SBA Reinforces Long-Term Commitment to Maui’s Recovery from 2023 Wildfires

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Francisco Sánchez Jr., Associate Administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), reiterated SBA's unwavering support for the recovery efforts in Maui, following the devastating wildfires of August 2023. "Since the onset of the disaster, SBA has been on the ground, committed to helping homeowners, renters, and businesses rebuild and recover from these unprecedented fires," said Sánchez. "During my recent visit to Maui in September, it was clear that SBA's role remains essential as we work together toward a full and resilient recovery."

SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Centers: Ongoing Support Across Maui

SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Centers continue to provide essential resources and one-on-one support for Maui residents impacted by the fires. SBA representatives are actively available at the Business and Disaster Recovery Centers, Business Resource and Assessment Center, and other locations across Maui. These centers offer direct guidance on SBA's Disaster Loan Assistance program and are open at specified times and locations.

MAUI COUNTY
Business Recovery Center
Hawaii Technology Development Corp.
Maui Research Tech Center (MRTC)
Bldg. A, Ste. 119 (Conf. Rm.)
590 Lipoa Pkwy.
Kihei, HI 96753
Mondays - Fridays, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

MAUI COUNTY
Maui Office of Recovery - West Maui
Lahaina Gateway, Unit 102-B
(near Ace Hardware)
325 Keawe St.
Lahaina, HI 96761
Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Wednesdays
8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

MAUI COUNTY
Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
70 E. Kaahumanu Ave., Unit D-1
Kahului, HI 96732
Mondays - Fridays, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

MAUI COUNTY
Business Resource and Assessment Center
One Main Plaza
2200 Main St., Ste. 100-C
Wailuku, HI 96793
Mondays - Fridays, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Available Resources and Application Support

Individuals affected by the wildfires can apply for assistance in-person at any of the Maui Disaster Loan Assistance Centers, or they may apply online. For questions or additional assistance, SBA's Customer Service Center is available at (800) 659-2955 or by email at [email protected]. Those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability can dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. A list of the current recovery center locations can be found at https://lending.sba.gov/search-disaster/?disaster=HI-00073.

Deadlines and Application Flexibility

The deadline for applications from businesses suffering economic injury is November 9, 2024. SBA will accept late applications if delays were caused by circumstances beyond the applicant's control. For assistance with late applications, visit any of the four SBA Centers in Maui or contact the SBA Customer Service Center.

SBA Disaster Loan Terms and Resilience Funding

SBA's disaster loans offer deferred interest accrual and repayment options to ease the recovery process:

Interest Accrual: Begins 12 months after the initial loan disbursement.

Repayment Start: Begins 18 months after the initial loan disbursement.

SBA also offers additional funding to enhance resilience against future disasters, with loan increases of up to 20 percent to fund protective upgrades. These funds can be used for improvements that reduce potential damage or increase property safety in future disasters. There is no cost to apply, and approved applications are not obligated to accept a loan.

The SBA remains steadfast in its commitment to Maui's long-term recovery, ensuring that its resources are accessible and tailored to support those affected. SBA's disaster response and resilience efforts aim to strengthen communities and promote safety in the face of future threats.

On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.

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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations.