NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The pandemic has been especially hard on small businesses.
Ahead of Small Business Saturdaynext week, the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum to discuss ways to encourage the community to shop small.
Yuri Cunza, the president and CEO of the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, is hoping folks will shop small.
According to American Express, 62% of small businesses in the U.S. need to see sales income return to the same rate it was pre-pandemic before the end of the year to stay in business.
Cunza encourages small businesses need to take advantage of social media in order to have a greater reach.
"There are statistics that show only 64% of small businesses have a website for instance we need to be better, especially during a pandemic when we can’t always do transactions in person," said Cunza.
Getting creative during this time can also help.
"If you have a brick and mortar site put something out on the sidewalk," said Walter Perry, the former SBA district director. "Use that sidewalk marketing to bring people in."
For every dollar that is spent at a small business, about 67 cents stays in the local community.
Cunza says this means by shopping small -- you could be helping your neighbors keep their doors open.
"There is an estimated 4.7 million Hispanic owned businesses in the whole country and in Nashville, we estimate at least 1,500, if not more, Hispanic owned businesses," said Cunza.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
-
Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
