Too many small businesses in New York City are facing what seem to them to be unsurmountable challenges because of the Covid-19 restrictions. For countless of these minority-owned businesses, it’s a scenario of life and death staring them in the face. For those who that have been fortunate to reopen, each day raises questions about tomorrow. A bright tomorrow seems to be in a distant future.

Two small business owners and a small business expert share their experiences in this week’s edition of Brooklyn45. They are Neslie Brunache – owner of Bk9 Modern Caribbean Cuisine, Carol Urena – hair stylist at Punta Cana Beauty Salon, and small business expert Gregg Bishop whose name is familiar to small businesses all over New York City.

The Economic Policy Institute is predicting that the Covid-19 disease could potentially wipe out three million jobs from the U.S. economy before this summer is over; and while most small businesses do not have large payrolls and dozens of employees, the shutdown is a nightmare. For those that have been able to reopen, the question on many lips or in dreams during restless nights is “how do we pay bills with this social distancing – fewer customers who don’t want to wait on line.” Another concern is the millions of jobs that have been lost: how will the unemployed or persons with limited financial resources purchase products they need or would love to have.  This does not auger well for small businesses. The Federal Emergency Relief Agency says that 40% of small businesses do not reopen after a disaster.  These are dreary days for so many.

Watch this program this week on Brooklyn45. You’ll also be impressed listening to Esayah Zurishaddai Edghill, an 8^thgrader at Nest+ school for the gifted and talented being interviewed by Young Academic Achiever host Alonta Wrighton.   

Additional Resources:

Federal Emergency Relief Agency: www.fema.gov    

Small Business Administration: www.sba.gov