More businesses close to prevent spread of coronavirus

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — More businesses are closing, saying it’s the only right thing to do, especially with so many questions about the disease still out there.

“We just wanted to lead by example and [are] really encouraging other small businesses to make that choice to support our customers and to encourage people to stay home … to be creative,” Sarah Baucom told Action 9's Jason Stoogenke.

Girl Tribe was supposed to have a big show at the convention center. Baucom estimated 150 to 200 vendors and about 5,000 customers would attend. But not anymore. Instead, the store is going to try to salvage it by having a “QVC-style” sale online March 28.

In addition, 5 Church and Sycamore Brewing made the tough decision to close temporarily.

This can be hard on employees, especially in the service industry. So, one way people are helping: they’re buying gift cards instead of going in person.

"It's weird. Living in downtown, kind of spending my days here, it’s not something I’ve ever seen ... It scares me. Maybe there’s something bigger coming," said Milan Mehta.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering businesses emergency loans. They can get up to $2 million each. They can use the money for a variety of things, including paychecks and debt. For small businesses, the interest rate is: 3.75%. For nonprofits, it’s 2.75%.

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