The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available for Texas businesses, nonprofits, and residents affected by the Welder Complex Fire, which occurred from March 4-9. This financial assistance comes following a disaster declaration in response to a request from Governor Greg Abbott on March 18.
Who is Eligible?
The disaster relief program covers businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters in the affected counties of Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Live Oak, Nueces, Refugio, and San Patricio. Eligible applicants include:

• Businesses and nonprofits: Up to $2 million in loans to repair or replace real estate, machinery, equipment, inventory, and other business assets.
• Homeowners: Up to $500,000 to repair or replace their primary residence.
• Renters and homeowners: Up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property such as furniture, clothing, and vehicles.
• Mitigation efforts: Loan increases of up to 20% of verified physical damages for improvements that help protect against future disasters.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations that have suffered financial losses due to the disaster may apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). These loans provide working capital to cover fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other expenses impacted by the fire, even if the business did not suffer physical damage.
Loan Terms & Application Process
Interest rates for disaster loans are:

• 4% for businesses
• 3.625% for nonprofits
• 2.75% for homeowners and renters Loan repayment terms can extend up to 30 years, with no interest accrual or payments required for the first 12 months.

How to Apply
Starting Friday, March 21, SBA customer service representatives will be available at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in San Patricio County to assist with applications and answer questions.
DLOC Location & Hours
San Patricio County Fairgrounds – Civic Center Bldg. 1, Meeting Room
219 W. Fifth St., Sinton, TX 78387

• Opens: Friday, March 21, at 11 a.m.
• Operating Hours: Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Temporary Closure: April 7-9
• Reopens: Thursday, April 10
• Closes Permanently: Wednesday, April 16, at 5 p.m.

For those unable to visit in person, applications can be submitted online at sba.gov/disaster. Additional assistance is available through SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can use the 7-1-1 relay service.
Important Deadlines

• Physical damage applications: May 19, 2025
• Economic injury applications: December 19, 2025

The United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce encourages all affected members to take advantage of these resources to recover and rebuild. Stay informed, stay resilient, and reach out for support as needed!