Emergency Loans Available for Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Helene

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2024) - FloridaCommerce has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available to assist businesses in affected counties, including Charlotte County. Local businesses are encouraged to explore this opportunity for financial assistance.

Eligible small businesses, including sole proprietors, can apply for short-term, zero-interest loans of up to $50,000, while agriculture and aquaculture businesses can apply for loans of up to $100,000. The program is designed to provide financial relief while businesses secure long-term recovery funding, such as insurance claims or federal loans. Applications are open now through Nov. 24, 2024, or until funds are exhausted.

To learn more about the program, including lending guidelines and required documentation, or to apply, visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL. For additional assistance, business owners can call 833-832-4494 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information on FloridaCommerce's programs and services, visit www.FloridaJobs.org.

For storm information, call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Those with internet access can find information on resources at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/storm.

Follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.x.com/ccoem.

For media information, contact Communications Director Brian Gleason at 941-661-6415 or [email protected].

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