Florida approves more than $4.5 million in bridge loans for Isaias-hit small businesses
The state has approved bridge loans for 65 small businesses hurt by Hurricane Isaias while they wait for insurance and other long-term funding.
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Florida has approved more than $4.5 million for small businesses hurt by Hurricane Isaias, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Oct. 19, 2026. The governor’s news release is datelined Destin, in Okaloosa County.
What the bridge loans cover
Sixty-five businesses have been approved to receive funds through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, according to the governor’s release. The money is meant to bridge the gap while businesses wait for other long-term funding, such as insurance.
The release says more applications are still in process. Its headline says the approvals came within 10 days after Hurricane Isaias.
What the announcement does not say
The release does not give a county-by-county breakdown of the approvals, the maximum loan amount, the repayment terms or the steps to apply. Business owners who need help should check the governor’s news page for updates on the program.
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Questions and answers
- How much did Florida approve for small businesses after Hurricane Isaias?
- More than $4.5 million has been approved through the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program for small businesses affected by Hurricane Isaias, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Oct. 19, 2026, according to the governor's news release.
- Are the Florida bridge loans long-term funding for hurricane-damaged businesses?
- No. According to the governor's release, the funds bridge the gap while businesses wait for other long-term funding, such as insurance.
