Business resiliency is based in planning and preparedness. Having a business continuity strategy and disaster plan plays a critical role in ensuring companies can still operate after serious disruption.
To better assist state and federal officials in the deployment of resources, businesses who have been impacted are asked to complete the damage assessment survey linked below.
FloridaCommerce has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making loans available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Milton.
Polk County has been included in the major disaster declaration for Florida allowing citizens to access FEMA aid. Residents can get aid including grants for housing and home repairs, assistance for business owners and low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses.
To receive assistance, all eligible applicants will be required to submit application within 30 days of a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Citizens can apply for aid by registering online or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App.
SBA Assistance
The SBA has opened their Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program to help small businesses and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These working capital loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.
The SBA has available Business Physical Disaster Loans to assist businesses with the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged property including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.
The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been 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.
Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC) has disaster relief resources and information for Floridians in need of housing options and other housing related support.
Be Prepared
Assess your risk.
Taking time to evaluate how disasters could impact you business can impact how quickly your business returns to operations.
Create a Plan
Checklists and online toolkits are effective resources that can help you develop a resiliency plan for your business.
