SBA to make low-interest disaster loans to Ferguson businesses

(From Gov. Jay Nixon)

In response to a request from Gov. Jay Nixon, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today it will make low-interest disaster loans available to business owners and non-profit organizations in north St. Louis County that suffered substantial economic injury as a result of the events in Ferguson.

“This SBA declaration means that another important tool is available – in this case, low-interest loans for businesses and non-profits – for rebuilding and strengthening the businesses that are essential to the vitality of the Ferguson area,” Gov. Nixon said. “This is part of our ongoing and long-term commitment to helping the people of Ferguson and surrounding communities move forward.”

As requested by the Governor, the SBA designated St. Louis County as the primary county for the declaration, and St. Charles, Franklin and Jefferson counties and the independent City of St. Louis as contiguous counties that are also eligible for the same SBA assistance.

Last week, Gov. Nixon announced that the state of Missouri would commit small business lending resources to support efforts of the Small Business Relief Program, a public-private partnership comprising the State of Missouri, the St. Louis Regional Chamber, the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership and local lending institutions. The Governor designated Treasurer Clint Zweifel to oversee Missouri’s commitment to the program, which will provide up to $1 million in support to businesses impacted by recent events. For more information about the Small Business Relief Program, visitwww.stlregionalchamber.com/smallbusinessrelief. Questions may be directed to (314) 206-3235 orRecoverySTL@stlregionalchamber.com

SBA representatives will be on hand at a Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Ferguson to issue loan applications, answer questions and explain the application process beginning Thursday, Sept. 4 through Wednesday, Sept.17 at the following location: