Seize The Opportunity!

Up until March 11, 2020 my company, Elements of Delight, had experienced a steady increase in revenue; a direct result of a solid roster of clients that came through marketing, networking and referrals. My business was built on a foundation of faith, passion, perseverance, and dedication, no different than other businesses. We’ve weathered our share of challenges while always being able to overcome them. When I got the first client call stating they would have to put a pause on our projects, then the second, and third, followed by several more, I knew Covid-19 and its effects were not going to pass without leaving it’s share of collateral damage. 

By the time, I received word on March 24th that my mayor was imposing a “Shelter in Place” order, it was clear that we’d be in this for the long haul. My business was going to take a hit, but the question was, how would I handle it. Instead of throwing a pity party, I immediately started to evaluate my options. While doing a little online research, I came across several grant opportunities meant to assist small businesses, like mine, affected by Covid-19. I filled out each application carefully, hoping that my efforts would produce my desired results. 

Each application stated their closing date, referenced their guidelines for the review process, and mentioned that emails would be sent out indicating their final decision within the next several weeks. This was my first time applying for any grant funding, but realized how helpful it would be to have some additional support at this time. As the email responses rolled in, there was one thoughtfully composed email after the other stating that “the need was greater then the current fund resources, and unfortunately I wasn’t one of the companies selected.” 

Certain that my company was just as qualified to apply for these grants as the hundreds of thousands of others, I continued to wait patiently as the remaining emails rolled in. You can imagine my excitement when I opened my final email and it read “Thank you for submitting your application for the Doonie Fund - We are excited to inform you that you've been selected!”

Though, I truly believe in my business and the work we do, this email was just the encouragement I needed at that particular moment. It was a reminder to me that in order to get opportunities, you have to seize them. I am so grateful for the funds my company received, but more importantly, I appreciate that someone believed in my company enough to invest in it. Thank you digitalundivided!