Recently, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo announced a new short-term business bridge loan program to get immediate cash to businesses with 10 or fewer employees. These businesses may be eligible for Small Business Administration assistances through the federal stimulus plan. The Governor said that federal help may take longer to arrive and businesses looking to take advantage of the new state program should call (401) 521-HELP. Initially, the program will have $2-million available so small businesses should apply immediately.