Facebook joined a raft of businesses stepping up to play their part in the fight against COVID-19 this week by announcing a $100 million grant programme for small businesses affected by Coronavirus and is giving $1,000 to each of its employees to help cover costs during the pandemic.
COVID-19: Our members taking responsible business action
The top priority and focus for us has been making sure people can get access to good information and trusted sources during the pandemic.
Mark Zuckerburg, Chief Executive of Facebook
The majority of the $100 million grant will be distributed to small businesses in cash, with some ad credits for business services. Businesses do not need to be on Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp to apply.
Combating the spread of misinformation
And as a portal of information to over 2.5 billion people worldwide, they are combating the spread of COVID-19 misinformation by launching a one-stop shop portal of reliable updates and information.
Facebook COO Sheryl Sandburg said, “We’ve listened to small businesses to understand how we can best help them. We’ve heard loud and clear that financial support could enable them to keep the lights on and pay people who can’t come to work. That’s why today I’m announcing that Facebook is investing $100 million to help 30,000 small businesses in over 30 countries where our employees live and work.”
Business hub for resources
Struggling businesses can now also access Facebook’s new Business Hub, where they can find resources and advice to help small businesses stay connected to customers and keep their business going. It also includes direct access to credible and accurate information about COVID-19 to help businesses stay informed and will be updated with a raft of additional resources in coming weeks, including information on how to apply for the $100 million grant.
Facebook’s one-stop shop for all their users find accurate Coronavirus news also launched this week in an effort to play their part in reducing the spread of dangerous misinformation and unreliable advice on the virus.
WHAT IF ALL BUSINESSES CAME TOGETHER TO ADDRESS THE ESCALATING
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC IMPACT TO COVID-19?