As goes the U.S. consumer, so goes the U.S. economy.

Many that survived the shutdowns in the spring have a strategy, while others fear they just won’t make it.

With pandemic restrictions still cutting into revenues, some business owners say they need a break on commercial rent. But not all landlords are willing to negotiate.

Keba Konte, CEO of Red Bay Coffee based in Oakland, California, recounts the challenges his business has faced due to the pandemic.

There are small- and medium-sized businesses who use Amazon’s platform and logistics to reach wider audiences.

Celene Navarrete had to close her shop doors in March and is now growing her online store and attending virtual book fairs.

Tess Thomas, owner of Emma’s BBQ in Seattle, Washington, uses her mother’s recipes at her restaurant.

“Everything is interconnected,” said Patty Delgado, CEO of Hija de tu Madre. “I think no business or no industry is totally immune to this.”

A bartender’s diary before the bar he works in closes permanently.

Tally Dilbert wanted to get her mind off the difficulty of being home all day. That’s when she rediscovered painting.