Colorado Small Businesses Receive Grant Support to Recover From Black Forest Fires

Known as the Black Forest Fire, over 16,000 acres of Black Forest in Colorado were destroyed in June. It is considered one of the most destructive fires in the history of Colorado. Two people died, 500 buildings were destroyed, and thousands of residents were forced to flee their homes and businesses.

Many of the businesses affected were small- and home-based businesses. In response, the Pikes Peak Area Rotary Endowment is offering grants to help these businesses recover and get back on their feet. The foundation was formed out of seven Rotary Clubs and continues to raise funds for grants.

So many small businesses were affected that the foundation plans to offer smaller grants of $500 to enable more businesses to receive the help they need. The Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center is currently taking grant applications until September 1.

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering loans up to $200,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. The loans are offered at low interest rates of 4 percent for businesses.

For more information, visit www.coemergency.com/