The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. Small businesses and sole proprietors can apply today, April 3. Independent contractors and self-employed individuals can apply starting April 10.

SBA will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. The Paycheck Protection Program will be available through June 30, 2020.

• Who is Eligible and How to Apply
• Program Fact Sheet from the U.S. Treasury
• Fact Sheet for Lenders
• Application here

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity has a Short Time Compensation program available to help small businesses continue to pay workers even with reduced work hours. Application information is available here, and the DEO’s Help Center is here for any questions you have.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters. Businesses can apply for loans online through a 3-step loan process here.

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans – Substantial economic injury means the business is unable to meet its obligations and to pay its ordinary and necessary operating expenses. These loans provide the necessary working capital to help small businesses survive until normal operations resume. The SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred. More information here.

The Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program is now closed.

Help local and state leaders assess community needs by taking the Business Damage Assessment Survey.