Graphic Courtesy Of Charlotte County Emergency Management
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans to support the recovery of small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations in Florida that have experienced economic losses directly related to the drought beginning on February 11, 2025. Notably, these loans are available for working capital needs even if the business or nonprofit did not suffer any physical damage. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, with the exception of aquaculture enterprises.
This disaster declaration covers the primary counties of Glades, Hendry, Martin, and Palm Beach, and the adjacent counties of Broward, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Highlands, Lee, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie in Florida.
These loans can provide crucial working capital – up to $2 million – to cover essential financial obligations such as fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that cannot be paid due to the economic impact of the disaster. Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits, with repayment terms extending up to 30 years. Importantly, interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA will determine loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s individual financial condition.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is December 8, 2025.
To apply visit the SBA online at sba.gov/disaster.
For More Information: Applicants may also contact the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at [email protected]. For individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.