This article explores various funding opportunities and contracting avenues available to experienced builders, contractors, and tradespeople engaged in rebuilding efforts in Western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. It assumes readers possess advanced knowledge of the construction industry and focuses on providing detailed information regarding specific programs, eligibility criteria, and application processes.
I. Financial Assistance Programs for Businesses
Several financial assistance programs are available to help businesses recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene.
A. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans
The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses and homeowners affected by declared disasters. For Hurricane Helene, the SBA offers:
- Business Physical Disaster Loans: These loans provide up to $2,000,000 to repair or replace disaster-damaged property, including real estate, inventory, machinery, and equipment. Businesses of all sizes, as well as private non-profit organizations, are eligible.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): These loans offer up to $2,000,000 in working capital to help businesses and non-profits meet financial obligations they cannot meet due to the disaster.
- Home Disaster Loans: These loans provide up to $500,000 for homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and $100,000 for personal property.
Key Considerations:
- Application Deadlines: The deadline for physical damage loans is November 27, 2024, and for economic injury loans is June 30, 2025.
- Interest Rates: Interest rates vary based on whether the applicant has credit available elsewhere. Rates range from 2.813% to 8.000%.
- Loan Terms: Loan terms can extend up to 30 years, although businesses with credit available elsewhere are limited to a 7-year term.
- Restrictions: Only uninsured or uncompensated losses are eligible. Certain property types, like secondary homes and recreational vehicles, are generally ineligible.
- Mitigation Improvements: Additional funds may be available to cover improvements that protect against future damage, up to 20% of the verified physical damage, with a maximum of $500,000 for home loans.
- Refinancing: Businesses can refinance existing mortgages or liens on real estate and equipment, while homeowners can refinance existing liens or mortgages on their homes if the disaster damage is substantial.
Application Process:
Applications can be submitted online via the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending.sba.gov or other locally announced locations.
B. Other Funding Sources
- WNC Strong: Helene Business Recovery Fund: Provides rapid recovery loans for small businesses affected by Hurricane Helene.
- Carolina Small Business Development Fund: Offers financing for North Carolina businesses affected by disasters.
- North Carolina Department of Commerce Disaster Recovery: Provides a list of current disaster recovery programs and grants, including a running list of needed resources at locations throughout the state.
II. Contracting Opportunities for Rebuilding
Several state and federal agencies offer contracting opportunities for builders, contractors, and tradespeople involved in the Hurricane Helene rebuilding efforts.
A. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
The NCDOT needs vendors to help with debris removal, facility support services, and supplying necessary materials.
Key Opportunities:
- Hurricane Response Letting: The NCDOT has a dedicated page for hurricane-related contracting opportunities, including contact information for Division 11, 12, 13, and 14.
- Cut/Shove Operations: This involves quickly clearing debris and making temporary repairs to roads and infrastructure.
- Infrastructure Stabilization: This focuses on more permanent repairs to damaged infrastructure.
- Permanent Repairs: This encompasses the long-term reconstruction of damaged roads, bridges, and other infrastructure.
- Debris Removal: Contractors are needed to remove debris from public areas and right-of-ways.
Contract Types:
- Local Purchase Order Contracts (POC)
- Fully Operated Equipment Rental Agreements (FORE)
- Disaster Recovery Professional Limited Services Contracts (LSC)
Prequalification:
Contractors must prequalify with the NCDOT to be eligible for contracts. The prequalification process ensures vendors have the necessary experience and qualifications to perform the work.
Resources:
- Prequalification Instructions and Application: https://connect.ncdot.gov/business/Prequal/Pages/default.aspx
- Prequalification Online Application: https://apps.ncdot.gov/Vendor/Prequal/Login.aspx?
- Directory of Firms: https://www.ebs.nc.gov/VendorDirectory/search.html?s=fn&a=new
Additional Information:
- Contact the NCDOT division maintenance engineers listed in the source for specific opportunities.
- The NCDOT is committed to increasing diversity participation in disaster recovery efforts. Certified Disadvantaged, Small, Minority, and Woman-owned Business firms are encouraged to visit the N.C. Interactive Purchasing System (IPS) to access projects in the affected areas.
- The NC HUB Office website provides RFPs and updates: https://ncadmin.nc.gov/businesses/hub.
- Information regarding DBE, SBE, or SPSF certification can be found at: https://connect.ncdot.gov/business/SmallBusiness/Pages/default.aspx.
B. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA is the primary federal agency responsible for disaster response and recovery efforts. They often contract with local businesses for various goods and services.
Key Considerations:
- SAM.gov Registration: Contractors must register with the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to be eligible for federal contracts, including FEMA opportunities. During registration, contractors can opt to join the Disaster Response Registry, which lists companies that provide essential supplies and services during disaster recovery efforts.
- Vendor Profile Form (VPF): Contractors should submit a VPF to FEMA to outline their capabilities, ensuring FEMA can connect them with the appropriate program office.
Resources:
- SAM.gov: https://www.sam.gov
- Disaster Response Registry: https://www.acquisition.gov/content/disaster-response-registry
Additional Information:
- FEMA offers several resources and programs for businesses, including the Industry Liaison Program.
Other Federal Agencies:
- Small Business Administration (SBA): Provides financial assistance to businesses and homeowners affected by disasters.
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE): Participates in public works and infrastructure recovery.
C. North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM)
NCEM coordinates disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across the state.
Key Opportunities:
- Debris removal contracts: https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management/disaster-recovery/public-assistance/debris-management
Resources:
- NCEM Website: https://www.ncdps.gov/ncem
Additional Information:
- NCEM works with the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) and the Business Emergency Operations Center (BEOC) to coordinate disaster response and recovery efforts.
D. Local Government Agencies
Local governments also play a vital role in disaster recovery, offering contracting opportunities for various services.
Key Considerations:
- Policies and procedures vary by locality. Contractors should contact specific agencies to understand requirements and opportunities.
- Local construction industry associations will have information on contracting opportunities.
III. State and Local Contracting: Getting Started
Contractors new to government contracting are advised to start at the state and local levels. Here are some steps to take:
A. Assess and Prepare Your Business:
- Obtain an EIN/TIN: A valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is required to register in state procurement systems.
- Register with the NC Secretary of State: Ensure your business is in good standing. Out-of-state companies must obtain a Certificate of Authority.
- Obtain Necessary Licenses and Insurance: Ensure you have all required licenses, insurance, and bonding.
- Identify UNSPSC Codes: Determine your business’s United Nations Standard Products and Services Codes (UNSPSC).
B. Market Research:
- Research Statewide Solicitations: https://evp.nc.gov/solicitations/
- Research IT Statewide Term Contracts: https://it.nc.gov/services/statewide-it-contracts
C. Register with State Vendor Procurement Systems:
- NC electronic Vendor Portal (eVP): Register to receive purchase orders, bid invitations, and HUB certification opportunities.
- NC Business Invitation Delivery System (NC BIDS): This is North Carolina’s electronic bidding system.
D. Marketing Strategies:
- Attend Networking and Sourcing Events: Connect with government agencies and prime contractors.
- Register with Local Government Systems: https://www.sog.unc.edu/resources/microsites/knapp-library/cities-north-carolina
E. Additional Resources:
- NC Division of Purchase and Contract: This agency governs procurement for state agencies and provides training resources, regulations, and other information.
IV. Additional Considerations for Rebuilding Efforts
Contractors should be aware of several additional considerations:
- Increased Demand and Material Shortages: The demand for construction services and materials will likely be high after a disaster like Hurricane Helene, potentially leading to price increases and delays. Plan accordingly.
- Local Building Codes and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with any changes or updates to building codes and regulations following the hurricane.
- Unlicensed Contractors: Be aware of unlicensed contractors attempting to take advantage of the situation. Report any suspected illegal activity to the authorities.
- Ethical Standards: Maintain high ethical standards, as the NCLBGC can impose disciplinary actions for misconduct.
Conclusion:
Rebuilding efforts in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene present numerous opportunities for experienced builders, contractors, and tradespeople. By understanding the available funding programs, contracting avenues, and regulatory requirements, construction professionals can play a vital role in restoring communities and building a more resilient future.
This article is intended to be a starting point for research and does not cover every aspect of disaster recovery contracting. Consult with relevant agencies and organizations for the most up-to-date information and guidance.