Bellevue Small Businesses Embrace the COVID-19 Pivot

The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted Bellevue small businesses to embrace innovative strategies to adapt and thrive amid adversity. Café Cesura emerged as a leader in community support by opening its doors to displaced farmers market vendors, contributing over $2,000 to local flower farmers and offering a "fresh pantry" to customers. Global Innovation Exchange plays a crucial role in the fight against the virus by producing personal protective equipment, with plans to manufacture 240 face shields daily for healthcare facilities. Blazing Bagels initiated the "Bagels for the Brave" campaign, successfully raising over $8,100 to provide nourishing breakfasts to frontline healthcare workers. Molly Moon's has created an ice cream pint club to generate revenue during temporary closures, allowing them to pay employee health benefits.

Other businesses, like Trophy Cupcakes, have launched donation campaigns, sending thousands of cupcakes to local healthcare workers. These initiatives showcase the resilience and adaptability of Bellevue's small business community, underscoring their commitment to supporting one another and their patrons. As the city begins to reopen, the importance of local support and creative business approaches remains paramount.