Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and eligible private nonprofit organizations in Chaffee County that experienced financial losses due to the Willow Fire between Monday, June 28 through Thursday, September 16, 2026 may qualify for federal disaster assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The economic effects of wildfires can extend far beyond the areas directly affected by flames. Businesses throughout the region may have experienced financial losses even if they remained open and their property was never threatened. Potential impacts are reduced tourism and visitor spending and operational and supply chain disruptions,
These low-interest loans can help businesses recover from economic disruptions such as: reduced revenue, canceled reservations, disrupted operations, or other financial impacts related to the Willow Fire. Operating expenses, including payroll, rent, fixed debts, accounts payable, and other bills can be reimbursed using these funds.
Loans offer fixed interest rates as low as 4% for businesses and 3.625% for eligible private nonprofits, with repayment terms of up to 30 years. Interest does not begin accruing, and payments do no...