The U.S. Small Business Administration is giving federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations in Florida that have been financially impacted by the drought.
The loan can pay up to $2 million to cover financial obligations such as fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that cannot be paid due to the economic impact of the drought.
Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits, with repayment terms for up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan.
The SBA will determine loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s individual financial condition.
These loans are mostly for Glades, Hendry, Martin, and Palm Beach, and the adjacent counties of Broward, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Highlands, Lee, Okeechobee, and St. Lucie counties.
To apply, visit the SBA online at sba.gov/disaster .
For more information, you can also contact the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
The deadline to submit applications is Dec. 8, 2025.
DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more .