SBDC at USF Contact for Bridge Loan Applicants

The Florida Small Business Development Center Network (FSBDC), which includes the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of South Florida (USF) has been appointed the primary technical assistance provider of the Florida Emergency Bridge Loan program.

The Florida Emergency Bridge Loan program was activated in early June by Governor Crist to assist businesses impacted by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. The Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade & Economic Development has allocated $5 million in an effort to provide short-term emergency funding to businesses in need of immediate cash flow as a result of being physically or economically impacted by the oil spill.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” stated Eileen Rodriguez, SBDC at USF regional director. “These short term loans will provide the much needed assistance for those who have been impacted by the oil spill.”

Short-term loans of up to $25,000 will be available to small business owners impacted by the oil spill. The loans are interest-free for 12 months. To apply, the business owner must have been operational for one full year prior to the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and must demonstrate physical damage or economic injury as a result of the oil spill.

In the Tampa Bay region, the approved counties are: Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota. The SBDC at USF has set-up a hotline for people who seek assistance. The numbers are (813) 384-8232 (English) and (813) 384-8233 (Spanish).

For more information about the program, requirements and related forms, visit: www.floridaoilhelp.com