Small businesses across New Jersey are being forced to get creative to survive the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Hoboken Business Alliance was formed prior to the crisis, and has now changed gears to help businesses in the city survive.

“We are a newly-formed special improvement district that just came online in January,” says executive director Stuart Koperweis.

After many businesses were forced to shut down to slow the spread of the virus, the alliance made sure that businesses in Hoboken were taken care of. This included forming a website full of tips, resources and links, a marketing campaign called #HereForHoboken, banners, videos and a social media campaign that encourages the community to show up for the city. A mapping app is also available that tells users which businesses are open and in what capacity.

“We are encouraging all of the community in any way they can to show up for Hoboken,” Koperweis says. “Buying gift cards to use at a later date and spend locally at business whether open or not.”

The alliance is also helping businesses plan now for the future, getting them the necessary equipment and coming up with ways to reopen safely. They are also working with city officials to create legislation meant to help the businesses survive the crisis and then thrive when it is over.

“Businesses need a strong voice advocating on their behalf – in Hoboken in particular – because of this crisis. That need is greater than it’s ever been,” says Hoboken Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher.

Hoboken’s Special Improvement District is one of 90 in the state. They are funded by extra assessments paid by businesses and property owners each year.