Small Business Rental Assistance Program (SBRAP) FAQs

Last updated on December 09, 2020

The Small Business Rental Assistance Program, in partnership with the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), is part of the CRA's COVID relief efforts. This program allows eligible small businesses in downtown to apply for a rent subsidy for up to $5,000 per month for a maximum of $30,000 per business. 

 Frequently asked questions about the SBRAP:

What does the letter from my landlord need to say?

The letter should depict an amended lease or mortgage agreement reflecting an abatement, reduction or deferral of rent or mortgage payments for a minimum of six months.

My landlord has abated my rent since May. How does the 45 day rule work? Am I penalized because my rent was already abated?

No, you are not penalized for previous concessions, however, the reimbursement provided by the city cannot be used to pay for previous concessions. 

When does the reimbursement process begin?

This process will begin following  the approval of the application by the Community Redevelopment Agency and execution of the applicable agreement. 

I already received other PPP. Does this disqualify me?

No, it is actually an eligibility requirement that applicants provide evidence that they applied for the Paycheck Protection Program, Orange County's Small Business Assistance Program, or some other form of local, state or federal assistance.

Why doesn’t our business qualify? (from businesses such as architectural firms, law firms, etc.)

Currently, the program is limited to retail and consumer service businesses with 50 or less full-time employees. 

My landlord is not willing to reduce, abate or defer my rent, how can I still get help?

Assistance from your landlord is required to be eligible for this program, however, to see if you may qualify for other incentive programs being offered by the city, please visit this section of the downtown Orlando website.

Is the program retroactive? My landlord gave me a break before but will no longer offer that.

No, funding from this program cannot be used  to cover retroactive payments that resulted from previous concessions. 

My landlord has abated my rent since May. How does the 45 day rule work? Am I penalized because my rent was already abated?

No, you are not penalized for previous concessions, however, the reimbursement provided by the city cannot be used to pay for previous concessions. 

 Click here for more information and how to apply. 

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