Business recovery center opens

Jun 24, 2008 (The Gazette - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- SBCO | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- The U.S. Small Business Administration will open a longterm disaster recovery center for businesses this morning at Westdale Mall.

The SBA Business Recovery Center will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays beginning today. The facility is located across from Bath and Body Works on the lower level of Westdale.

The staff will include specialists U.S. SBA Disaster Loans, U.S. SBA Government Contract, the Iowa Small Business Development Centers, the Service Corps of Retired Executives, and the Women's Business Center of Cedar Rapids.

SBA representatives will meet individually with business owners to explain how an SBA disaster loan can help finance their recovery, according to Joseph Folsom, SBA's Iowa district director.

In addition, the center will offer help in reconstructing lost business records, and updating or rewriting business plans.

The center has a specialist to help small businesses interested in gaining access to government contracting opportunities.

Businesses of any size and private non-profit organiza tions may apply for low-interest SBA disaster loans of up to $1.5 million to repair or replace real estate, leasehold improvements, machinery, equipment, inventory and other business assets. The loans cover uninsured losses or situations in which insurance does not cover the entire loss.

Disaster victims should contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency first in order to be considered for all forms of disaster assistance.

Additional information about SBA disaster loans is available by calling 1-(800) 6213362.

Contact the writer: (319) 398-8317 or david.dewitte@gazcomm.com

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