Federal low-interest loans available to nonprofits hit by Hurricane Lowell
After a federal disaster declaration, the U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest loans available to qualifying private nonprofit and faith-based groups in Kauai and Maui counties that Hurricane Lowell affected. The loans can reach $2 million, carry rates as low as 3.625 percent, and offer terms up to 30 years, with no interest or payments during the first 12 months after disbursement. Applications for physical damage are due Dec. 7, while economic injury applications are due July 7, 2027.
The federal declaration, approved Oct. 7 after the governor’s Sept. 9 request, opened Public Assistance for Kaua‘i and Maui counties. That aid covers eligible government entities and some nonprofits for cleanup and repairs to roads, bridges, buildings, and utilities; it does not pay households directly.
SBA loans can fund physical repairs, working capital, and mitigation upgrades of as much as 20% above verified losses. Nonprofits that do not deliver critical services must first seek SBA help before applying for FEMA permanent-repair grants. Physical-damage applications close Dec. 7; economic-injury applications close July 7, 2027.
The loans may help nonprofits and faith-based groups in Kauai and Maui counties restore facilities and maintain services after Hurricane Lowell. If they access funds, community centers, senior programs, food providers, and similar groups could avoid deeper cutbacks, while staff and residents who rely on them may see steadier support. Deadlines and application requirements could determine whether smaller organizations benefit, so the program’s reach may depend on groups’ capacity to apply and document losses.