FEMA Disaster Assistance Is Now Available
Many people may not have the necessary insurance coverage to fully restore their businesses, homes, damaged trees, or vehicles after a disaster. FEMA offers assistance with these issues, as well as temporary housing and property loss. FEMA has announced that applications are now being accepted online, through their mobile app, and via phone.
For more information, visit their official website.
Tampa Bay Chamber Of Commerce Links
During these challenging times of recovery from Hurricane Helene, the Tampa Bay Chamber acknowledges that all businesses will be impacted in some way. The Chamber remains committed to being a resource for the community. Their dedicated Public Health and Safety webpage is regularly updated with the latest information on Hurricane Helene recovery assistance, which can be accessed here.
The Chamber has expressed its dedication to supporting the community and will continue to serve businesses to the best of its ability. They encourage anyone with questions, comments, or concerns to reach out for assistance.
FloridaCommerce Activates the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, Making $15 Million Available for Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Businesses across Hillsborough County that were impacted by Hurricane Helene can now apply to the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.
The Emergency Bridge Loan program, which is administered by the Florida Department of Commerce, provides short-term, zero-interest working capital loans that are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources.
Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program. Loans of up to $100,000 are available for agriculture and aquaculture small businesses.
Visit FloridaJobs.org/EBL to learn more about the program, view the lending guidelines and required documentation, and complete an application by the November 24, 2024 deadline. Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time.
Business Damage Assessment Survey Now Available
The State of Florida has opened the Business Damage Assessment Survey for Hurricane Helene. Please take a moment to complete the survey. Completing the survey helps to ensure the appropriate services are available during recovery.
Resources Available from Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County
Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County disaster recovery specialists are available to provide confidential, no-cost consulting to help affected businesses prepare disaster loan applications and with other post-disaster challenges. Florida SBDC disaster specialists work alongside SBA business loan specialists to provide information about resources available and assist businesses in completing state and federal disaster loan applications.
The Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County can be reached at HCFL.Gov/FSBDC or (813) 204-9267, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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