Funding and Free Help for local businesses
- Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan: one-year, zero-interest loans of up to $100,000 (up to $150,000 for agriculture and aquaculture) to bridge the gap until insurance or longer-term funding comes through.
- For businesses established before the storm with up to 100 employees, physical damage or economic injury from Isaias, and owners with credit scores of 600 or higher.
- Owners personally guarantee the loan, and it must be repaid.
- Short-term rentals are not eligible.
- Apply by Nov. 25, 2026, or until funds run out.
- Apply: FloridaJobs.org/DisasterRecovery/EBL
- Have ready: owner ID (front and back), most recent business and personal tax returns, proof of employees (W-2s, 1099s, or Form 941), and a voided check.
- Questions: 1-833-832-4494 or EmergencyBridgeLoan@Commerce.fl.gov
- Florida SBDC at UWF: free, confidential consulting on recovery planning and financing options. 850-474-2528 | sbdc@uwf.edu
- State Private Sector Hotline: 850-815-4925, daily 7 a.m.-7 p.m., or ESF18@em.myflorida.com. Email that address for details on the state's daily private-sector briefings.
- Facing layoffs or a temporary closure? CareerSource EscaRosa's Rapid Response team can help you and your employees.
- Not available yet: SBA disaster loans; FEMA individual assistance, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance.
- The current federal declaration covers government response costs only. We'll let you know if any of these open.
Loan Program for Florida Farmers Impacted by Hurricane Isaias
Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced that Florida farmers, ranchers, and growers impacted by Hurricane Isaias can now apply for interest-free loans. Eligible agriculture and aquaculture producers can apply for loans of up to $500,000 to restore, repair, or replace essential physical property, including fences, equipment, greenhouses, and other buildings, or to remove debris or restock aquaculture.
Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/mrxubkh7
