The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a reminder to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations within the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe about the approaching deadline for applying for federal disaster loans. These loans aim to mitigate economic losses resulting from severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding that occurred on July 13-14, 2024.
This disaster declaration extends to several South Dakota counties, including Corson, Dewey, Haakon, Meade, Pennington, Perkins, Potter, Stanley, Sully, Walworth, and Ziebach.
Under this declaration, the SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is accessible to small businesses and private nonprofits that experienced financial losses directly related to the disaster. However, agricultural producers such as farmers or ranchers are not eligible unless they operate small aquaculture enterprises.
These EIDLs provide working capital for businesses impacted by the disaster. The funds can be used for fixed debts, payrolls, accounts payable, and other expenses not covered due to the event. Chris Stallings of the SBA stated: "SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster which is crucial for their recovery."
Eligible applicants can receive loans up to $2 million with interest rates starting at 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for nonprofits. Terms can extend up to 30 years without accruing interest or requiring payments until one year after the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines loan amounts based on each applicant’s financial situation.
Applications can be submitted online at sba.gov/disaster or through contact with SBA’s Customer Service Center via phone or email. Those who require telecommunications relay services should dial 7-1-1.
The deadline for submitting completed loan applications is August 1.