The federal government is offering financial assistance to businesses affected by wildfires burning on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has authorized low-interest economic disaster loans for eligible small businesses and private nonprofits that experienced economic losses tied to the Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires.
Gov. Katie Hobbs talked about the need to help those businesses rebuild while visiting the Dragon Bravo fire site last month.
“Obviously, this is a huge draw for tourism,” she said. “The South Rim gets more visitors but this is really important. The businesses that are here, the concessioners, are contractors so that’s their business, their livelihood.”
Hobbs praised the Small Business Administration’s decision to issue a Declaration of Economic Injury Disaster for Arizona, which made the loans available to businesses in the affected areas.
“Arizonans who work hard and provide jobs to our neighbors should know that we have their back,” Hobbs said in a statement. “That’s why we are unlocking critical financial support to help our businesses recover and keep Arizona workers and families strong. I’m grateful to the U.S. Small Business Administration for their support.”
The loan program is open to eligible businesses in Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo and Yavapai counties. Business located on Navajo, Hopi, Havasupai, Hualapai and San Juan Southern Paiute tribal land can also apply.
The deadline to file an economic injury application is May 18, 2026, according to the SBA.
