NAWBO members describe the tragedy of the current crisis for America's small businesses.
WASHINGTON, March 31, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) shares stories of what members are facing across America. Their struggles highlight how relief wasn't fast enough, and more is needed. We asked members to explain. Here is what we heard:
Lay Offs Already Happening
"I've laid off three people and reduced hours for some who've been here for over 12 years," said Pamela Goble with Ability Home Care in San Antonio, Texas. Her tight-knit team of therapists and homecare providers are in the critical care industry but the business is still severely affected. "We average 1,150 child therapy home visits per week, and today we are at 850. With this drop, I can't keep therapists on the payroll. Virtual appointments aren't enough."
Innovative Ways to Keep Staff Despite Unbelievable Struggle
"With no new business, we asked our 35 employees to take unpaid days off in April. Depending on how long this continues, we might lay off up to eight and our interns," explains Lesa Seibert, CEO of Mightily in Louisville, Kentucky."The Sick Leave and FMLA Acts are also a burden. Small businesses bearing the brunt of that expense, in lieu of a tax credit or refund in the future, doesn't alleviate the financial burden now."
"EXHIB-IT! got hit hard March 6th, when business stopped for the tradeshow and events industry," said DJ Heckes, CEO of EXHIB-IT! Tradeshow Marketing Experts, LLC in Albuquerque, New Mexico. "I voided/refunded over $65,000 in three days! March is a historically busy month but there isn't enough to cover overhead, payroll, and operational costs. We will close with a $32,000 net loss and April will be worse with no revenue. My focus is protecting my staff's jobs but need help as a small business."
Before COVID-19, women business owners employed 9.4 million and generated $1.6 trillion in revenue. NAWBO is focused on ensuring they can return to prosperity.
NAWBO member opportunities are open to the public to ensure our community continues to thrive through - Virtual programming, the Resource center, and the Advocacy page.
About NAWBO
Founded in 1975, NAWBO is the voice of America's over 10 million women-owned businesses representing the fastest-growing segment of the economy. NAWBO's programs help women entrepreneurs navigate the various stages of business growth. Visit www.nawbo.org
