Small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in several Nebraska counties can now apply for low-interest federal disaster loans to help offset economic losses caused by drought conditions that began on May 27. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced this relief measure, which also extends to three counties in Kansas.
The affected Nebraska counties include Franklin, Furnas, Harlan, Kearney, Phelps, and Webster. In Kansas, the declaration covers Norton, Phillips, and Smith counties.
Under this disaster declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits—including faith-based organizations—that have experienced financial losses as a direct result of the drought. However, agricultural producers such as farmers or ranchers are not eligible for these loans unless they operate small aquaculture enterprises.
The EIDLs are intended to provide working capital for needs resulting from the disaster. Businesses or nonprofits do not need to have suffered physical damage to qualify. The loans may be used for fixed debts, payroll expenses, accounts payable and other bills that could not be paid because of the drought.
“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 set at 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits. Terms can extend up to 30 years depending on each applicant’s financial situation. No interest will accrue nor payments required until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
Applicants can apply online through sba.gov/disaster or contact SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for further information about SBA disaster assistance options.
Completed applications must be submitted by March 24, 2026.
The U.S. Small Business Administration serves as a key resource supporting entrepreneurs across America through its field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations; more details about their services are available at www.sba.gov.