In July, GJEP and Colorado Mesa University partnered to conduct a valley-wide survey analyzing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on local businesses. The survey was sent to 500 targeted businesses across Mesa County that represent our industry sectors in similar proportion to our workforce distribution (not including hospitality industry). GJEP staff called each business and followed up with an email with the survey link. 276 businesses responded to the survey, representing 9,836 employees.
No matter how we asked the question, we had similar results. 55-60% of businesses report less than a 25% loss due to COVID-19, while 13-15% report catastrophic (over 75%) losses. Those were primarily food service and recreation businesses.
68% of businesses applied for and received the Payroll Protection Program. Regulatory relief was listed as the #1 way to help local businesses.
Ultimately, our forecasting model shows only a 3% total job loss for Mesa County by the close of 2021.
Listen to this episode of Business Beat on KAFM Community Radio for more highlights from the survey.
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