The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in several counties affected by drought beginning July 15. The assistance applies to the Oregon counties of Baker, Umatilla, Union, and Wallowa, as well as Adams, Idaho, and Nez Perce counties in Idaho, and Asotin, Columbia, and Garfield counties in Washington.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program offers financial relief to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits—including faith-based organizations—that have suffered economic losses due to the drought. However, agricultural producers such as farmers or ranchers are not eligible for these loans unless they operate small aquaculture enterprises.
Eligible applicants can use EIDL funds for working capital needs resulting from the disaster. These funds may be used to cover fixed debts, payroll expenses, accounts payable, and other bills that could not be paid because of the drought’s impact. Businesses do not need to have suffered physical damage to qualify for this support.
“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.”
Loan amounts can reach up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits. Terms can extend up to 30 years depending on each applicant’s financial situation. Interest will not accrue nor will payments be required until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
Applications can be submitted online at https://www.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 individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
The deadline for submitting completed loan applications is March 24, 2026.
The SBA continues its role in supporting American entrepreneurs by providing resources necessary for business recovery following declared disasters through its network of field offices and partnerships with public and private entities.