Publications
Technology Solutions for PPP and Beyond
Research Brief
Report Summary
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.
Related Publications
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Data diversification in Credit Underwriting
This update catalogues recent initiatives involving the use of non-traditional credit data, including cash-flow information. It considers how dramatic shifts in economic conditions due to the Covid-19 pandemic and mass movements for racial justice have increased incentives to adopt new data sources and models, but also created new market and policy challenges.
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Covid-19 Credit Reporting & Scoring Update
Concerns about credit reporting and scoring issues are growing as early relief programs start to expire and the focus shifts from short-term forbearance to long-term repayment. This Research Brief updates market and regulatory developments as well as ongoing policy debates.
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Technology Solutions for PPP and Beyond
This Research Brief catalogues uses of new data and technologies to make it easier for small businesses to access federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds and other forms of credit. Solving PPP enrollment challenges is important to laying the foundation for a rapid and inclusive recovery and to building a more resilient small business sector…
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COVID-19 Triage (Series)
Rapidly adjusting credit reporting and underwriting practices and processing small businesses’ Paycheck Protection Program applications posed substantial challenges in the first months of the pandemic. In 2020, FinRegLab produced a series of research briefs highlighting emerging issues and innovations. Learn More
About FinregLab
FinRegLab is an independent, nonprofit organization that conducts research and experiments with new technologies and data to drive the financial sector toward a responsible and inclusive marketplace. The organization also facilitates discourse across the financial ecosystem to inform public policy and market practices. To receive periodic updates on the latest research, subscribe to FRL’s newsletter and visit www.finreglab.org. Follow FinRegLab on LinkedIn.
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