SBA Business Recovery Center Open Now In Exton For Hurricane Ida Help

EXTON, PA — Businesses and private nonprofits who had damage during Hurricane Ida's recent disastrous move through Chester County can apply for federal SBA loans at a center in Exton.

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the opening of a third Business Recovery Center in Pennsylvania in the wake of Hurricane Ida, and the location is at the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC).

The new SBA Business Recovery Center opened Wednesday at CCEDC’s headquarters at 737 Constitution Drive, Exton. It is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The center will help businesses submit disaster loan applications for damages due to the remnants of Hurricane Ida that passed through the region and caused flooding and other damage between Aug. 31 to Sept. 5, 2021.

Ten days ago, President Joe Biden approved Pennsylvania's request for a major disaster declaration to be issued following the impact of the remnants of Hurricane Ida on the region. The move cleared the way for the allocation of significant federal aid and resources to local, county, and state governments to assist in recovery, including SBA loans.

Customer service representatives are available to answer questions about the disaster loan program and to work one-on-one with business owners in completing their applications, a news statement explained.

"At CCEDC, our mission for more than 60 years has been to help sustain and grow local businesses, whether by providing services directly or bringing together the partners and connections needed to get the job done," said Gary Smith, CCEDC President and CEO.

The Chester County Economic Development Council is a private, non-profit economic development organization promoting smart growth in Chester County and the surrounding region for more than 60 years. The CCEDC provides proven financing solutions, cultivates workforce talent, leverages business partnerships, and fosters entrepreneurial collaboration.

"Our relationship with SBA has been strong over many decades. We are glad to open our doors to them and offer anything they need as we all work to bring comfort and support to companies in this time of adversity," Smith added.

The other SBA Business Recovery Centers are in Philadelphia at the Falls of the Schuylkill Library,

3501 Midvale Ave., and in York, Pennsylvania, at 144 Roosevelt Ave. Find more information here.

Businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. Details on loan eligibility and requirements can be found here.

Because of the pandemic, the SBA has established protocols to help protect the health and safety of the public at SBA Business Recovery Centers, a news release said. All visitors are encouraged to wear a face mask.

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