The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced the opening of three Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) in Florida to assist small businesses and private nonprofit organizations affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The centers, located in Manatee, Sarasota, and Volusia counties, aim to help those who have sustained economic losses due to these natural disasters.
At these centers, SBA customer service representatives will be available to provide information about the SBA’s disaster loan program, guide individuals through the application process, and assist with completing applications. Walk-ins are welcome; however, appointments can be scheduled in advance via appointment.sba.gov.
Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA, stated: "SBA’s BRCs have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster." He emphasized that business owners could meet specialists face-to-face at these centers for guidance on the disaster loan application process and access resources for recovery.
The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available for small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. However, agricultural producers such as farmers or ranchers are not eligible unless they are part of small aquaculture enterprises.
These loans cover working capital needs caused by the disaster and can be used even if no physical damage occurred. They may help pay fixed debts, payrolls, accounts payable, and other bills disrupted by the disaster. Loan amounts can reach up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for nonprofits. Terms extend up to 30 years with deferred interest accrual and payments until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
For more information on how to apply online or receive additional assistance regarding disasters, visit sba.gov/disaster or contact the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Telecommunications relay services are available for those who need them by dialing 7-1-1.
Deadlines for returning economic injury applications are set for June 24, 2025, for Tropical Storm Debby and June 30, 2025, for Hurricane Helene.