This week, we look at what the SBA is doing to ensure small businesses get their PPP money, a possible "Cash For Clunkers" reappearance and what Google and Apple are doing to fight the pandemic. 

To reach out to congress about the Cash for Clunkers, click here.

It’s the beginning of a new month. How is your business doing? Are things returning to normal? Getting worse? Let us know. Email me at [email protected] 

Rissy Sutherland, one of the foremost experts in shop operations, president of SRS+Co, former shop owner and Ratchet+Wrench columnist, leads a panel discussion on marketing during the coronavirus on what shop owners should be doing now moving into the summer months.

This week, Ratchet+Wrench is providing an update on the funding available to small business owners. 

For more information, click here:

A breakdown of government funding available

Tekmetric blog “The Latest on Paycheck Protection Program for Auto Repair Shops 

It’s almost May and we’re curious, how are you holding up? Have you seen business pick up? What questions can we help you answer? Email [email protected] with any questions or business updates you have!

When you think of customer service, what's the first thing that comes to mind? For a lot of people, especially Millennials and Gen-Zers, it's all about convenience; customers will go to the first place that can get them what they need. A way to provide that convenient, 24/7 service? Utilizing an online chat platform.

In this episode of the Grow segment, Ratchet+Wrench staff writer Abby Patterson sat down with Rob Infantino, founder and CEO of Openbay, about the opportunities that an online chat platform can bring to the table.

This week, Ratchet+Wrench shares an update on federal lending and options that shops have. 

During this difficult time, it can be hard to put on a happy face. But, as the leader of your operation, it's up to you to encourage your employees and help them through. Monthly guest Aaron Stokes offers up words of encouragement. 

This week’s round-up includes announcements from OEMs and industry organizations due to the coronavirus. 

For more information on the Transformer’s Institute course, click here:

For more insight into the EV study mentioned, click here.

With the coronavirus pandemic affecting businesses worldwide, the essential businesses are able to keep their doors open. But even with this, auto repair shop operators are having to get creative with their business practices.

Dwayne Myers, owner of Dynamic Automotive, Ratchet+Wrench Management Conference speaker, and All-Star Award winner, talks with staff writer Abby Patterson about ways they've switched up usual business practices to keep the business moving.

In this episode of From the Editors, Bryce and Anna recap the many conversations they've had with shop owners and industry stakeholders to present the very best tips, strategies and insights for successfully getting your shop through COVID-19. From workflow to financial assistance to leadership, learn the strategies working for the industry's best operators.

Last week, we continued to cover the coronavirus and the impact that it’s had on the automotive industry, including a very special panel discussion with Rissy Sutherland of SRS & Co., Jimmy Alauria of 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair, Bob Redding of Automotive Service Association - ASA and Greg Buckley of Buckley's Auto Care. To listen, click here. 

The industry continues to support auto repair shop owners by offering online training and webinars, which can be linked to within this story. 

Another very important development for small business owners, The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship issued information about major programs that will soon be available from the Small Business Association, which Jim Murphy, pro service coach with Elite, was kind enough to share with Ratchet+Wrench. Link here. 

What can we help you with in the coming weeks? Please email me and let me know at [email protected]