Hurricane Milton Business Recovery Resources + Disaster Assistance

While dealing with the fallout and damage from Hurricane Milton, it’s important to be aware of the multitudes of resources that are currently available to Florida residents and business owners in need.

Hurricane Milton Business Recovery Resources

Business response resources are now available for Florida companies. The resources outlined below focus on state and federal level resources.

If your business has been impacted please visit the floridadisaster.biz website. Local and state organizations can expedite recovery efforts with the completion of the Business Damage Assessment Survey. Survey responses will allow the state to advance Hurricane Milton recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses. If the storm affected your business, please complete the form.

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $50 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton. 

Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer-term recovery funding. 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. Loans of up to $150,000 are available for citrus and cattle operations.

Florida small business owners in need of assistance should visit FloridaJobs.org/EBL. There, they can apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. 

FEMA Disaster Assistance for Polk County Citizens

The major disaster declaration for Florida includes Polk County, allowing citizens access to FEMA aid. Residents can get aid including grants for housing and home repairs. Assistance for business owners can include low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses.

All eligible applicants are required to submit an application within 30 days of a Presidential Disaster Declaration to receive assistance. Citizens can apply for aid by registering online or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App.

Other Resources for Florida Residents

The Florida Disaster Contractors Network activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network.

Additionally, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) has disaster relief resources and information for Floridians in need of housing options and other housing related support.

For even more resources, both local, statewide, and federal, visit our Business Preparedness page.