(WXYZ) — As Americans are encouraged to social distance and stay home, businesses — specifically small businesses — are finding themselves in a new world. How do they continue to thrive in the era of COVID-19? What does it take to be successful virtually? A number of local Detroit businesses gathered online today to discuss best-online-practices.
"This is such a scary time for small businesses," said Beatrice Wolerman, the owner of Bea's Detroit, a co-working space in Eastern Market, who hosted the Facebook Live summit Friday.
"We wanted to do something to help, we created this virtual event to bring the Detroit small business community together and give them some real helpful advice to get them through this situation," she explained to the online community at the start of the digital event.
The gathering was two-pronged. First small businesses owners gave advice. Then each businesses — up to 50 — had the opportunity to pitch themselves and make an introduction. A chance to potentially grow their customer base during this uncertain time.
The advice that came in Friday ranged.
"We just think the best people can do to help out small businesses, stay home if you’re sick, but if not support your local small businesses, buying gift cards, posting on social media, just being there for each other and just supporting each other," said Isabelle Elwart the owner of Le Detroit Macaron.
COVID-19 has turned a host of previously “IRL” businesses online. As WXYZ reported this week, for example, Citizen Yoga in Bloomfield began offering online classes for folks who may be feeling stir crazy at home.
"The thought of not having people feel connected to each other and sort of stranded in their houses, that’s sort of what inspired us to invest a lot of time and our money into buying really good video equipment," Citizen Yoga owner Casey Must explained.
On Thursday the Michigan Strategic Fund announced that small businesses hurt by coronavirus can access $20M to help make payroll and cover bills. Eligible businesses will be selected by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation with the help of regional organizations.
The fund is hoping to disseminate the money to 1,100 businesses by April 1st.
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