This session grounds attendees in the experiences of CDFI borrowers in food system businesses (farms, food processing, food transportation, grocery stores, farmers markets). How have these businesses been hit by the pandemic and unfolding economic crisis? How have they fared so far, and what is their outlook for the next 3-12 months? Presenters and participating CDFIs will share how small business experiences differ by geography and for communities of color, where the impacts of systemic inequality have been laid bare. They will share how they are responding—with loan accommodations, new lending, and technical assistance—and how they are managing risk. Learn from examples of struggling businesses and be inspired by positive examples of businesses that are adapting to social distancing requirements and changed demand to make it work, whether through an original business model or a pivoted model.