Two major challenges small business owners face after disasters are sales losses and a diminished customer base.  In a survey of 7,500 small and medium-sized businesses by the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), 62 percent said losing profits and clients was their biggest post-disaster challenge.

Whether it’s a fire, flood or tornado, small businesses face an uphill trek when it comes to rebuilding in the aftermath of a disaster.  That’s why it’s important to have a recovery plan in place.

Assessing your company’s risks is one of the first steps in creating an effective business continuity plan.  Join Agility Recovery and the U.S. Small Business Administration on Tuesday, July 8, for an online discussion on how to protect your business before a disaster strikes.

SBA has partnered with Agility to offer business continuity strategies at its “PrepareMyBusiness” website. Visit www.preparemybusiness.org to download disaster planning tip sheets and to view archived webinars.

The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.

WHAT:          “The Top 5 Risks to Businesses in America”

A presentation followed by a question and answer session

WHEN: Tuesday, July 8, 2014 — 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT

HOW: Space is limited. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/923337112