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COVID Relief Funding
Last Updated: April 30, 2022
As Alaska continues to address the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, thread is here for you. Below are the latest financial resources to support you during these challenging times.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding
The funding for these grants were made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with the State of Alaska’s Child Care Program Office as the lead agency and thread as the intermediary for grant distribution.
Phase 2 – COVID-19 Child Care Stabilization Grant
Early Childhood Education Programs
- Apply Now!
- Application Deadline: June 1, 2022
Alaska ARPA Information Online
The Alaska ARPA website offers an extensive summary of resources relevant to Alaskans, tracking funds coming in, as well as grant opportunities for small businesses and non-profits. Learn more.
ARPA Funding Background
- American Rescue Plan Act: Overview for Child Care (Child Care Aware of America)
- Federal Relief Funds: State Progress, Winter 2022 (Blog update by Child Care Aware of America)
Tax Information
Questions about COVID funding you received and your taxes? Please consult with a tax accountant or tax preparer if you have specific questions about federal, state, or local COVID funding you received.
Other Available Grants for Small Businesses & Nonprofits
- Small Business Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund: For businesses with less than 500 employees. Learn more here.
- Rural Development Initiative Fund: For businesses in rural Alaska. Learn more here.
- Mat-Su Health Foundation – Coronavirus Prevention and Response Grants: For nonprofits in the Mat-Su Valley. Learn more here.
- Cook Inlet Tribal Council – Child Care Quality Improvement Grant Program: Supporting programs with health and safety tools, reimbursement for staff development, and educational opportunities. Learn more here.
- Note: Providers may apply for a grant one (1) time in a fiscal year: October 1- August 31
Child Care Start Up Assistance
- Seward Childcare Provider Startup Assistance Program: Financial assistance for starting a child care business. Learn more here.
Small Business Administration
Student Loans
- Federal Student Loan Forgiveness: Early childhood education employees may now be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness for a limited time. Some borrowers will need to consolidate their federal loans and/or submit a PSLF form by October 31, 2022 to take advantage of this opportunity. (US Office of Early Childhood Development)
Affordable Connectivity Program
- Affordable Connectivity Program [replaced the Emergency Broadband Benefit as of December 31, 2022]: provides up to $30-per-month discount for internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands, plus a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet or computer.
Tell Us Your Story
thread wants to hear from you about your COVID-19 experience and how federal and local funding has helped. Share your story.