UPDATES

February 4 - The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofits in northeast Louisiana following the January 23-25, 2026 severe winter storm, and this declaration also includes several Mississippi counties such as Adams, Claiborne, Issaquena, Jefferson and Warren, making Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to eligible Mississippi-area enterprises and nonprofits to help cover working capital needs caused by the storm. These loans — up to $2 million with favorable terms — can be used for payroll, fixed debts and other operating costs even if physical damage didn’t occur, offering critical support for local recovery efforts in the wake of the historic ice and snow that also impacted parts of Mississippi.

Link: SBA Offers Relief to Louisiana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by 2026 Severe Winter Storm

January 26 - The Mississippi SBDC Network Lead Center in Oxford is currently experiencing operations with limited access due to the ongoing ice storm affecting North Mississippi. Despite these disruptions, our statewide network remains active and available to assist Mississippi small businesses through virtual and remote support.

Below is a quick checklist to help businesses begin stabilizing operations during and immediately after the storm:

Business Continuity Checklist

• Ensure safety first; avoid travel until roads are cleared.

• Document all damages with photos, videos, and itemized lists.

• Notify your insurance provider as soon as conditions allow.

• Track all expenses related to emergency response, temporary operations, or losses.

• Assess immediate cash-flow needs (payroll, rent, utilities, vendor obligations).

• Contact your Mississippi SBDC counselor for individualized guidance and recovery planning.

Additional federal and state resources, including information from the U.S. Small Business Administration, will be added to this page as they become available. Please check back regularly for updates.

To request counseling, click the button below. Please note that there might be a slight delay in appointments as we work through weather-related disruptions and ensure safe staffing for all centers.