March 16th Coronavirus Update

The situation surrounding the Coronavirus is rapidly evolving and we at the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce want to make sure you are taking proper steps to protect your business and family.  At this time, per the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control, we are postponing all Chamber events through Friday, April 3rd.  We will evaluate future events in the coming weeks. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of this virus, there may be a need to postpone events beyond April 3^rd as well.

We want to ask for your patience during this challenging time and again ask for you to stay informed by following official government sources for the latest announcements and implore you to follow the guidance provided by government officials.  You can go to our dedicated Coronavirus Resources page for links to official information resources.  We will continue to update this page with resources for businesses and families as this situation progresses.  We will be sending a business survey later this weeks to determine the needs of our local business community.

For the time being, we will operate as a Virtual Chamber of Commerce.  Our office will be closed to visitors, but Chamber staff is still working and will continue to provide information for businesses and the public through our social media sites and via email.

Last week, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the activation of the Business Damage Assessment survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local business operations. 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 appropriate relief programs can begin.

I encourage you to register and take the Business Damage Assessment Survey online here. Results from this survey will be shared with state agencies and local partners. Surveys submitted by small businesses can be used to access the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan, made available for COVID-19 through the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. For inquiries or assistance with the survey, businesses can contact Emergency Support Function 18 at ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

Thank you for being understanding during this time.

Sincerely,