Last updated: 1/24/2025 at 4PM PST

Our hearts are with the individuals and communities affected by the recent fires in Southern California. 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

  • LA Region Small Business Relief Fund -LA County and partners have launched an LA Region Small Business Relief Fund for small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the 2025 wind and wildfire disaster. The program will provide grants up to $25,000 for eligible applicants to access relief, start to recover, and rebuild their business in LA County and will be administered by Community-Based Organizations with the Department of Economic Opportunity. Learn more here.
  • The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce announced the creation of a relief fund to support and rebuild small businesses affected by the wildfires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles for the past week. The Chamber will provide grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 as a direct support along with disaster recovery webinars and business advising support to guide through the rebuilding phase. Application opens Feb. 3. Register here. 
  • 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: 

  • The LA County Relief: Funding & Resource Portal hosts a range of funds dedicated to supporting first responders, offering housing assistance, providing relief for small businesses and workers, and removing barriers for students and communities.
  • 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.
  • GO-Biz (The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development) has a up-to-date list of essential resources and support for businesses and workers impacted by the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. From financial assistance and recovery programs to workforce support, these tools are designed to help you navigate the challenges and rebuild effectively. This one-sheet includes some of helpful resources for small businesses.

General Resources 

  • LA County Relief: Funding & Resource Portal – The recent wildfires have devastated our communities, displacing many residents and causing unimaginable losses. This portal serves as a one-stop resource to connect with trusted organizations that are providing crucial relief and support to those affected. Below are funds focused on supporting first responders, offering housing assistance, providing relief for small businesses and workers, and removing barriers for students and communities.
  • 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.