In response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued on March 19, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that it will provide low-interest federal disaster loans to certain private nonprofit organizations in West Virginia. These organizations were affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides from February 15-18, 2025.
The disaster declaration includes the counties of Greenbrier, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Monroe, Summers, Wayne, and Wyoming.
Under this declaration, private nonprofits offering non-critical services of a governmental nature can apply for both business physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Eligible organizations include food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.
These nonprofits may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace real estate and equipment damaged or destroyed by the disaster. Additionally, applicants may qualify for a loan increase of up to 20% of their verified physical damages for mitigation purposes.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs resulting from the disaster even if no physical damage occurred. The loans can be used for fixed debts and other expenses not covered due to the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster," said Chris Stallings from the SBA's Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. "These loans not only help businesses get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
Interest rates start at 3.625%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue until one year after the first loan disbursement. Loan amounts and terms depend on each applicant’s financial condition.
Applications can be submitted online at sba.gov/disaster or through SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Telecommunications relay services are available by dialing 7-1-1 for those who need it.
The deadline for submitting applications for physical property damage is May 19, 2025. Economic injury applications must be submitted by December 19, 2025.