Last updated: 1/13/2025 at 7AM PST

Our hearts are with the individuals and communities affected by the recent fires in Los Angeles County. In challenging times like these, access to reliable information and resources is more important than ever. This blog post is here to serve as a guide for small business owners navigating the aftermath of this crisis.

We will update this list as more resources become available.

Grants and Funds

  • Open Air Worker Emergency Fund – During the ongoing wildfire emergency in Los Angeles County, Inclusive Action has launched a new emergency fund to help outdoor workers – street vendors, landscapers, and recyclers – impacted by the fires. Through this fund, impacted outdoor workers can apply for one-time cash assistance support of $500. Recipients will receive cash payments on a first-come, first-served basis, and as funding allows. Learn more here.
  • LiftFund is launching a $250,000 grant program to help restore and rebuild operations. Eligible business owners can get immediate assistance by applying for up to a $5,000 grant. Fill out this form and they will reach out to you with more information.

Small Business Resources: 

  • Put a recovery plan together – You can work directly with an LA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisor to access your situation and put a recovery plan together. This webpage has multiple resources for small businesses on where to start:
  • The Valley Economic Alliance is committed to supporting businesses, nonprofits, and residents of the San Fernando Valley and greater Los Angeles region during times of disaster. As our community faces the devastating impacts of the Los Angeles wildfires, it is here to provide critical resources, advocacy, and connections to help you recover and rebuild.
  • For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Disaster loans of up to $500,000 are available to eligible homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations, and businesses of all sizes. The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications as soon as possible. Applications will be prioritized in the order received. Apply and learn more information here. 
  • The U.S. Small Business Administration will open Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Jan. 14, to assist small businesses, private nonprofit organizations and residents who sustained economic losses and physical damages from the recent wildfires. The center will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Pasadena City College Community Education Center Multi-Purpose Room, 3035 E. Foothill Blvd. Another center will open Tuesday in Ventura County at 4001 Mission Oaks Blvd., Suite A1 in Camarillo. Source
  • Free Legal Assistance for Small Business Owners – through Bet Tzedek Justice for All, Public Counsel, and the Los Angeles Department of Insurance & Workforce Development. Assistance includes support with commercial leases, landlord communication, insurance policy reviews, and navigating insurance claims. Contact information is: LAlegalhelp.org and 1-866-375-9511. More information can be found on the flyer in English and Spanish.
  • The Internal Revenue Service announced today tax relief for individuals and businesses in southern California affected by wildfires and straight-line winds that began on Jan. 7, 2025. These taxpayers now have until Oct. 15, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. The IRS is offering relief to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Currently, individuals and households that reside or have a business in Los Angeles County qualify for tax relief. The current list of eligible localities is always available on the Tax relief in disaster situations page on IRS.gov.

General Resources 

  • Mutual Aid LA Network has put together an extensive list of resources for fire evacuees and folks who want to help
  • 211 LA County – Homeless individuals in need of emergency shelter can call 211 for hotel vouchers.
  • LA Metro – Fare-free transit on Metro buses and trains for those evacuating or affected.
  • Ready, Set, Go! – Wildfire preparation and evacuation tips to keep you and your family safe.