Small businesses facing economic uncertainty [Video]

Since the pandemic, many small businesses have had to ask where’s the money.

MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — Since the pandemic, many small businesses have had to ask where’s the money, whether it’s to deal with rising costs or a beleaguered workforce.

In a volatile economy, in which small businesses are the backbone, business owners have had to contort their entrepreneurial spirit now more than ever.

In the midst of a wave of businesses closing their doors in our area, a few others are using this time as an opportunity to double down on their brand.

“One day I said, hey man, do you want to do this on our own,” Michael Smoak, Co-owner of Middle James Brewery told WCNC Charlotte while reminiscing how the brewery began.

Coming home a champion in a home-brew contest, Smoak conjured his love for hops and craft beer into what today is three bustling locations.

“We’ve always loved the downtown Waxhaw area and we got a call …