Mid-Columbia Economic Development District’s business loan program is gearing up to help businesses in need of assistance during the COVID-19 crisis. Jessica Metta of MCEDD says the organization’s boards for its loan program for Wasco, Hood River, Sherman, Klickitat, and Skamania counties and the Oregon Investment Board’s focused on the Oregon side of the National Scenic Area discussed how to help current loan clients and potential new businesses. Metta says the two different entities have slightly different programs and amounts available. She adds more business assistance options are expected to be available as federal and state aid packages are put in place. MCEDD has numerous resources for businesses through its website, mcedd.org.