SBA drought relief loans for Pennsylvania

By Blake Jackson

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to assist small businesses and organizations suffering economic losses due to the drought that began on September 24th in Pennsylvania.

Eligible businesses in Greene County, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas in Pennsylvania and West Virginia are encouraged to apply. These loans are available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses, and most private non-profit organizations.

“Working capital loans from the SBA are essential to eligible small businesses when the Secretary of Agriculture declares a disaster due to farmers’ crop losses,” said Francisco Sánchez, Jr., associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “These loans help sustain rural economies when a disaster occurs.”

Under the program, farm-related and non-farm-related businesses that have experienced financial losses due to the drought can apply for EIDLs. While agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers are not eligible, nurseries can apply for loans to offset drought-related losses.

Loan amounts can reach up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% for non-profits and 4% for small businesses. Additionally, repayment is deferred for the first 12 months following loan disbursement. Loan terms and amounts are determined based on each applicant's financial situation.

These working capital loans can be used to cover fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that could have been paid without the impact of the drought. They are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Interested businesses can find more information and apply online at SBA.gov/disaster. Alternatively, they can call the SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for further assistance. Applications must be submitted by the deadline of June 2nd, 2025.

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