05/25/2026
Important disaster recovery assistance is now available for businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners, and renters impacted by the severe storm and tornado that occurred on April 17, 2026.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for eligible applicants in Carroll, Jo Daviess, Ogle, Stephenson, and Winnebago counties in Illinois, as well as Green and Lafayette counties in Wisconsin.
These loans may help cover disaster-related losses that are not fully covered by insurance, including damage to real estate, equipment, inventory, personal property, and other eligible expenses. Economic Injury Disaster Loans may also be available to help small businesses and private nonprofits meet working capital needs caused by the disaster, even if they did not experience physical damage.
A Disaster Loan Outreach Center is open in Stephenson County for those who would like in-person assistance:
American Legion Hall
316 West Main Street
Lena, IL 61048
Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Closing permanently: Tuesday, June 2 at 5 p.m.
Apply online at sba.gov/disaster or call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for more information.
Key deadlines:
Physical property damage applications: July 17, 2026
Economic injury applications: February 18, 2027
NWILED encourages affected businesses, organizations, residents, and community partners to review the available assistance and share this information with anyone who may benefit.
U.S. Small Business Administration
Illinois Emergency Management AgencyAgency and Office of Homeland Security
Jo Daviess County Local News
Visit Carroll County IL
City of Galena, Illinois
Galena Area Chamber of Commerce
Stockton Chamber of Commerce
