Gov. Evers Announces Support for Small Businesses Impacted by Lack of Snow

MADISON, WI (WSAU) — Governor Tony Evers has announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will make federal disaster loans available to small businesses suffering financial losses due to a lack of snow this winter.

Evers made the announcement on Tuesday alongside a statement from US Senator Tammy Baldwin. She called winter recreation activities a “huge economic driver, particularly in the Northern part of the state.”

“The lack of snow we’ve experienced so far this winter has had serious economic impacts on folks and businesses, especially in our Northern counties, who rely on snow and winter weather to attract customers and be successful,” said Gov. Evers in a press release. “In partnership with Sen. Baldwin, my administration has been working with the federal Small Business Administration to ensure businesses in impacted counties are eligible for relief, and I’m glad to announce that our efforts have been successful. I encourage all eligible businesses to apply for these loans as soon as possible, and in the meantime, I encourage Wisconsinites to plan a trip, visit local businesses, and find other exciting ways to enjoy winter in Wisconsin in our beautiful Northern and Central communities.”

Businesses can borrow up to $2 million for up to 30 years to cover their actual losses for this winter with the first year being interest-free. Any balance remaining for the second year and beyond is 4%.

Eligible businesses could include restaurants, taverns, hotels, and winter resorts that rely on winter recreation tourism dollars. Businesses may submit applications and find additional disaster assistance information at https://lending.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance.

The National Weather Service reports that snowfall across Wisconsin is 20-30 inches below normal for this winter.

Editors Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the terms of the loans were for two years. WSAU News regrets the error.