Our neighborhood is our family, and like all families, we want the best for you. We’ve put together resources for small businesses and residents that can be helpful during this difficult time.  

With over a century of historic achievements and a rich history of togetherness, we are confident we are going to persevere through this too – and come out stronger than before. 

Here are resources for businesses that can make this time easier on your operations and budget:

•  Back to Business Hillsborough Toolkit: Guidelines to resume business operations safely.
• Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) providing aid for small businesses that meet the following criteria: 

• • A small business with fewer than 500 employees  
  • A small business that otherwise meets the SBA’s size standard  
  • A 501(c)(3) with fewer than 500 employees  
  • An individual who operates as a sole proprietor  
  • An individual who operates as an independent contractor 
  • An individual who is self-employed who regularly carries on any trade or business  
  • A Tribal business concern that meets the SBA size standard  
  • A 501(c)(19) Veterans Organization that meets the SBA size standard 

                 Here is a small business owner’s guide to the CARES Act provided by the U.S. House and Senate  Small Businesses Committees. 

• Florida/Local Small Business Loan Relief: This is the primary state and local organization responsible for helping small businesses receive financial aid in partnership with banks. The Paycheck Protection Program has forgiveness built into the loan program for certain business expenses. 
• U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Now accepting applications for COVID-19 relief. Small Businesses can receive an Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance of up to $10,000. This advance is designed to provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. This loan advance will not have to be repaid.
• Save Small Business Fund by The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation and founding partner Vistaprint: This grant program provides assistance to small businesses owners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Funded by contributions from corporate and philanthropic partners, the Foundation will distribute $5,000 grants to small employers in economically vulnerable communities in the United States and its territories. Ybor City’s zip code of 33605 qualifies. 
• Florida Chamber COVID-19 toolkit has several resources and news updated on a regular basis.
• For nonprofits, here are loans available under the CARES Act. 
• Guide to small business COVID-19 Emergency Loans: What small businesses need to know about the new pandemic relief package.