The Old Florida House Awarded a $7,500 Forgivable Loan

The City of Cocoa has officially awarded a $7,500 forgivable loan to local event business The Old Florida House following owner Jessica Lee’s successful completion of the City’s UpStart Cocoa Business Development Program.

The City of Cocoa has officially awarded a $7,500 forgivable loan to local event business The Old Florida House following owner Jessica Lee’s successful completion of the City’s UpStart Cocoa Business Development Program. Launched in 2021, UpStart Cocoa supports the growth of small businesses through education, mentorship, and financial assistance. Each participant receives $10,000 in support, with $2,500 dedicated to business education and mentorship through weVENTURE in areas such as financial planning, marketing, operations, and human resources. After successfully completing the program, the remaining $7,500 can be released as a forgivable business loan to help grow their business. Lee completed the 24-week IGNITE 360 mentorship program through weVENTURE and signed her official agreement at the September 8, 2026 Cocoa City Council meeting. She expressed her gratitude to City leaders and shared that the experience has given her the confidence to move forward with her business. The funding converts into a permanent grant after three years of compliant local operation. Operating under the Old Florida Social Company umbrella in Historic Cocoa Village, The Old Florida House provides flexible, intimate event services and local hosting options. Offerings include a charming blank canvas event venue, expanding options at Magnolia Hall for hourly or full-day rentals, full-service event styling, and do-it-yourself tablescape rental kits starting at $175 for eight guests. The business also offers a mobile slush bar featuring customized frozen cocktail or mocktail menus. “The Upstart Cocoa Program strengthens the City of Cocoa’s role as a vibrant and competitive force in the Space Coast economy,” said Mayor Michael C. Blake. “We remain dedicated to empowering a diverse range of entrepreneurs and enriching the overall quality of life in our city.” Learn more about UpStart Cocoa at www.ChooseCocoa.org/UpStart.