SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Small Businesses Impacted by Lake Fire


The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to small businesses in California that were economically impacted by the Lake Fire, which occurred from July 5 to August 4.

This announcement was made following a request from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services on behalf of Governor Gavin Newsom. The disaster declaration includes the counties of Kern, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.

The SBA will offer loans up to $2 million for businesses to meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. These loans can be used to cover essential expenses such as fixed debts, payroll, and accounts payable.

Virtual Business Recovery Center

SBA customer service representatives will be available at the Virtual Business Recovery Center to assist small businesses in understanding the application process for disaster loans. No appointment is necessary.

  • Monday – Friday
    8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
    Email: FOCWAssistance@sba.gov
    Phone: (916) 735-1501
    Opens Monday, Sept. 9

Interest rates are set at 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for nonprofit organizations, with terms up to 30 years. Interest will not begin to accrue until 12 months from the first loan disbursement. Repayment also begins after 12 months.

Small businesses can apply online at SBA.gov/disaster and receive further information by contacting SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

The deadline to apply for economic injury loans is June 6, 2025.



Joshua Sophy Joshua Sophy is the Editor for Small Business Trends and has been a member of the team for 16 years. A professional journalist with 20 years of experience in traditional media and online media, he attended Waynesburg University and is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. He has held roles of reporter, editor and publisher, having founded his own local newspaper, the Pottsville Free Press.