DeSantis activates $20 million in small business relief loans after Idalia

By Michael Costeines

Published Sep. 1, 2023, 3:24 p.m. ET | Updated Sep. 1, 2023

Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to locals in Cedar Key, Fla. after Hurricane Idalia, Aug. 31, 2023. (Photo/Gov. Ron DeSantis' office)

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis made available $20 million in relief to small businesses in the aftermath of Hurricane Idalia via the Florida Small Business Bridge Loan Program.

Managed by FloridaCommerce, the program will provide short-term, zero interest loans to Florida businesses damaged economically or physically by the storm. The relief initiative is also monitored by Florida First Capital Finance Corporation.

DeSantis’ directed order currently applies to the following counties.

Alachua
Baker
Bradford
Citrus
Columbia
Dixie
Franklin
Gilchrist
Hamilton
Hernando
Hillsborough
Jefferson
Lafayette
Leon
Levy
Madison
Manatee
Marion
Pasco
Pinellas
Sumter
Suwannee
Taylor
Union
Wakulla

Businesses that are eligible can apply for loans of up to $50,000.

The loans are meant to “bridge the gap” between the time of a disaster- in this case, Idalia – impacting the business to when it has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans and insurance claims. All loans are to be reimbursed by the approved applicant.

Owners were asked to apply by Oct. 25 or until all available funds are expunged. Businesses are also asked to call 1-833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for further assistance.