“As a community we need to help each other, we must look out for each other, we have to support one another!”

–The Station

It is no secret that these are challenging times for our community and our businesses. Our public and private schools are closing, public events canceled, and even our movement restricted.  There are many unknowns, which can evoke uncertainty and even fear.

But over the past 10 years, we at Beacon Business Alliance have seen our community come together and now is no exception. So, with good hand washing, communication, and keeping an eye out for others, we can stick together and weather the storm this time, too. 

We know there is a lot of information out there. We are committed to staying abreast of the changing events in this evolving situation and via our social media channels will share important, accurate information and links to resources as they are made available to help our small business community.

The impact on Seattleites is simply unknown, as we navigate something we’ve not experienced before. By working together, we can ensure elder and higher-risk community members don’t get left out of the loop—while also finding ways to keep our economy vibrant. Here’s what you can do:

How to support local businesses

Learn about the new recovery package to ease financial impacts of COVID-19

After outreach to small business owners and community stakeholders, Mayor Durkan announced new initial actions to provide immediate relief for small businesses impacted by COVID-19, including a deferral of B&O taxes, an expansion of the Small Business Stabilization Fund, assistance with accessing SBA Loans, relief for utility payments, and a new Small Business Recovery Task Force. Learn more.

Listen to Rainier Avenue Radio’s special broadcast

The station is hosting a special broadcast entitled “The Impacts of the Coronavirus in South Seattle and Surrounding Communities” from 3 to 4pm Friday, March 13th. Listen in here.

Join weekly small business webinars

The City of Seattle’s Office of Economic Development is supporting small businesses by holding weekly calls to share new developments, hear about the impacts you are experiencing, and answer your questions. Register to join Wednesdays from 11:00am to 12:00pm.

Find out the latest information on the virus

Public Health – Seattle & King County and the City of Seattle hosted a webinar to offer accurate coronavirus information, prevention measures, and ways for community organizations and businesses to support employees and the public. Watch here or visit their blog for the most up-to-date information.

Continue enjoying local businesses

Shopping locally helps our community, so whether you head into stores or purchase online, you can keep your favorite local businesses afloat.

And, don’t forget about Plate of Nations from March 27 to April 10. Restaurants from Beacon Hill to Rainier Beach will offer a taste of Seattle’s global food scene from the East Coast to Eritrea to Somalia. Each restaurant will offer a specially designed, shareable plate to visitors for $20 and $30.

Make your voice heard

Mark your calendars for our annual meeting and networking event on March 30, 2020 from 5:30 to 6pm at the Perihelion Brewery. We will let you know if we postpone or livestream the event.

Before then, consider nominating someone (maybe even yourself?) and ensuring your membership is active, as only active members can vote.