BUSINESSES CAN APPLY FOR SBA AID THROUGH JUNE 23

ST. LOUIS An Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration was made by the Small Business Administration (SBA) last December for agriculture-dependent businesses in some Illinois counties.

The declaration resulted from agricultural losses to farmers and ranchers due to drought which occurred between June 1 and Aug. 30, 1991, and continuing.

Businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers in some Iowa and Missouri counties declared for assistance. Although the farmers and ranchers are not eligible to apply for these loans, small business concerns and small agricultural cooperatives can apply. In addition, nurseries are eligible to apply with SBA if they have been affected by drought.

According to SBA's District Director, Bob Andrews of St. Louis, businesses located in the following Missouri counties have until June 23 to file an EIDL application: Cape Girardeau, Mississippi, Perry, Scott and Ste. Genevieve.

This program is available only to businesses that are considered small by SBA size standards and do not have credit elsewhere.

Eligible businesses seeking loan information and applications may call 1-800-473-0477.