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Resources for Small Businesses

The Tampa Downtown Partnership understands the burden many of our downtown small businesses are facing due to coronavirus.

Below you will find some helpful resources for business owners. We will update this page periodically as new resources become available.

For updates on business resources, text TAMPABIZ to 888-777.


One Tampa: Relief Now, Rise Together Fund

The One Tampa: Relief Now, Rise Together program will provide direct payments for eligible businesses up to $4,000 for rent/mortgage; up to $1,000 for utilities.

Online applications will begin on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 at noon.

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan

On March 16, 2020, Governor DeSantis announced the opening of a $50 million disaster bridge loan. This provides zero-interest loans of up-to $50,000 for businesses that have been in business before March 9, 2020. As of March 26, 2020, the application process has changed. Effective immediately, eligible small businesses interested in applying for the Bridge Loan program should apply for the program through one of two ways:

  • Apply online and upload required supporting documentation or
  • Download an application, complete it and mail it with the required supporting documentation to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) at: Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, C/O Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan, 107 E. Madison Street, MSC-160, Tallahassee FL 32399-4120.

Note: Small businesses that already applied should not submit an additional application.

Tampa’s businesses are encouraged to apply as soon as possible at https://floridadisasterloan.org . These funds are limited. For more assistance, call the Florida SBDC at USF at 813-905-5800. You can also contact the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity toll-free at 833-832-4494 or email FloridaBusinessLoanFund@deo.myflorida.com.

Applications must be completed by May 8, 2020.

Florida Business Damage Assessment Survey

Business owners are asked to participate in the Florida Business Damage Assessment Survey . The results from this survey will allow Governor DeSantis to request that the federal government declare Hillsborough County a federal disaster area, which will open up additional sources of business funding through the Small Business Administration, FEMA and federal agencies.

Disaster Loan Assistance Program

Beginning January 31, 2020, the U.S. Small Business Administration began offering federal disaster loans for businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters under the Disaster Loan Assistance program. Visit the Disaster Loan Assistance program for more information and to apply online.

Tampa’s Recovery Hotline

For additional questions related to Business Relief, call the Tampa Recovery Hotline at 1-833-TPA-INFO (1-833-872-4636) or visit the City of Tampa’s Business Relief FAQ page.

Small Business Paycheck Protection Program

The Small Business Paycheck Protection Program provide small businesses with funds to pay up to 8 weeks of payroll costs including benefits. Funds can also be used to pay interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. Starting April 3, 2020, small businesses and sole proprietorships can apply. Starting April 10, 2020, independent contractors and self-employed individuals can apply. We encourage you to apply as quickly as you can because there is a funding cap.

Short Time Compensation Program For Employers

Production Interruption Loans

Small Business Loan Information