Business Damage Assessment Survey to Assist in Expedition of Disaster Resources Following Hurricane Matthew
Florida SBDC Network Headquarters (Pensacola, Fla.) – As Hurricane Matthew continues its path across Florida’s east coast, impacted business owners are left with one question in mind: “Where is the help?”
The State’s Emergency Response Team (SERT) is assessing the ongoing damage caused by Hurricane Matthew. Officials are determining the extent of damage and what financial assistance will be made available.
Small businesses who have incurred losses are encouraged to complete the Business Damage Assessment Survey. This is not an application for disaster assistance. The survey will help the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) determine the needs and level of assistance for impacted businesses, including activation of the Emergency Bridge Loan Program and federal assistance, and help expedite implementation.
SERT is comprised of Governor-appointed Emergency Coordination Officers (ECO) from State agencies and volunteer organizations. Emergency Support Function (ESF) 18 Business, Industry, and Economic Stabilization coordinates local, state and federal agency actions that provide immediate and short-term assistance for the private sector. Further, ESF 18 works with business and industry to identify available resources to meet the needs of the State and its citizens.
As a principal responder in the state’s Emergency Support Function (ESF) 18, the Florida SBDC Network supports disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation through its Business Continuation Services.
To complete the survey, please visit www.flvbeoc.org.
For more information, please contact Network Disaster Coordinator Gerry Goldstein at (850) 898-3489 or Gerry.Goldstein@FloridaSBDC.org.
