An evolving experience for small business owners

Central Valley businesses have had a wide variety of experiences since the pandemic began.

Ashlyn Cruise runs a craft shop that has been open since 2018.

While she has gone through many changes since opening, the pandemic has been a different experience for her business.

“As a small business owner, this year was a blessing in disguise. I have always had a love for making things and running a business but working full time and completing a master’s program didn’t allow me to give it the attention it needed,” said Cruise. “So being in quarantine gave me slightly more freedom to expand my brand the way I wanted to.”

Other businesses began their journey during this pandemic.

Student Adam Carter decided to open his own mobile detailing business when virtual school left him with extra time.

“Times are hard and with not working as much, I had to find another way to make a little extra money,” said Carter. “I was thinking of things that I could do and one day I figured why pay other people to wash my truck when I could wash my own. I ended up really enjoying it and decided it was a business I was interested in.”

Not all business owners have had a positive pandemic experience. Many are struggling to stay open.

The California COVID-19 relief package includes the Keep California Working Act to benefit small business. If passed, $2.6 billion will be dispersed through one-time grants to small businesses and nonprofits.

To qualify for the grant, a small business must have fewer than 100 employees and not exceed a revenue of $5 million a year.

There are current grants available for small businesses including the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program.

This program offers grants from $5,000 to $25,000 to small businesses and nonprofits that meet certain criteria and have been affected by the pandemic.

More information about resources and the grant can be found on the California Governor’s Office of Business page.