Kaptur Urges Northwest Ohio Small Businesses and Nonprofits to Apply for SBA Drought Relief Loans Deadline

June 10, 2025

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) is urging small businesses and private nonprofit organizations across Northwest Ohio to act swiftly as the July 7 deadline approaches to apply for US Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) related to last fall’s drought conditions across Northwest Ohio, and the Buckeye State.

Businesses in Erie, Hancock, Henry, Lucas, Ottawa, Putnam, Sandusky, Seneca, and Wood counties have until July 7, 2025, to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans to help offset economic losses caused by the prolonged drought conditions that began on September 10, 2024.

“These loans have proven a lifeline for small businesses and nonprofits in our region feeling the financial aftershocks of last year’s protracted drought,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Northwest Ohio’s resilience depends on making sure local enterprises and community institutions have the resources they need to weather economic hardship. I strongly encourage all eligible organizations to apply for this federal farm assistance before the deadline passes.”

The SBA’s EIDL program provides working capital to help businesses meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not occurred. Loan funds can be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills. Importantly, businesses do not need to have sustained physical damage to be eligible for this support.

While agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers are generally not eligible, small aquaculture businesses may qualify for assistance. Visit the SBA website for full details and application materials.

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Issues: Trade Jobs and the Economy