CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofit organizations across Illinois that suffered economic losses from drought conditions beginning October 7, 2025.

The federal declaration covers 23 counties, including Champaign, Christian, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, Ford, Logan, Macon, McLean, Piatt, Vermilion and Woodford. The prolonged dry spell led to widespread financial strain for businesses dependent on seasonal activity and local consumers.

Under the declaration, eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture enterprises and private nonprofits can apply for the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans. The loans may be used for working-capital needs such as payroll, fixed debts, rent, accounts payable and other expenses that could not be met because of the drought. The program does not provide loans to traditional agricultural producers, farmers or ranchers.

SBA officials said the assistance is intended to stabilize communities experiencing cascading economic effects from the drought. Chris Stallings, associate administrator for the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience, said the loans provide “critical financial assistance to help communities recover” from the ongoing losses.

Application information and deadlines will be available through the SBA’s disaster assistance website and local SBA offices.