Disaster loans available in Utah through SBA

Businesses throughout Utah can apply for low-interest Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The loans are designed to help businesses meet normal operating expenses that cannot be met due to the effects of a disaster. Drought, insects, damaging wind and heat since Jan. 1 caused many farmers and ranchers to experience reduced incomes that may have had an adverse economic effect on businesses depending on those producers.

Farmers and ranchers are not eligible for the loan program but may be eligible for disaster assistance through other federal agencies. However, nurseries that are victims of drought disasters can apply.

Applications and additional information are available by calling 800-366-6303. The deadline for filing an application is May 16, 2005.