Disaster Relief
Helping local businesses recover, stabilize, and move forward after disasters
When unexpected disasters disrupt local businesses, AAEDC responds quickly with targeted relief programs designed to help companies recover and regain stability. Our disaster relief efforts provide flexible funding, coordinated resources, and hands-on support to help businesses navigate challenges, restore operations, and move forward with confidence.
Working in partnership with local, state, and regional organizations, AAEDC activates responsive programs tailored to each event, ensuring assistance reaches businesses when it is needed most.
Ideal For: Businesses impacted by declared emergencies or disasters.
Loan Amount: Varies by event and funding availability.
Use of Funds: Immediate recovery and operational relief to help stabilize, reopen, and move forward after a disaster or declared state of emergency.
Recent Disaster Relief Efforts
Key Bridge Small Business Direct Grant Program (2025)
Following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, AAEDC partnered with the Baltimore Community Foundation and regional organizations to deliver direct financial assistance to small businesses impacted by revenue loss, increased costs, and operational disruptions. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 helped stabilize businesses, support operational adjustments, and strengthen recovery in affected communities.
Annapolis Flood Recovery (January 2024)
After severe flooding prompted a City of Annapolis State of Emergency declaration, AAEDC activated the VOLT Disaster Recovery Relief Program to support impacted small businesses and nonprofits. Eight grants totaling $323,385 were awarded to help organizations recover from damage and operational interruptions.
Francis Scott Key Bridge Response (March 2024)
In addition to administering relief funding, AAEDC served as the lead agency supporting Anne Arundel County businesses by coordinating with state partners, assessing business impacts, staffing disaster relief centers, and providing timely communications and resources to affected employers and workers.
Our Commitment
When a disaster or declared state of emergency impacts our business community, AAEDC works quickly to evaluate needs and activate relief programs when funding becomes available. If an emergency occurs, please check back here for updates and information on any available grant opportunities and recovery resources designed to support impacted businesses.
