Texas Gulf Coast businesses face hurricane season every year from June through November. Government programs at the federal, state, and local level may help businesses prepare for storms, recover from damage, and build long-term resilience. Understanding these programs before a hurricane strikes is critical, as many require pre-disaster registration or planning.
Pre-Season Preparation Programs
SBA Disaster Loan Pre-Registration
The SBA activates Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) and Physical Disaster Loans after federally declared disasters. Businesses should register on the SBA website and maintain current financial records before hurricane season. Having this information ready can shorten the application timeline after a disaster.
FEMA Hazard Mitigation
FEMA provides Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding to state and local governments for projects that reduce disaster risk. Businesses in flood-prone areas should contact their local floodplain administrator about mitigation projects including flood-proofing, elevation, and drainage improvements.
Business Continuity Planning
SBDCs across Texas provide free business continuity planning assistance. Developing a disaster plan, maintaining backup records, and securing adequate insurance coverage are essential steps before hurricane season.
Post-Disaster Recovery Programs
SBA Disaster Loans
After a presidential disaster declaration, the SBA offers:
- Physical Disaster Loans: Up to $2 million for repairing or replacing damaged property, equipment, and inventory.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Working capital loans for businesses that lose revenue due to disaster impacts, even without physical damage.
- Terms: Up to 30 years at below-market interest rates.
FEMA Public Assistance
While primarily for government entities and nonprofits, FEMA Public Assistance supports infrastructure repair that indirectly benefits businesses through restored roads, utilities, and public facilities.
HUD CDBG-DR
After major disasters, Congress may appropriate Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding. These funds often include business recovery programs administered through the Texas General Land Office or local governments.
Insurance and Risk Programs
National Flood Insurance Program
Businesses in flood-prone areas should maintain flood insurance through the NFIP. Standard commercial property insurance typically excludes flood damage. NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period, so purchasing coverage during hurricane season may not provide immediate protection.
Texas Windstorm Insurance Association
TWIA provides wind and hail insurance for coastal Texas properties that cannot obtain coverage in the private market. Businesses in the 14 first-tier coastal counties and parts of Harris County may need TWIA coverage for wind damage.
State and Local Programs
Texas Division of Emergency Management
TDEM coordinates state disaster response and recovery programs. After declarations, TDEM may activate state-funded business recovery programs in addition to federal assistance.
Local Emergency Management
County and city emergency management offices can provide information about local disaster preparedness requirements, evacuation plans, and post-disaster recovery resources.
Hurricane Season Checklist for Businesses
- Review insurance: Verify coverage for wind, flood, and business interruption.
- Register with SBA: Create an account at sba.gov before you need it.
- Back up records: Store financial records, contracts, and insurance policies in the cloud.
- Develop a continuity plan: Contact your local SBDC for free planning assistance.
- Identify suppliers: Establish relationships with backup vendors in case primary suppliers are impacted.
- Protect physical assets: Install storm shutters, secure equipment, and elevate vulnerable items.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Texas businesses should prepare for hurricane season by understanding available programs before storms arrive. Our screening report identifies programs your business may qualify for year-round. Start your free screening →