Stories

Small Business Recovery Resources Following the North Florida Tornadoes

05/16/2024

In the aftermath of the devastating North Florida tornadoes on May 10, OEV is compiling a comprehensive list of small business recovery resources to assist those impacted. These resources will include information on financial aid, grants, loan programs, technical assistance, and other support services designed to help small businesses rebuild and thrive once again. Check back regularly for updates.

SBA Offering Disaster Assistance for Businesses Affected by Tornadoes

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses and residents in Florida following the announcement of a Presidential disaster declaration for severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes that occurred on May 10. Small businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in Tallahassee-Leon County are eligible for Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA.

Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

FloridaCommerce has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $2 million available for businesses impacted by the recent severe weather that impacted North Florida. If your business was affected by the May North Florida Tornadoes, you may qualify for up to $50,000 in assistance through Florida’s Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.

Register for the Florida Disaster Contractors Network

Florida-licensed contractors providing post-storm construction-related services are encouraged to register with the Florida Disaster Contractors Network. Registration allows the general public to connect with contractors offering storm-related services when storms or other natural disasters hit areas of Florida. This resource also allows the contractor to search for postings by property owners for services they provide.

Closed Resources

Targeted Emergency Assistance Microgrant (TEAM) Leon: Assists businesses located in unincorporated Leon County that experienced business disruption, loss of inventory, or major property damage.

Florida Business Damage Assessment Survey: assesses the needs of Florida business owners impacted by the May North Florida Tornadoes. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of affected businesses.

Technical Assistance Event for Tornado Hit Businesses: SBDC staff will be available to assist small businesses in applying for interest-free Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loans to help cover financial losses from the May North Florida Tornadoes. Florida SBDC @ FAMU; Tuesday, May 21; 10am – 3pm; 625 E. Tennessee St, Tallahassee, FL 32308.

Recent Stories
View all
May 22, 2025

As the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season approaches, which is projected to have above-normal hurricane activity, businesses in Tallahassee-Leon County must prepare for potential storms before they strike. Hurricanes can cause widespread disruption, but a solid preparedness plan can help your business weather the storm and recover quickly. Why Hurricane Preparedness Matters   Natural disasters like hurricanes can lead […]

May 16, 2025

This week marks National Economic Development Week, and the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality (OEV) is proud to celebrate the partnerships, programs, and progress that move our community forward.  Since our founding in 2016, OEV has been committed to building a strong, inclusive, and resilient economy. Together with our community partners, we have generated […]