Business Briefs

Emergency Business Loans
Florida Commerce has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available to assist businesses in affected counties. Local businesses are encouraged to explore this opportunity for financial assistance. Eligible small businesses, including sole proprietors, can apply for short-term, zero-interest loans of up to $50,000, while agriculture and aquaculture businesses can apply for loans of up to $100,000. The program is designed to provide financial relief while businesses secure long-term recovery funding, such as insurance claims or federal loans. Applications are open now through Nov. 24, 2024, or until funds are exhausted. To learn more about the program, including lending guidelines and required documentation, or to apply, visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL. For additional assistance, business owners can call 833•832•4494 from 8M – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday. 

 

 

Bad Ass Coffee
Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii has announced a three-store signed agreement in Florida. The first location is anticipated to open in Englewood at 1231 Beach Rd. in early 2025, with the additional two stores slated to open in the greater Port Charlotte market and surrounding communities over the next five years. Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii was born on the Big Island of Hawaii in 1989 and is dedicated to sharing premium Hawaiian coffees “with a kick” from the Hawaiian Islands.

On September 19, the Englewood Chamber of Commerce held its annual Chamber President’s Luncheon at the Rotonda Golf & Country Club. Fifteen Past Presidents were in attendance. Pictured here are (l-r): Bill Burdick (1982), Gratia Schroeder (1989), Dorian Popescu (1997), Brian Faro (2021), Carol Moore(2017), Dave Kelly (2009), Erin Halstead (2024), Mary Smedley (2019), Herb Stephens (1999), Jonathan Cole (2004), Nita Edmonson-Cole (1996), Shane Whitmore (2023) and Dean Hanewinckel (1995). Not pictured: Karen Current (2008) and Elaine Miller (2014).