There is no doubt that our local business landscape has morphed during the past weeks. Many businesses are hurting, and some will not survive. Some entrepreneurs are finding ways to support the community while building a budding venture. Businesses that help people “social distance” from others are prime examples. We need to realize that our behaviors post-pandemic will most likely change, taking with us those things we learned and enjoyed while staying at home.
Delivery Services
From far and wide, delivery services are topping the list of helping keep people at home. Giant food delivery services have stepped in, but local entrepreneurs can assist local businesses get their goods out there as well. Consider the local plant nursery that wants to sell seedlings during the spring planting time or the paint store that wants to get products to bored homeowners.
Meal Prep Services
Creative chefs (and short order cooks) could utilize the many unused commercial kitchens to prep food for local families. Set up a quick Wix website, create social media, and boom, you’re in. Partner with a local delivery service for quick, easy delivery.
Home Gym Equipment
With gyms closed, people are looking for creative ways to exercise. Selling equipment, big and small, with “how-to” instructions and workouts are at an all-time high.
Landscaping
We’re at home and looking out the windows more than ever, and what we’re seeing is a need for improvement. The warm weather brings lots of landscaping ideas.
Game Makers
Most of us have already binge-watched to the max and could use some creative ways to pass our free time at home. Board games, puzzles and crafts top the list. If you are imaginative, design your own and sell them.
Cleaning Services
Homes are not the only thing that could be cleaned and detailed. Cars, trucks and RVs need some TLC while not being used.
Education
Parents of school-aged children are trying their best to engage their children and are struggling in many cases. Why not hire a virtual tutor? Workbooks are also selling faster than hand sanitizer. If you have the background and knowledge, create your own worksheets or books, and sell online.
Financial Services
What better time to help people with their finances and retirement than now. Should people re-think their investments? Revise their budget? Not eating out has saved money for many people. Help people start a new regimen. Looking further into the future regarding retirement – we like staying at home; can we retire sooner than expected?
Virtual Event/Party Planning
Weddings, baby showers and anniversary parties have all been cancelled or postponed. Why not show people how to set up their celebrations online? Cover all the little things that go along with this low-cost method, such as invitations, videos from guests, party favors and more.
Digital Marketing
Even before the coronavirus, small businesses were desperate for digital marketing assistance, and now it’s even worse. If you are good at creating social media campaigns, small businesses need you. They need to engage their customers now more than ever.
Whatever you choose, know that the Small Business Development Center in your area can help you set your plans in motions, for free! You will need to create an organized business plan and develop financial projections (income/revenue as well as expected expenses). A marketing plan will help you launch and grow.
