As Kankakee County works through storm recovery, The Economic Alliance is passing forward information for disaster assistance from the Small Business Association. The SBA Disaster Loan Program provides financial assistance to small businesses and private property owners impacted by disasters.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance Program & Policy Guide (Version 5) outlines how the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may assist businesses if a disaster declaration is declared. Currently only a local disaster has been declared, however we want you to be prepared with documentation in the case a federal disaster declaration is issued and you choose to apply for funding.
Please make sure you thoroughly document all disaster-related impacts, including:
- Physical damage to buildings, equipment, or inventory
- Loss of revenue due to business interruption
- Expenses incurred as a result of the disaster (temporary repairs, relocation costs, debris removal, etc.)
- Ongoing fixed expenses, such as utilities, rent, or payroll, that continue despite reduced operations
If you are impacted, begin collecting and maintaining documentation now such as photographs of damage, financial statements, revenue comparisons, invoices, and repair estimates will greatly assist you in accessing available relief programs should you choose to apply.
You can also contact the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or find more information here: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance
Currently only a local disaster has been declared, however we want you to be prepared with documentation in the case a federal disaster declaration is issued and you choose to apply for funding.
