Having a small business has never been easy. Studies have shown that only 40% of these concerns are considered profitable. But now, recent economic struggles due to the Covid-19 pandemic and persistent inflation have made it even harder, especially for small food vendors. One-third of them closed during the pandemic.
But there is some welcome news. Through the Small Business Administration, PPP loans have fueled the creation of more than 4.5 million new small businesses since 2021.
This short documentary shows the challenges of this industry through the eyes of the vendors, and how they have adapted to survive in this environment, through innovation and technology.
Jesus Arreaza is a Venezuelan student in Florida International
University, majoring in digital media and communications. After his graduation expected in 2023, he aspires to pursue a career in marketing.
Maria Chacon is a Senior student at Florida International University pursuing her bachelor’s degree in digital communications and media. After graduation, she aspires to follow her digital media career.
Jesse Fraga studies Digital Journalism as well as Women's and Gender Studies. He was awarded "Best Coverage of LGBT Issues" and "Best News Photo" by the Society of Professional Journalists Sunshine State Awards. Fraga works as an intern for Miami New Times and was the former News Director of PantherNOW. He hopes to bridge the gap between queer news and mainstream media.
