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 not start, until 12 months after the first loan disbursement. Loan amounts, eligibility, and repayment terms are determined by the SBA based on each applicant’s financial circumstances.
To apply or talk to an advisor, visit sba.gov/disaster or contact the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
The deadline to apply is Friday, July 23, 2027. Go here for the application. There is no cost to apply, and applicants are not obligated to accept a loan if approved.
What You Need To Apply
In preparation for your application, please ensure you have the following documents ready and available:
- Government ID and Business EIN
- Recent Federal Income Tax Return
- Contact Information: For you and all additional applicants, as applicable
- Financial Information: Income and monthly expenses
- Insurance Information: Details of existing coverage and claims, if available
In-Person SBA assistance will be available through Tuesday, November 10, 2026
The SBA has established a temporary Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Leadville, where representatives are available to answer questions and assist business owners with EIDL applications.
- Location: Lake County Public Library (Baby Doe Room), 1115 Harrison Ave., Leadville, CO 80641
- Hours: Monday & Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Closing Date: Closes at close of business on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
Business owners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to speak directly with SBA representatives before the temporary center closes.
Beyond disaster assistance, Colorado Small Business Development Center services are available year-round to support businesses at every stage, including financial planning, access to capital, marketing, operational improvements, and long-term business resilience.
