Businesses in Lille and Nord get financial aid

Businesses damaged in Lille and the Nord department on October 17 and 18 can apply for a zero-interest loan and other forms of support to help them recover and continue operating. The Union des entreprises de proximité des Hauts-de-France announced on October 23 the available measures for artisans and merchants affected by the damage.

Zero-interest loan available for recovery

A zero-interest loan of 5,000 to 50,000 euros has been available since October 23 through the Bpifrance Solidarity Commerce Loan. This loan allows eligible businesses to borrow between 5,000 and 50,000 euros without collateral on company assets or the director’s personal property, with repayment spread over 36 months and a 12-month deferment period.

Eligibility and application process

The loan is available to individual enterprises, very small businesses, and commercial SMEs that have suffered actual damage. Eligible businesses must have been established for more than one year, provide at least twelve months of accounting documents, have a professional account, and work with an accountant registered with the Order. Applications are submitted digitally through Bpifrance.

Social contributions and tax deferrals

The Ministry of Economy plans to provide payment facilitation for the next three months' employer social contributions, with deferrals potentially reaching twelve months. Urssaf can grant these delays without penalty or late charges, and affected professionals must contact Urssaf to have their situation reviewed.

Financial aid for self-employed workers

Self-employed workers can apply for an exceptional financial aid from the Council for Social Protection of Self-Employed Workers (CPSTI), which can reach 6,000 euros depending on the damage. The U2P Hauts-de-France directs workers to the "Exceptional Financial Aid" form available on the Social Security for Self-Employed Workers’ website.

Part-time work and tax relief

Companies with reduced or interrupted activity can apply for the exceptional part-time work program. The state covers 60% of the gross salary of affected employees, with full compensation at the minimum wage level. Tax payment deadlines can also be requested directly from the tax authority responsible.

Insurance and declaration procedures

France Assureurs extended the declaration period to 30 days and offers accelerated processing for sensitive cases and advance payments. The federation recommends filing a police report and then quickly declaring the incident to the insurer. Compensation depends on the insurance policy's coverage and the assessment of damages.

Support contacts and guidance

Company leaders can contact the national business information number 0 806 807 807 for guidance. Additional support is available through the Hauts-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Chamber of Crafts and Industry, and the Lille Metropole Commercial Court, which can help identify procedures before cash flow deadlines accumulate.