The U.S. Small Business Administration guaranteed 656 loans in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during fiscal year 2011, a 57 percent increase over loans approved during the previous year. The results obtained are due in part to incentives implemented under the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 and to a renewed commitment from SBA lenders.
With just a week to go before the Oct. 26 deadline to submit disaster loan applications, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced Wednesday that so far it has approved $2 million in assistance for damages sustained by local businesses and residents in the wake of Hurricane Irene earlier this year.
Right now, many communities are still feeling the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, including major floods in Puerto Rico. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of staying safe and listening to public officials. Flooding is still widespread and dangerous power lines are still down, so be sure to steer clear.