Governor Moore Announces Approval of SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans for Anne Arundel County Businesses Affected by Empire Towers Structural Emergency
Updated:
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore announced today that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved his request for a Small Business Administrative Declaration to provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations affected by the Empire Tower Structural Emergency in Anne Arundel County.
The SBA declaration provides access to low-interest loans to help eligible organizations address financial impacts resulting from the structural emergency that began on July 9, 2026.
“Anne Arundel County's local businesses were profoundly impacted by the structural emergency at Empire Towers,” said Gov. Wes Moore. “This SBA assistance means critical resources are available for eligible businesses as they navigate the economic impacts of this incident, strengthening our local economy and supporting our Maryland communities. In the face of emergency, our administration is committed to ensuring Maryland communities have access to the tools and support they need during times of disruption.”
“Economic impacts from emergencies can extend beyond physical damage and affect the ability of businesses to operate,” said Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland. “The approval of these SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans provides another resource for affected businesses and nonprofit organizations as they work through the challenges created by this unusual and complex situation.”
“The Outreach Center in Glen Burnie is a critical step toward connecting local business owners with key resources,” said Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. “I’m grateful to Governor Moore, the SBA, and our state and local partners for working together and stepping up to help business owners meet their needs.”
The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) has been coordinating with Anne Arundel County officials and state partners to provide support and statewide coordination throughout the incident.
An SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration provides financial assistance to eligible organizations experiencing economic losses caused by a declared disaster or emergency. EIDL assistance can provide:
- Working Capital Support: Loans may be used for ordinary and necessary operating expenses, including payroll, fixed debts, accounts payable, utilities, and other expenses.
- No Physical Damage Required: Eligible organizations do not need to have experienced physical property damage to qualify.
- Favorable Loan Terms: Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $2 million, with low interest rates and repayment terms of up to 30 years.
- Low Interest Rates: Loans are 4% for businesses and 3.625% for nonprofits.
- Deferred Payments: Interest does not accrue, and payments are not required during the first 12 months following the initial loan disbursement.
To help affected businesses access this assistance, the SBA will open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Anne Arundel County on Thursday, September 24, at 9 a.m. SBA representatives will be available to answer questions, provide information about eligibility, and assist businesses with the application process. SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center Information:
Opening Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.Location: Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management7480 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. Glen Burnie, MD 21061Center Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Center Closing Date: Friday, October 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
SBA representatives will be available at the center to assist eligible businesses and nonprofit organizations with applications and answer questions about available assistance.
The Moore-Miller Administration remains fully committed to supporting local business owners and ensuring they have the resources they need.
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