There is little argument that since March we have been dealing with uncertain times. The COVID-19 pandemic has not only created vast health challenges, but also within the business community.
Osceola County and the state of Florida are no different. Businesses have been struggling to stay open, and to keep their employees working. But, there are some solutions that may help, and the City of Kissimmee and Osceola County are providing assistance to help for the short term.
The Osceola Emergency Relief Grant is a one-time grant from the Osceola CARES Act funding to provide reimbursement to eligible expenses between February 1 and May 31, 2020. Eligible expenses include commercial rent or mortgage payments, utilities, payroll, investments in materials or equipment necessary for reopening or operating during social distancing mandates such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), barriers, etc. The application is due by July 27, 2020. Residents can apply at kissimmeeresponds.com/business-assistance.
The Kissimmee Business Assistance Grant is a one-time grant given by the city of Kissimmee with CDBG-CV funding to cover expenses incurred after June 1, 2020 and include one month commercial rent or mortgage and one month utilities. This grant requires a number of documents to apply including: Federal Employee Identification Number (FEIN); DUNS number; documentation from the business’ landlord, mortgage holder, and/or utility companies showing the business is behind on payments from June 1, 2020 forward; business owner’s Florida Driver License or government issued photo identification card/document; business’ 2019 Income Tax Return (Form 1120); City of Kissimmee Business Tax Receipt (Business License); current lease (if applicable); Fictious Name Registration (if applicable); previous 3 months of payroll or other documentation showing a history of employees; and past 3 months of business bank statements. Residents can apply between 8 a.m. on July 15 thru 5 p.m. July 21, 2020.
It’s a lot of information, but it can help, and if you are a business, it may make the difference in being able to keep your business or organization open during the pandemic… or closing.
