When disaster hits, SBA’s focus shifts from expansion to recovery. “In the first 72 hours,” Stallings says, “even if it feels like help isn’t coming, help is rallying.”
Local
responders
stabilize
immediate States mobilize resources. Federal teams coordinate support. Behind the scenes, SBA prepares for long- term recovery. threats.
The first decisions are logistical.
“How many recovery centers can we support? Do we need generators? Satellite communications? What is the right number of personnel, so we don’t strain local resources?” Stallings explains. Over-responding can consume hotel space needed for displaced families. Under-responding delays assistance. The balance is critical. Administrator Kelly Loeffler asked Stallings to help bring a field- driven approach to disaster lending. “She asked me to help shift disaster lending from a banker’s perspective to a disaster mindset,” he says. “We focus on the survivor.”
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2026 DISASTERS & RESILIENT CITIES EXPO MIAMI EDITION
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