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ATHOL – The State of Idaho is gathering information from non-farm small businesses and non-profit organizations whose operations were disrupted by the Sunset Fire in Bonner County that began Aug. 13. This information will help determine whether impacted entities may be eligible for disaster assistance through low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Bonner County is in close coordination with the Idaho Office of Emergency Management to evaluate the potential for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan Declaration through the Small Business Administration. If approved fol- lowing a disaster declaration request by Gov. Brad Little, the program would make low-interest loans available to qualifying small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private non-profit organizations. These loans are intended to help cover ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met due to the disruption caused by the fire.
To request the declaration, the State of Idaho will need five or more qualifying EIDL worksheets from small businesses impacted by the fire. Businesses that have experienced economic losses, whether actual or estimated due to the ongoing fire, are encouraged to submit a worksheet, even if they do not intend to apply for a loan. This information is critical to demonstrate the extent of the economic impact and determine eligibility for federal assistance.
The worksheet may be found on IOEM’s website at ioem.idaho.gov/ SBA. Forms can be downloaded and sent by email to [email protected]. gov, by fax to 208-422-3044, or mailed directly to: ATTN: Jarod Dick 4040 Guard St., Bldg. 600 Boise, ID 83705 Please note the EIDL worksheet is not a loan application; it is intended for businesses to report losses so a declaration request may be considered.
Farms and ranches are not eligible for the SBA program.
