When Hurricane Ian struck Southwest Florida on September 28th, 2022, causing widespread devastation and loss, ERC’s co-founder Chase and a group of close family friends immediately sprang into action to provide much-needed assistance to the affected residents. They distributed essential supplies such as food, water, and other necessities, showcasing a heartwarming display of unity and compassion.

To their surprise, what unfolded in the aftermath of the hurricane was genuinely remarkable. The entire Southwest Florida community came together, forming lines akin to parades, as individuals, local organizations, and even national brands joined forces to offer support and aid. Yet, amidst the pain and chaos, one group stood out for not receiving the same level of assistance: the local business owners. It was not a matter of race, gender, or social class but a shared struggle faced by these entrepreneurs.

Recognizing this disparity, Chase and his father, Craig (an experienced and multiple-award-winning entrepreneur and business owner), took it upon themselves to address the needs of these struggling businesses. After extensive research, they identified the Employee Retention Tax Credit program (ERTC) as a valuable resource that could make a significant difference. This program allows businesses to claim up to $26,000 per employee for retaining their workforce during the pandemic. To their surprise, they discovered many companies in Southwest Florida were unaware of the program; the community was left in chaos from the combination of closed businesses due to the pandemic and the carnage left by Hurricane Ian.

Over the next year, the dedicated team at the Economic Recovery Center worked tirelessly to help businesses enroll in the ERTC program. Their efforts paid off immensely, resulting in over $10 million in funds claimed for small businesses in Southwest Florida and various other cities across the United States. Through their determination and genuine desire to make a difference, the Economic Recovery Center has become a beacon of hope for businesses in need, offering crucial support during adversity.

Throughout their first year in business, the ERC team has cultivated strong relationships with local and state government officials. Developing these relationships has allowed ERC to gain valuable insights into the specific needs of business communities in Florida. Additionally, they have actively participated in local relief efforts like ResilientLee and have expanded their expertise and product portfolio to include initiatives such as the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. These endeavors align perfectly with the center's core mission to empower small to medium-sized businesses affected by natural disasters to find the funding & resources they need to protect themselves before, during, and after a disaster.

As the Economic Recovery Center continues to grow and evolve, its commitment to supporting the economic revival of communities remains unwavering. Their dedication to making a positive impact and their ability to adapt to the ever-changing needs of businesses is a testament to the power of compassion and resilience.

With each passing day, the Economic Recovery Center strives to increase its efforts and make a lasting difference in the lives of those affected by natural disasters. Empowering businesses and providing them with the necessary tools and support will pave the way for a brighter future and a more resilient economy.