting to hear back about its loan request.

One of the co-owners told me they're trying to stay patient but are getting nervous.

Brian o'beirne, co-owner"thank god our customers are great.

We've been selling a lot of food, but it's not enough to sustain the business itself."

It's why the sportpage applied for an economic injury disaster loan.

Also known as an eidl.

I first talked to the restaurant owners a month ago when the state ordered all restaurants and bars to close their doors to the public and only allow take-out or delivery.

Owners brian o'beirne and mike roberts told me takeout and delivery aren't enough.

Two weeks ago, they asked the small business administration for help.

Brian o'beirne, co-owner "i know they're busy.

I know they're going to get to it.

Now, this particular loan is one that would not have to be repaid... and can include a 10 thousand dollar cash advance within a week.

O'beirne said they applied two weeks ago.

Brian o'beirne, co-owner "i'd like to hear and no one way or another.

If it goes another week, i'll probably get concerned."

O'beirne said the e-i-d-l is the only loan they applied for.

It's different than the more commonly known paycheck protection program.

Brian o'beirne, co-owner"we're scared to of getting out to too many programs because we don't want to get in trouble for double dipping or using money we're not supposed to use.

We're just trying to do it right."

He told me while they're struggling to get by... brian o'beirne, co-owner"i never ever though this would be what got us to the edge."

They're thankful for their customers and their landlord for all the support during the pandemic.

Brian o'beirne, co-owner"thank god my landlord has been extremely cool throughout the entire process and he's giving us slack on rent because if that was due we wouldn't make it."

Money for the eidl comes directly from the small business administration instead of a bank.

The application is also streamlined.

Live in huntsville sm waay