American Rescue Plan Act Business Resources
New assistance programs are now available for workers and businesses as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. See the “Workers & Businesses” section on our Where to Get Help page.
Pinellas CARES Small Business Grants
The application window for Pinellas CARES Small Business Grants closed on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020.
This program provided grant funding for Pinellas-based businesses most affected by the pandemic, including businesses that were required to shut down or whose customers were required to shut down or stop doing business.
Business owners with an application currently in progress can review the status of their application and upload supporting documents through the participant portal below. New applications cannot be accepted.
Program statistics:
- Launched: May 4, 2020 (initial program); Aug. 31, 2020 (second program)
- Est. Program Investment: $48.9 million
- Total Approved: 5,389 applicants
- Total Awarded: $55.6 million
Additional Resources for Businesses
For the latest updates about resources for Pinellas County businesses, visit the Pinellas County Economic Development website. Florida businesses can also visit http://floridadisaster.biz for more information.
Business Safety Protocols
Following Governor DeSantis’ executive order, 21-102, Pinellas County announces the following updates effective immediately:
- COVID-19 ordinance requiring face coverings and certain safety protocols at businesses is rescinded.
- The order requiring safety plans requirements for large events is also rescinded.
Private businesses and organizations in Pinellas may still require face coverings and/or any other safety protocols as part of their own business operation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided extensive resources and information for businesses to help keep customers and employees safe. You can view it here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/workplaces-businesses/index.html
Reporting Business Losses
Business can report economic losses related to COVID-19 online.
The survey, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy so actions to implement economic relief programs for businesses can begin.
