If you’re seeking extra income – as many women are amid an economic crisis caused by a global pandemic – be careful of opportunities that promise too much.
Coronavirus Crisis
As a global pandemic shuts down the world, we’ll be talking to women entrepreneurs about how they’re managing their small businesses amid supply-chain disruption, social isolation and a host of unprecedented challenges.
5 Home-Based Small Business Ideas for Starting Up in 2021
Looking to launch amid the pandemic? Here are a few places to start (up).
5 Pandemic Pivots That Show the Resilience of Women Entrepreneurs
These women business owners had to think fast to stay afloat in 2020.
Want to #BuyBlack for the Holidays? Try These 9 Women-Run Businesses
Support a Black woman entrepreneur while whittling away at your shopping list.
Home for the Holidays: 16 Cozy Gift Ideas Under $100
Need some pampering? (Who doesn’t?) Our 2020 Gift Guide features fragrant potions, comfy apparel and eco-friendly shampoo pods — all made by women.
Amid the Coronavirus Crisis, Small Business Saturday May Matter More Than Ever
The initiative was launched a decade ago this year.
16 Songs to Fit Your Mellow Winter Mood
The Story Exchange staff shares favorite songs for a quiet, contemplative season.
Dolly Parton’s $1 Million Donation May Just Benefit Us All
Country megastar Dolly Parton might have helped get us that much closer to a post-pandemic world.
Her Gift Box Company is Thriving As Customers Seek Ways to Show Love From Afar
Amid the pandemic, people want to connect with loved ones more than ever. That’s always been the aim of Christina Geist’s firm, Boombox.
Entrepreneurial Women Help Bridge Gap Between Struggling Chefs and Food Insecure
Outlets such as Cooking for Community help connect restaurateurs whose businesses are suffering with those who need nutritious meals.
Want to Practice Self-Care? Do These 3 Things
If you don’t take care of yourself (especially during a pandemic!), no one else will, writes expert Barbara Weltman.
Apply Now for Our ‘Home for the Holidays’ Gift Guide
These days, we could all use some extra comfort (and joy). If your business makes the perfect present for wishing someone happy, healthy holidays, tell us all about it.
Amid Pandemic Hunger Crisis, Entrepreneurial Women Work to Combat Food Insecurity
With a mix of savvy and compassion, these socially conscious women are lending a helping hand as more people go hungry during Covid-19.
Yes, You Can Network Over Zoom or Email. Here’s How
Networking, whether it is done virtually or in-person, just needs effort, energy and enthusiasm, says expert Deborah Sweeney.
Beyonce and J.Lo Loved Her Kids’ Clothes. Now, This Fashion Brand is in ‘Survival Mode’
The tale of Aaina Jain and her business, Blu & Blue, illustrates the devastating impact of the pandemic on boutique apparel makers.
Hello Alice Partners with Dany Garcia to Offer Latinx Small Businesses Much-Needed Cash
The online resource has partnered with the CEO and chairwoman of the Garcia Companies and TGC Management to offer grants to Latinx business owners.
Conference for Women Business Owners Confronts Pandemic Realities Head On
The annual gathering of the National Association of Women Business Owners looks a little different this year.
She’s Making It Easy for Millennials to Vote by Mail
Jennifer Hill launched WeVoteByMail.org to encourage younger generations to request mail-in ballots or register to vote.
Lady Gaga’s Message to the World: ‘Mask Up!’
The performer and entrepreneur encouraged everyone watching the 2020 MTV Video Music Awards to keep wearing masks.
Women Business Owners More Pessimistic Than Men About Pandemic Impact
A new U.S. Chamber of Commerce forecast looks bleak for women-owned businesses, which are taking hits across the board in revenue, staffing and investments.
Leave New York? These Women Business Owners Say Fuhggedaboutit
This motley crew of female business owners has stayed true to their city — even amid a pandemic and cries that New York is ‘dead.’
3 Best Practices for Hiring Remote Workers During Covid-19
The rules of hiring are being re-written. Here’s advice from HR professionals on how to find the best employees.
Turning PPE Into Something Stylish and Inclusive
Beau Wangtrakuldee, founder of AmorSui, developed antimicrobial clothing for female scientists — and, now, health care workers.
Meet the ER Doctor Bringing Covid Tests to the Communities Who Need It the Most
Dr. Nana Afoh-Manin launched MyCovidMD to help Black and brown neighborhoods impacted by coronavirus.
A Nurse Launches a CBD Startup, Despite the Pandemic and Being a ‘Super-Minority’
Katrina Thompkins opened her e-commerce store, K’dara CBD, just as the coronavirus crisis was starting to take hold in the U.S.
From Giant Bubbles to Neo-Soul Beats, Erykah Badu’s Quarantine Concerts May Be the Future
The renowned singer employed her signature outside-the-box thinking to keep performing and paying her team amid the coronavirus crisis.
These Women-Owned Camps Are Helping Kids Make the Most of Summer
With summer plans upended for many families, some programs led by women try to offer a semblance of normalcy.
From Apps to Disinfectant, Here’s What Your Business Needs During Covid-19
Reopening requires a mix of high-tech and low-tech tools, says Barbara Weltman of Big Ideas for Small Business.
These Woman-Owned Real Estate Firms Were Forced to Get Creative. One Is Anticipating Plenty of Divorces
Women in real estate talk about the effects of Covid-19 on the housing market and their companies.
What Does Furlough Mean?
Our expert Deborah Sweeney provides this guide to understanding the furlough process for employers and employees.
Even DVF May Not Be Able to Recover from Covid-19
The iconic fashion brand has taken a giant hit, laying off most of its staff and closing several retail locations.
For Women-Owned Businesses, Bouncing Back Is Not a Reality at the Moment. These Corporations Are Trying to Help
Verizon and Lowe’s are offering cash grants and mentorship. ThirdLove wants to help female entrepreneurs of color.
Transparent Masks, Rising in Popularity, Are Personal for This NYC Crafter
Stephanie Samperi-González of Brooklyn, NY, was inspired to create the clear masks for her relative, who is hard of hearing.
What Michelle Obama Urged Graduates to Do, Especially If They Feel ‘Invisible’
The former FLOTUS gave a virtual commencement address, urging 2020 graduates to speak up – and act – through the pandemic and racial uprising.
How 230-Year-Old King Arthur Flour Became a Pandemic Superstar
The Vermont company is turning huge profits and connecting with audiences finding new comfort in baking.
The Kitchen Is Open (Sort of) With Branded Masks, Walk-Up Windows and Plexiglass Dividers
As the nation’s restaurants slowly get back to business amid the coronavirus crisis, we speak to owners about the process of re-opening.
Practical Ideas for Re-Opening Businesses in a Post-Pandemic World
Opening the doors won’t be easy, but companies can learn to operate safely for employees and customers, writes Barbara Weltman.
4 Social Media Trends for Connecting With Customers During Coronavirus
From Instagram to newer social platforms like TikTok, here’s the latest on social media marketing.
Young Brooklyn Singers Record Haunting, Uplifting Virtual Piece
Despite isolation, Dianne Berkun Menaker’s Brooklyn Youth Chorus still finds ways to make music together.
9 Women in STEM Who Might Just Save Us All
From vaccine developments to vital testing kits, women in the science world are making critical strides in helping humanity combat the novel coronavirus.
Women-Led Startups May Take Greater Financial Hit From Covid-19
According to a new study, the pandemic could wipe out gains that women business owners have made in raising venture capital.
This Cat DNA Company Says Pandemic Sales Are Up. Really.
Anna Skaya founded Basepaws to help you get a little closer to your cat.
Drew Barrymore Thanks Etsy Sellers for Handmade ‘Thoughtful’ Touches
The actress (and beauty business owner) sang the praises of online makers whose at-home ventures are “sparking joy.”
How 1 Woman Shipping Entrepreneur Pivoted Mid-Pandemic to Stay Open
Brenda Stoner’s shipping and logistics business, Pickup, took a significant hit when the novel coronavirus changed everything.
This Female Scientist Is at the Helm of Finding a Vaccine for Coronavirus
Sarah Gilbert, a UK-based scientist, is working around the clock with her team to find a vaccine for Covid-19 by fall.
‘2020 Can Still Be My Year.’ How Women Businesses Owners Are Managing Disappointment
Many entrepreneurs started the year with major plans for growth. They’ve had to adjust, writes Deborah Sweeney of MyCorporation.
Is Love Pandemic-Proof? These Matchmakers Say Yes
The economic fallout from coronavirus is devastating. But matchmakers are cautiously optimistic that people will still use their services to find love.
Angelina Jolie to Parents: You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Get Your Family Through Covid-19
The producer, actress and humanitarian had some comforting words for fellow parents trying to navigate the coronavirus crisis while caring for their kids.
Confirmed: Introverts Will Miss This Time
Believe it or not, there are some people who like being trapped in their home, writes The Story Exchange’s extrovert editor.
A Champion for Makers Reports Sales Spike, But Still Worries About Amazon
Jules Pieri started The Grommet to spotlight original products made by small businesses. But she believes many makers will shutter because of their dependence on Amazon.
Lady Gaga Leverages Star Power, Raises $128 Million to Combat Coronavirus
The international singing sensation helped coordinate an online concert that generated over $100 million for Covid-19 relief.
9 Great Podcasts to Help Get You Through the Covid Crisis
Need something smart – or just plain fun – in your life right now? Don’t we all. To help, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite podcasts.
A Bookstore With 10,000 Donors. A Famous Improv Club With ‘Wild’ Fans. Meet 5 Women-Owned Businesses on GoFundMe
Local businesses from around the country turn to the fundraising site to stay afloat during Covid-19.
These 10 States’ Small Businesses Are Most Impacted by Coronavirus
Small business owners around the nation are still reeling amid the coronavirus pandemic. This report reveals which states’ firms are getting hit the hardest.
JJ Ramberg Launches New Podcast App for Those Stuck at Home During Pandemic
The former TV host and her brother combine forces (again) on Goodpods, a podcast player and social network.
She Launched a Platform to Help Overwhelmed New Moms in Normal Circumstances. Then Came the Pandemic
Chelsea Allison never could have predicted she would raise a new baby and launch a startup before coronavirus changed our way of life.
Spanx Founder Sara Blakely Pledges $5 Million to Women Entrepreneurs in ‘Scary’ Time
The billionaire businesswoman is offering the money to 1,000 female entrepreneurs struggling during the coronavirus crisis.
Let The Dogs Out: This Seattle Dog Daycare Owner Is Reopening Her Doors for First Responders
It was not an easy decision for House of Ruff owner CJ Tomlinson to open her doors again in the midst of a pandemic, but she knew it was the right one.
Want to Launch a Business From Home? Here Are 9 Socially Distanced Startup Ideas
Think entrepreneurship might be for you? Now could be the time to find out. Here are small business ideas you can launch while quarantined.
Colorado Bookstore Owner Raises $50K in 48 Hours on GoFundMe
The Bookworm of Edwards in Edwards, Colorado — population 10,000 — has been fueled by its fiercely loyal community during the pandemic.
Small Businesses Nervously Wait for ‘Dollars in Hand’
After a rollercoaster experience applying for loans through the Paycheck Protection Program, women-owned businesses wonder how soon they’ll get funds.
Here’s a Look at the Post-Pandemic Business Picture
Yes, the world is still in flux, but there are things we know for sure, writes Barbara Weltman.
A Dash of Optimism from The Queen: ‘We Will Succeed’ in Fighting Coronavirus
As the pandemic rages on, the monarch urged England — and the world — to stay strong while socially distancing.
The Ugly, Lovely Effects of the Coronavirus Crisis on Beauty Businesses
How are the women entrepreneurs behind small firms selling skincare and hair products, makeup and more navigating a time when customers are no longer seeing – well, anyone?
Please Distract Me: 5 Viral Videos Made by Funny Women
Thank you, ladies, for keeping us entertained during challenging times.
Baby Horses Are Still Being Born: Running a Horse Sanctuary During Coronavirus
For Lynn Hummer, founder of Pregnant Mare Rescue, her work continues amidst shelter-in-place orders.
Women Entrepreneurs: Need Legal Guidance? This Nonprofit Can Help
To help entrepreneurs better understand financial and legal options while navigating the coronavirus crisis, this woman-run nonprofit has launched a remote clinic.
This Indian Virologist Developed a Testing Kit for Coronavirus. Then She Gave Birth
India has one of the lowest rates of COVID-19 testing in the world. This woman virologist’s pioneering work – completed hours before having a child – will likely change that.
5 Tips for Parents Working Remotely With Kids at Home During Covid-19
No one ever said being a work-at-home parent during a global pandemic when the schools and daycare are closed was easy.
This Infectious Disease Specialist Has a New Consulting Firm, and Impeccable Timing
Buffy Lloyd-Krejci, who recently founded IPCWell to combat infectious diseases in nursing homes, never imagined her services would come during a global pandemic.
Books to Keep Your Mind Sharp During the Pandemic
The Story Exchange staff shares recommendations for women entrepreneurs seeking feminist reads to pass the time.
A Sewing School Goes Live on Instagram, Making Masks
Her Manhattan studio shuttered due to coronavirus, Kristine Frailing of the New York Sewing Center is teaching classes from her Brooklyn apartment.
These Life Coaches Know How to Pivot During a Crisis — Here’s Their Advice
Katie DePaola and Liv Chapman, founders of Inner Glow Circle, relate some best — and positive — practices for businesses during uncertain times.
Zoom and the Downward Dog: Yogis Connect With Students Online
The coronavirus outbreak forces yoga and fitness studio owners to move quickly to Zoom, Instagram and other platforms to sustain their businesses.
Even Serena Williams Has Anxiety Over Self-Isolation
The tennis superstar revealed in a series of videos on TikTok that she is struggling with social distancing, and relayed anxiety about the health of her daughter.
Amid the Coronavirus Crisis, Oprah Debuts the New Show We Need
The media mogul aims to keep people informed and connected with her new offering, “Oprah Talks COVID-19.”
Prominent Women Entrepreneurs Offer Levity, Lessons During Global Pandemic
As social distancing becomes the new normal, famous women business owners offer encouragement to social media followers.
Working From Home During Coronavirus? Here Are Some Tips to Get You Through This
Business owners and employees are navigating uncharted waters, but expert Barbara Weltman says we are well prepared to work from home. We just need the right setup.
3 Financial Resources for Small Businesses Impacted by Coronavirus
As social distancing projections extend, business owners are becoming increasingly worried about the fates of their firms. Here are some options available for economic assistance.
For Event Planners, Cancelations Are the New Normal
Coronavirus could decimate an industry of independent business owners who pride themselves on maintaining control over chaos.
A Fun Feminist Playlist to Cure Your Work-From-Home Blues
In these troubling times, who couldn’t use a little comfort – and fun? The Story Exchange staff has pulled together a list of our favorite uptempo, pro-women songs to brighten your days.
Rita Wilson, Taylor Swift and Other Influential Women Share Coronavirus Survival Tips, Urge Restraint
Influential women are encouraging fans to stay at home and lower the risk of infecting the elderly or immunocompromised.
How to Apply for SBA Disaster Relief Loans
Women entrepreneurs: If you’re worried about the effects of coronavirus on your cash flow, the U.S. government may be able to help.
Dealing With Supply-Chain Disruptions, Thanks to Coronavirus
Women entrepreneurs who sell products say they’re facing serious delays or production halts.
Women Entrepreneurs: We’ve Got Your Coronavirus Business Survival Guide
We pulled together links and other resources to keep you informed and your venture running as smoothly as possible amid the spread of coronavirus.
How to Manage a Small Business During the Coronavirus Crisis
We asked women business owners to tell us how they’re preparing for a potential global pandemic.
She’s Giving Soft Serve Ice Cream a Healthy Make-Over
Melissa Schulman is the founder of the Los Angeles-based Yoga-Urt shops, which sell organic vegan soft serve.
She’s Helping Voice Actors, Presenters and Business Professionals Speak Clearly & With Confidence
Nic Redman is a voice coach and accent specialist training everyone from celebrities to entrepreneurs.
She’s Helping Women Navigate the Aftermath of Divorce
Sarah Woodward is a divorce coach who is helping women rediscover themselves and find happiness after difficult breakups.