Rebuilding Communities and Businesses After Disasters Series
Financial resources are essential for recovery. Whether it’s rebuilding homes, reopening businesses, or restoring public infrastructure, securing funding is a top priority. A lack of funding can stall recovery efforts, leaving communities vulnerable.

Sources of Funding
Government Aid: Apply for FEMA and SBA disaster recovery grants and loans. After the California wildfires, many small businesses relied on SBA loans to rebuild.
Private Sector Partnerships: Engage corporations to sponsor rebuilding projects. For example, Walmart partnered with local governments to provide emergency supplies and funds during the 2020 hurricane season.
Crowdfunding and Community Drives: Utilize platforms like GoFundMe to rally community support. Following the 2019 Australia bushfires, crowdfunding campaigns raised millions for affected families and small businesses.
Case Study: Sonoma County Wildfire Recovery
Sonoma County created a Fire Recovery Fund in partnership with local businesses and nonprofits. The fund provided grants to homeowners and small businesses, helping over 1,200 applicants within the first six months of its launch. This initiative not only accelerated rebuilding but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and support.
Impact of Adequate Funding
A study by the SBA found that businesses with access to disaster loans recover 50% faster than those without. Early access to financial resources significantly improves recovery timelines and outcomes.