4 Easy Ways to Support Small Businesses During the COVID-19 Pandemic (Even if You’re Struggling Financially)
I’ve been racking my brain for a way to respond to the Coronavirus rocking our world as we know it because, as a writer, I feel a deep need to not only document events, but also to express my feelings the only way I know how—through words. And I wanted to respond in a way that was conscious of every financial situation because, while I am fortunate enough to still have a steady income, I have many friends and loved ones who have lost their jobs in the midst of this outbreak. I decided, as a small business owner whose sole mission is to help, empower, and uplift other small business owners, that I had to write from a space I know well.
So no matter your current financial status, here are four ways to support small businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak. If you are fortunate enough to have cash in your pockets, please consider supporting your local businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs by putting money in their wallets.
Spread the word
Do you have a social media profile, a cell phone, a computer, an AIM log-in? Consider posting about your favorite local businesses on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. If you have 100 followers or if you have 100,000 followers, every post counts.
Or—if you have friends you know who might like to purchase someone’s artwork or hire a freelancer for their services, send them a text with a link to that person’s social account or website. You don’t even have to physically see anyone to get the word out and encourage others to support local.
Like, comment, and share
I cannot stress enough how important this is. The Zuckerbergs of the world (and mostly just Zuckerberg) have put algorithms in place that make it difficult for entrepreneurs to gain visibility on (mainly) the Instagram feed. However, the more you like, comment on, and share posts, the better visibility that account will have. So take a few minutes each day to scroll through your various feeds and timelines and click that ‘like’ button.
Donate what you can
If you’re fortunate enough to have some extra cash right now but you’re on a tight budget, consider donating $5 or $10—or whatever you can spare—to a business owner of your choice. A little money in the bank is better than none, and if you’re one of many people sending $5, it will add up. So send a DM and ask for that Venmo information!
Order online
If you’ve got more than a few dollars to spare, reach out to your local businesses and ask if they’re taking online orders. Buy prints from your artist friends. Buy food from your local farmer. Buy clothes from your local boutique. Buy books from your local independent bookstore. Sure, Amazon is convenient, but Jeff Bezos is not suffering for coin right now. In fact with the influx in toilet paper orders, I’m sure he’s doing just fine.
So get out there and buy/support/love local already! Your friends will thank you. Here are a few businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs that I love that you can support:
