The US Small Business Administration, in collaboration with the Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center, has inaugurated an SBA Business Recovery Center in Honolulu. Its primary aim is to extend a comprehensive array of services to small enterprises impacted by the Maui wildfires that ignited on August 8.

The establishment of this center in Honolulu coincides with the recent expansion of the declaration by the Biden Administration, granting wildfire-related disaster assistance accessibility to small businesses across all five counties in Hawaiʻi. It’s important to note that no appointment is required, and all services are provided without charge.

At the SBA Business Recovery Center, dedicated SBA representatives will individually guide business owners through the potential benefits of an SBA disaster loan in aiding their recovery efforts. They will address any inquiries regarding the SBA’s disaster loan program, elucidate the application process, and assist business owners in completing their electronic loan applications.

Furthermore, homeowners and renters affected by the Maui wildfires and facing displacement can also avail themselves of the center’s resources. They can meet with SBA customer service representatives to initiate their applications for SBA disaster loan assistance.

Interim State Director Joseph Burns emphasized that the Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center business advisors are equipped to provide extensive business support to clients on a broad spectrum of issues. These services are specifically tailored to aid small business owners in reestablishing their operations, mitigating the impacts of the disaster, and planning for their future.

Interested applicants have the option to apply online, access supplementary disaster assistance details, and download applications at https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. Additionally, they can reach out to SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for further assistance.