Shop-local movement Independent We Stand has released guidelines to help business cope with the COVID-19 outbreak.

• Seek expert guidance from the medical experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC has information specifically tailored for business and employers regarding maintaining flexible sick leave policies and sanitizing frequently touched surfaces.
• Take advantage of federal disaster assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA). In the wake of the pandemic, the SBA is working with state governors to fund low-interest loans for businesses and non-profit organizations impacted by the outbreak.
• Pool resources with fellow small business owners. Some communities are building a coalition of volunteers to help where they can and fellow small business owners may have creative solutions that can ease this difficult time.