Remember the little bakery on the corner? Or the produce shop where you pick up the freshest vegetables every morning? Or maybe the neighborhood pizzeria that saves the day when you’ve burned dinner again? Of course you do. Every time you needed them, they were there — and the people behind the counter always greeted you with a smile and a kind word.

Well, today’s the day you can return the favor to the entrepreneurs behind the small businesses you and your loved ones have enjoyed! 😇

We’ve brought together almost 50 entrepreneurs so you can hear their stories — the ups and downs, the small joys, and a pandemic that took hold of the economy for a few months. It’s a tough situation, but small business owners like Marian, Adrian or Cristi aren’t giving up on their businesses, nor do we think they should. Plus, they bring a dose of inspiration that shows it can be done. Straight from those who reinvented themselves, came up with something new, and know that small doesn’t mean powerless.

In a pandemic, we adapt. Or, as Marian from DOT puts it: “We’re still waiting for the new normal to take shape. We understand things won’t go back to what we knew, and we’re ready to adapt and keep this business going.”

Lend a hand, too — all it takes is to buy from a small business. And it’s really simple. Next time you step out, stop by the corner café. Small business owners like Adrian from New Spot will certainly appreciate your visit.

Or if you’re thinking it might be time to save, instead of heading to the first supermarket you see, call Cristi directly. He’s the founder of Golden Pigs and will deliver the coolest piggy bank you’ve ever seen.

Don’t know the Romanian small business owners who are stubborn enough not to give up?

Then come and meet a few!

Meet them on the BT Mic Blog!

Editor: Mihaela Ban, Communication & PR Officer, Banca Transilvania