COVID 19 Resources

STATE OF FLORIDA

Report Your Business Damages

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the activation of the Business Damage Assessment survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local business operations. The survey, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy so actions to implement appropriate relief programs can begin.

The Business Damage Assessment Survey can be taken online at https://floridadisaster.biz/. Results from this survey will be shared with state agencies and local partners. Surveys submitted by small businesses can be used to access the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan, made available for COVID-19 through the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. For inquiries or assistance with the survey, businesses can contact Emergency Support Function 18 at ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

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Beaches, Bars & Restaurants

On March 17, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-68 to reduce density and crowds in restaurants, bars, nightclubs and beaches to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Please refer to Florida’s Department of Business & Professional Management (DBPR) for more information and guidance.

Small Business Bridge Loans

On March 16, Governor Ron DeSantis activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program to support small businesses impacted by COVID-19. The bridge loan program, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), provides short-term, interest-free loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury from COVID-19. Click here for more information.

Damage Assessment Survey

Governor Ron DeSantis has activated the Business Damage Assessment survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local business operations. The survey, managed by DEO, will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy so actions to implement appropriate relief programs can begin. The survey can be taken online at www.floridadisaster.biz.

Reemployment Assistance

Governor DeSantis has reminded Floridians that if their employment has been negatively impacted because of mitigation efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, these Floridians may be eligible to receive Reemployment Assistance. Click here for more information.

Florida’s residents and visitors should continue to refer to the DOH and CDC for the most up-to-date information and guidance on COVID-19:

Florida Department of Health (DOH)

U.S. Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC)

OTHER RESOURCES

Centers for Disease Control: The Centers for Disease Control continues to update guidance on COVID-19.

Enterprise Florida: The Official Economic Development Organization for the State of Florida.

Florida Chamber of Commerce: The Florida Chamber of Commerce is an organization devoted to the advocacy of private businesses in the State of Florida.

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity: The state and federal programs administered by DEO help support local businesses, engage talented job seekers and enhance our state's diverse communities.

Florida Small Business Development Center: State designated as Florida's principal provider of business assistance, the Florida SBDC provides tools and expertise to help Florida's small businesses succeed.

Small Business Administration: The SBA is a United States government agency that provides support to entrepreneurs and small businesses to plan and respond.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce: The largest business organization representing the interests of more than three million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions. They count on the chamber to be their voice in Washington, D.C.