WASHINGTON COUNTY – The Washington County Office of Emergency Management is sharing information about low-interest federal disaster loans now available through the U.S. Small Business Administration. These loans are designed to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations recover from financial losses caused by the ongoing drought that began March 25.
Businesses in Washington and Franklin counties and nearby areas may be eligible. The Economic Injury Disaster Loans can help cover operating expenses such as rent, payroll, bills, and other costs that couldn’t be paid because of the drought. Businesses do not need to have physical damage to qualify.
Eligible applicants include:
- Small businesses
- Aquaculture enterprises
- Small agricultural cooperatives and nurseries
- Private nonprofit organizations
Please note: traditional farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers are not eligible under this program. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 2, 2026.
To learn more or apply, readers may visit: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance where they can access the following form, U.S. Small Business Administration Fact Sheet – Economic Injury Disaster Loans.
