Technology may be the key to help small businesses during COVID-19

SALT LAKE CITY – The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough on small businesses across the country. Many have been closed while their larger competitors have been open. 

Despite all this, a new survey from the business non-profit 3C shows 74% of small businesses are optimistic things will get back to normal within six months. 

Many also feel technology and shifting to e-commerce will be the key to keeping their business open. 

During a virtual news conference on Wednesday, 3C President Jake Ward said many companies are already doing more online to keep customers and employees safe from COVID-19. 

“People are investing in technologies that are mitigating that risk. They’re limiting time in store or time onsite. And I think we’re going to see an enormous move of folks working from home,” Ward said. 

With more people working at home, a small businesses could save a lot of money. 

Ward believes making the switch will be easier for newer companies. 

“If you started a business in the last five years, you have an online presence. You didn’t start a new business and not create a website or a Twitter handle or use YouTube or Facebook ads,” Ward said. 

Technology has also been a way for some companies who cannot move online, like ski resorts, to keep in touch with customers. 

Last week, dozens of Utah small business owners also signed a letter to Governor Gary Herbert asking him and state policymakers not to let regulations strangle access to technology and low cost digital platforms.