eBay recently hosted a virtual panel discussion focused on the role digital tools are playing in connecting American small businesses to customers around the world, the resulting inclusive economic growth and how it offers a pathway to recovery. The panel featured Danna Golden, owner of Saddle Up, located in Longmont, CO; Frank Guerra, owner of Rising Star Medical Supply, located in McAllen, TX; Rhett Buttle, Co-Executive Director of the Small Business Roundtable; and Ashley Shillingsburg, Senior Manager of Government Relations at eBay.
Danna and Frank discussed how they got their businesses started, the impact of the pandemic, and the adjustments they have made to continue to be successful. They also talked about how eBay has connected them with customers around the world and the growth they experienced as a result. Rhett provided an overview of the current landscape for small businesses across the US and how the pandemic has been a driver of innovation for smaller enterprises. Ashley gave an overview of what is unique about eBay from a small business point of view and eBay’s Up & Running Program, which is designed to help retailers without an e-commerce presence transition to selling online. Ashley also discussed eBay’s new US Small Online Business Report, released in conjunction with the event. This in-depth report provides insights into the trade and growth of eBay-enabled small businesses across the United States at the national and state levels. The findings presented in this report suggest the global commerce opportunities offered by eBay can once again offer a pathway to economic recovery for American small businesses, regardless of location. The panelists also offered their thoughts on what government should include in upcoming relief legislation to help small businesses as well as why there may be reasons for optimism as we look to the future.
eBay would like to thank Danna, Frank and Rhett for taking the time to join us and sharing their unique perspectives on what small businesses are experiencing right now and the promise of ecommerce in helping to drive the recovery. You can view this webinar along with the others that detail support available for small businesses during COVID-19 here.