TIFTON — In response to the recent disasters affecting communities across South Georgia, ACE | Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs has announced the launch of its Emergency Disaster Relief Loan Program. This initiative aims to provide vital financial support to local businesses impacted by recent events, enabling them to recover and thrive.

Eligible businesses can apply for loans of up to $50,000 to help cover immediate expenses, including repairs, inventory restocking, and operational costs. The program is designed to assist businesses in ACE’s 32-county service area in South Georgia that have faced economic hardships due to Hurricane Helene.

“We recognize the significant challenges faced by businesses in our communities following this disaster,” said Tommie Beth Willis, ACE South Georgia regional director. “This loan program is an important step toward helping them recover, rebuild, and continue to serve our region.”

Key details of the program

Loan Amount: Up to $50,000 – 600 minimum personal credit score.

Terms: 6% Interest Rate – 6 months interest payment only followed by 36 months principal + interest payments.

Application Fee: Waived.

Down Payments: None required.

Application Process: Simple and streamlined application procedures to expedite access to funds. Website: aceloans.org.

Collateral: Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filing on business assets.

Eligibility: Open to small businesses in ACE’s 32 county service area in South Georgia.

Application Deadline: Dec. 11, 2024.

Use of Funds: Can be used for repairs, inventory, and other operational needs.

Interested business owners are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The application process is straightforward, and assistance is available for those who may need help completing their applications.

ACE’s South Georgia 32-county service area includes: Atkinson, Bacon, Baker, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Calhoun, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Echols, Grady, Irwin, Lanier, Lee, Lowndes, Miller, Mitchell, Pierce, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Turner, Ware and Worth counties.

For more information about the ACE Emergency Disaster Relief Loan Program and to access the application, please visit aceloans.org or contact one of ACE’s team members: Chanel Randolph 229-256-0293; William Hurt 229-252-3737; Ana Maag 229-374-9665; or Tommie Beth Willis 229-270-1620.