Interruptions in potable water service have posed significant challenges for many businesses in Puerto Rico. In response, the Government of Puerto Rico has made financial assistance programs available to support affected businesses and help them restore and sustain their operations.

DDEC Economic Recovery Program

The Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DDEC) announced an Economic Recovery Incentive Program that will provide up to $10,000 per business location to eligible small and medium-sized businesses affected by interruptions in potable water service.

The program is available to businesses located in San Juan, Bayamón, Guaynabo, Canóvanas, Carolina, Corozal, Loíza, Naranjito, Trujillo Alto, Vega Alta, Gurabo, Aguas Buenas, Juncos, Río Grande, and Caguas.

Among the main eligibility requirements, the business must generate annual sales of $1,000,000 or less, employ up to 25 full-time employees, maintain active operations, and meet the criteria established by the DDEC.

The incentive may be used to cover emergency-related expenses, including the purchase of water, the purchase or rental of water tanks and other storage equipment, losses of inventory or perishable goods, and other eligible expenses, in accordance with the program guidelines.

Mano Amiga Incentive Program for Tourism Businesses

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company also offers the Mano Amiga Incentive Program, an initiative designed to assist tourism-related businesses affected by water service interruptions. The program provides incentives of up to $10,000 to eligible businesses in the tourism sector.

Businesses that may qualify include restaurants, hostels, inns, guest houses, and other tourism-related businesses. This financial assistance is intended to help mitigate the operational impact caused by the emergency.

Where Can You Find More Information?

If your business operates in one of the affected areas or is part of the tourism industry, we encourage you to review each program’s guidelines and requirements directly to determine your eligibility.

These programs provide affected businesses with an opportunity to access resources that can help them continue operating and strengthen their recovery from the challenges caused by water service interruptions.