Small Businesses in Northeast Minneapolis Struggle to Recover from Pandemic

Moth Oddities and Other Small Businesses Rely on Small Business Saturday to Boost Sales

As Small Business Saturday approaches, small businesses in Northeast Minneapolis are hoping for a much-needed boost in sales. Moth Oddities, a vintage shop in the area, is just one of many small businesses still grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic. With tight budgets and a reliance on word-of-mouth and social media, these businesses are counting on the support of their community to help them recover.

Disproportionate Impact of the Pandemic on Small Businesses

According to the National Institute of Health, small businesses were disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Moth Oddities co-owner Ian O’Neill emphasizes the importance of community support during these challenging times. With limited resources, small businesses like Moth Oddities rely on grassroots marketing efforts to spread the word about their products and services.

Moth Oddities’ Holiday Market for Small Business Saturday

In an effort to support other small businesses, Moth Oddities is hosting a holiday market on Small Business Saturday. The shop will feature vendors like Black Cat Jewelry, owned by Yaz Lo, who emphasizes the significance of supporting local businesses. The event aims to bring together like-minded entrepreneurs and provide a platform for them to showcase their products.

Small Business Saturday vs. Black Friday

According to a report by Bankrate, 60 percent of holiday shoppers are likely to spend on Small Business Saturday, surpassing the 56 percent of shoppers likely to shop on Black Friday. This statistic highlights the growing awareness and support for small businesses. As consumers become more conscious of the impact their purchases have on local economies, Small Business Saturday is gaining momentum as a day dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs.

Montgomery Collection’s Journey to Recovery

Marissa Montgomery, owner of Montgomery Collection, a leather travel goods company, shares her experience of navigating the pandemic as a travel-based business. While the pandemic initially posed challenges, she notes that the recent resurgence in travel has brought excitement and new opportunities. Montgomery’s story reflects the resilience and adaptability of small businesses as they navigate the changing landscape.

Black Friday on Broadway: A Catalyst for Economic Growth

The Northside Economic Opportunity Network, led by President Warren McLean, is playing a crucial role in revitalizing the local economy. Their initiative, Black Friday on Broadway, aims to bring together approximately 50 small businesses at Hawthorn Crossings. This event not only provides a platform for businesses to showcase their products but also contributes to the overall economic growth of the Northside community.

Conclusion:

As Small Business Saturday approaches, the struggles and resilience of small businesses in Northeast Minneapolis come to the forefront. Moth Oddities and other local businesses are relying on the support of their community to recover from the impact of the pandemic. Small Business Saturday serves as a reminder of the importance of shopping local and supporting entrepreneurs who contribute to the vibrancy of their communities. By choosing to shop small, consumers can play a vital role in the recovery and growth of small businesses in Northeast Minneapolis.