Local business owners have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many small businesses forced to close their doors temporarily or permanently. According to a survey by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), 92% of small businesses in the US have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. Local communities can play a crucial role in supporting small businesses during the pandemic by shopping locally, ordering takeout or delivery, buying gift cards, and leaving positive reviews online. Small businesses can seek support through financial assistance programs, pivoting their operations, and partnering with other businesses.

Local Business Owners Rally for Support During COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented challenges, and local business owners have been hit hard. Many small businesses, especially those in the hospitality and service industries, have been forced to close their doors temporarily or permanently. As a result, local business owners are rallying for support from their communities to help them weather this crisis.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Local Business Owners

The pandemic has had a profound impact on local business owners. According to a survey by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), 92% of small businesses in the US have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. Particularly hard-hit industries include restaurants, bars, gyms, and personal-care services.

The economic impact of COVID-19 has been devastating for many small businesses. In addition to lost revenue, small businesses have had to take on additional expenses to comply with health and safety guidelines, such as installing plexiglass barriers and purchasing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

How Local Communities Can Support Small Businesses

Local communities can play a crucial role in supporting small businesses during the pandemic. There are several ways that individuals can help:

• Shop locally: When possible, choose to shop at local businesses rather than chain stores. This helps keep money in the community and supports small businesses.
• Order takeout or delivery: Many restaurants have had to close their dining rooms, but they’re still offering takeout and delivery options. Consider ordering from local restaurants to show your support.
• Buy gift cards: If you’re not comfortable dining out or shopping in person, consider buying gift cards from local businesses to use at a later date.
• Leave positive reviews: Online reviews can make a big difference for small businesses. Take a few minutes to leave a positive review for a local business you love.

Other Forms of Support for Small Businesses

There are also several other ways that businesses can seek support during this crisis:

• Apply for financial assistance: There are several financial assistance programs available to small businesses impacted by the pandemic, including loans and grants.
• Adapt to changing circumstances: Many businesses have had to pivot their operations to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, restaurants have started offering meal kits or grocery items in addition to takeout.
• Partner with other businesses: Local businesses can support each other during the pandemic by partnering on projects or promotions.

FAQs

What can I do to support local businesses during the pandemic?

There are several ways you can support local businesses, such as shopping locally, ordering takeout or delivery, buying gift cards, and leaving positive reviews online.

How have small businesses been impacted by COVID-19?

Small businesses have been severely impacted by the pandemic. Many have had to close temporarily or permanently, and those that are still open have had to take on additional expenses to comply with health and safety guidelines.

What financial assistance programs are available for small businesses?

There are several financial assistance programs available to small businesses impacted by the pandemic, such as loans and grants. Contact your local Small Business Administration office for more information.

How have small businesses adapted to the pandemic?

Many small businesses have had to pivot their operations to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, restaurants have started offering meal kits or grocery items in addition to takeout.

How can local businesses support each other during the pandemic?

Local businesses can support each other during the pandemic by partnering on projects or promotions.