Besides SBA and bank loans, Florida businesses can sometimes use state and local programs. These change often, especially after hurricanes, so always confirm what is active today.
Where Florida programs come from
| Source | What to look for |
|---|---|
| FloridaCommerce (the state’s economic development agency) | Disaster programs, such as the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, which the state has activated after past hurricanes |
| Florida SBDC Network | Free advising, help applying for state and disaster programs |
| County and city economic development offices | Local revolving loan funds, façade grants, incentives tied to jobs |
| Community lenders and CDFIs in Florida | Small business loans with their own eligibility rules |
| SBA disaster loans | After a federal disaster declaration, low-interest SBA disaster loans for businesses and homeowners |
After a hurricane
- Document everything: photos, receipts, lost sales.
- File insurance claims right away.
- Check FloridaCommerce for bridge loan programs. These are usually short-term, meant to be repaid with insurance or SBA disaster loan proceeds.
- Apply for SBA disaster assistance if a declaration covers your county. Note: eligibility rules for SBA programs, including disaster loans, can differ; ask the SBA directly about any citizenship requirements that apply to your case.
- Talk to your SBDC for free help with applications.
Finding current local programs
- Call your county economic development office and ask about “small business loan funds”.
- Ask your local chamber of commerce, including Hispanic chambers.
- Ask the SBDC; advisors track what is open.
Don’t forget the SBA’s regular programs
For most Florida businesses, 7(a), 504 and Express loans remain the main tools. Florida is one of the most active SBA states: select Florida in our lender finder. Read Florida SBA loans for Hispanic businesses.
Frequently asked questions
Does Florida have emergency loans for businesses after hurricanes?
The state has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program after past hurricanes. Check FloridaCommerce for what is active now.
Who can help me apply for Florida programs?
The Florida SBDC Network offers free help with state and disaster loan applications.
Are SBA disaster loans available in Florida?
After a federal disaster declaration covering your county, the SBA offers disaster loans; ask the SBA about eligibility rules for your case.
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Educational information, not legal or financial advice. We are not a lender and are not affiliated with the SBA. Disclaimer