This story originally aired on April 30, 2021. Many minority-owned and Black-owned businesses suffered at a higher rate than white-owned businesses during the COVID pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic has had a major impact on businesses across the board, both in Northwest Florida and elsewhere. But when it comes to minority-owned firms, the hit is even more devastating. One year ago – before the pandemic shifted into high gear – the Pensacola area’s Black and other minority-owned businesses were looking very promising. “I was involved in numerous ribbon-cuttings, went to different events; we had some great expos,” said Brian Wyer, President and CEO of the Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce. “I really felt the fact that we were really making some great strides in the community.”