Natural disasters of all kinds can break up communities and leave small business owners feeling overwhelmed by the task of rebuilding. Damaged property, lost inventory and pauses in operations can have a huge impact on a small business’ bottom line.  

Fortunately, you don’t have to face recovery alone. A range of resources and support systems exist, designed specifically to help small businesses recover. If your business has been affected by a disaster, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Below are some of the top resources available to small businesses after natural disasters. 

1. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance 

The U.S. Small Business Administration is one the first lines of defense for small businesses hit by disaster — and for good reason. Its disaster assistance program offers low-interest loans to cover physical damage as well as any general economic injury. These loans can be used for business repairs, replacing machinery, equipment and vehicles, and restocking inventory. 

In addition to disaster-specific relief, the SBA has several other programs that could be useful to a business in the wake of a disaster. One to consider is a working capital loan, which helps cover daily operating expenses like rent, payroll and even utilities.  

To get started, visit the SBA’s disaster loan assistance portal or call their hotline directly at (800) 659-2955. You can also visit one of the SBA’s Recovery Centers in person, if there’s one near you. 

2. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 

While FEMA’s programs are primarily aimed at individuals and homeowners affected by disaster, they can also benefit small business owners who either work out of their homes or have suffered serious personal losses. FEMA offers temporary housing, grants for property repair and aid for essentials that may not be covered by insurance.  

FEMA won’t directly give grants for business losses, but the organization is primed to help people return to normalcy as soon as possible.  

Business owners in federally declared disaster areas can register on FEMA’s website or by calling at (800) 621-3362 to check their eligibility. 

3. Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) 

Local Small Business Development Centers are a great resource for small business owners facing crisis. They offer free, personalized workshops, counseling and recovery planning services. SBDC advisors can help with SBA loan applications, making insurance claims and financial strategies tailored to your situation.  

Because SBDCs are community-based, they are one of the best places to find firsthand knowledge of regional challenges and opportunities. Find your local SBDC office through their lookup tool. 

4. State and Local Economic Development Agencies 

Many states and cities have their own disaster recovery programs that may give more targeted help than federal programs. These programs are often tailored to the local business environment and, depending on the location, can include emergency grants, tax relief, low-interest loans and even temporary regulatory adjustments to speed up recovery.  

Some states and cities even offer technical assistance to help businesses relaunch after an internet outage. To learn what’s available in your area, contact your state’s department of economic development. Check this state-by-state directory to find yours. On the local level, reach out to your area’s chamber of commerce to see what options are available for your city or town. 

5. Nonprofit and Private Sector Relief Programs 

In the moments after disasters, nonprofit and private companies often step in to support recovery efforts. The American Red Cross frequently distributes emergency supplies and coordinates recovery resources for affected communities, while the United Way often creates targeted relief funds for business owners and employees affected by disasters.  

On the private side, platforms like Hello Alice offer emergency grants, online recovery toolkits and peer support networks. Crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe also host specific programs to help small businesses raise funds after tragedies or disasters — especially useful if government assistance is delayed. 

6. Business Interruption Insurance 

If you carry business interruption insurance, it can be a lifeline in the aftermath of a disaster. This style of insurance is meant to help cover lost income and ongoing expenses when a business’s operations are slowed or stopped due to a covered disaster. Some policies can even help pay for temporary relocation costs or help you run your business at a reduced capacity. 

Review your policy carefully and file a claim as soon as possible. Work closely with your insurance agent — or a public adjuster if needed — to make sure you’re receiving the full benefits of your policy. 

7. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Disaster Relief 

The Internal Revenue Service often offers some level of tax relief to businesses in federally declared disaster areas. This may include filing and payment deadline extensions, as well as waivers for penalties related to late filing when businesses can demonstrate that the delay was tied to a disaster.  

Check the IRS website for current relief options, or reach out to your local SBDC, which likely has up-to-date information on local business tax relief. 

8. SCORE Mentors 

SCORE, a nonprofit organization partnered with the SBA, provides education and mentoring to small business owners in need. SCORE’s nationwide network of experienced business mentors often mobilizes after serious disasters to offer guidance on recovery strategies, financial reassessments and even adjusting your business model for your post-disaster future.  

SCORE services are always free, and mentoring is available in-person where possible, or online. Whether you’re looking to rethink your business after a major shakeup or just get some advice from a fellow business owner, SCORE is the comeback resource to remember. 

To connect with a local SCORE mentor, use their lookup tool. 

Building Your Community Back Better 

Recovering from a natural disaster is one of the biggest challenges a small business can face, but no owner has to do it alone. From federal loans to nonprofits and local resources, there is a strong network of helpers ready to make recovery more manageable. The key is to act quickly, stay informed, reach out, and be a mentor when possible. Communities that support each other don’t just rebuild — they build back better.