TAMPA, Fla. — Up and down Florida’s west coast, thousands of businesses remain closed as repairs begin from surge flooding during Hurricane Helene.

On Davis Islands Boulevard, only a few businesses have been able to reopen, and they are illustrating the importance of the services the business community provides.

What You Need To Know

  •  FloridaCommerce offering up to $50,000 Emergency Bridge Loans for businesses impacted by Helene

  • Loans are made on a short-term basis and must be paid back 

  •  $40 million in funds are available

  • The program could aid thousands of businesses statewide

Pioneer Cleaners and Laundry was able to open early this week after taking on three feet of surge flooding, and although worker Phyillis Watson-Miller says the business does have damage to repair, being able to help customers is making a big difference.

“A lot of people can’t do their laundry,” said Watson-Miller. “Towels, sheets, comforters, blankets, regular just clothes. It’s soaking wet, you know, it was so heavy.”

But many businesses haven’t been as lucky, and could remain closed for several more weeks or even months.

FloridaCommerce is now offering Emergency Bridge Loans for businesses impacted by the storm.

The fund has $40 million and is offering businesses up to a $50,000 short-term loan to make quick repairs.

View more information on the emergency bridge loan program.