Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Nebraska affected by drought conditions beginning May 13 can now apply for federal disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA announced that its Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible entities in several Nebraska counties, as well as Decatur, Norton, and Rawlins counties in Kansas.
The EIDL program provides working capital loans to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits—including faith-based organizations—that have suffered financial losses due to the drought. However, the SBA noted that agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers are not eligible for these loans unless they operate small aquaculture enterprises.
The loans can be used for various operating expenses such as fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could not be paid because of the disaster. Physical damage to property is not required for eligibility.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
Eligible applicants may borrow up to $2 million with interest rates set at 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits. Repayment terms can extend up to 30 years based on each applicant’s financial situation. Interest will not accrue and payments are deferred until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
Applications can be submitted online at sba.gov/disaster. Additional information is available through SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Telecommunications relay services are accessible by dialing 7-1-1 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Completed applications must be submitted by March 16, 2026.
The SBA supports entrepreneurs across the country through its network of field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. More details about their programs can be found at www.sba.gov.