The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) application deadline has been extended to May 31, offering small businesses another opportunity to secure critical funds to curb the economic ripple effects of the pandemic.

During the first round of Paycheck Protection Loans last year, Customers Bank of West Reading was able to assist in more than 100,000 PPP loans totaling more than $5 billion.

Women-owned businesses are a significant force in the U.S. economy. A nationwide study released April 23 suggested many women owned businesses may not be getting their fair share of Paycheck Protection Program funding, and some have had to apply to more than one lender to be successful.

While much of the discussion on the economy’s post-pandemic future has been negative, a recent flash poll conducted by Herbein + Co. of Wyomissing shows surprising optimism among business leaders in the Mid-Atlantic.