Florida is home to many small and local businesses, ones that many members of the community love, but what happens during an emergency when these small businesses are impacted? Many businesses with less than 100 employees do not have a formalized business continuity plan and often lack the resources needed during times of economic downfall.
So what happens if you’re a small business owner and need help? The State of Florida usually activates what is called a bridge loan that is meant to help small businesses survive during an economic downturn. This loan is generally no interest and relatively a low amount, as it is meant to help business owners “get by.”
When Should Small Business Owners in Florida Consider a Bridge Loan?
Economic Crises
We all know the market fluctuates from time to time, but what happens when there’s a serious emergency or a small recession is happening? When businesses are hurting during an economic crisis, the Florida government will normally look for ways they can help small and local businesses stay afloat in order to help the economy survive because what is down is bound to come up again at some point.
Pandemics
As we have learned, pandemics can cause a chain reaction of events. Florida businesses can be affected when social interaction is advised against, when this happens and they are ordered to shut down or limit their services, they may need assistance for a small period of time. Having a loan to help business owners navigate through an uncertain time can be a critical need in times like these.
Hurricanes
Every year they threaten Florida for a whole six months. As we have learned in the past not only can they cause physical damage, but they can also cause damage to a business as people are forced to shift their focus. When a hurricane threatens Florida it can put small and local business owners on edge, but knowing they have options can help to ease the tension.
Natural Disasters
Aside from hurricanes Florida is prone to other natural disasters that can threaten businesses such as tornadoes, wildfires and flash flooding. Some of these natural disasters are hard to prepare for and when they strike can leave business owners feeling lost and helpless. It’s important as a business owner to be aware of what resources are available and in what scenarios you are eligible to receive them, natural disasters are one of them.
It’s hard to predict what will happen, however it’s even better to be prepared. For more information regarding Florida’s bridge loan program visit the resources provided by the Florida government. And if you would like to talk to someone regarding small business or commercial loans, see how the TFCU team can help.
