Despite the vital role that small businesses play in the U.S. economy, they face special challenges accessing capital and financial services even during periods of economic growth. Efforts to funnel $660 billion to such businesses through the federal Paycheck Protection Program in the wake of the pandemic have highlighted and in some cases further heightened these challenges.
Our research brief uses PPP enrollment as a case study of how data and technology can address these problems. The report catalogues uses of new data and technologies to verify identity, digitize application and underwriting processes, streamline analyses of what PPP moneys are forgivable, and minimize fraud and loan stacking. The brief also considers how industry and policymakers can build on lessons from PPP implementation to improve delivery of future pandemic-related aid and to create a more resilient and inclusive small business lending market for the long term.
Research Brief