Low interest loans may be available for small businesses and non-profit organizations due to a disaster declaration that covers several counties including Benton and Stearns Counties.

According to Stearns County Emergency Management, this declaration was the outcome of drought conditions that happened from September 1st through November 15th.

Loan amounts are set by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and are based on the financial conditions of each applicant.

The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that were unpaid due to the disaster. The loans are not intended to replace lost sales or profits.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) on SBA’s website. The application may also be downloaded here and mailed to

U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center,
14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.