Startups find new ways to help community adapt in COVID-19 closures
April 17, 2020 | By Guest Author
Arlington tech companies have always been known as being some of the most innovative in the industry; they’re creating groundbreaking technologies in an ever-changing space. But in the unprecedented era of COVID-19, we’re all trying to adapt to a new normal, at least (hopefully) in the short term. And these Arlington companies are doing what they do best to help us all get through a challenging time.
From the Board Room to the Dining Room
Rosslyn-based office catering company HUNGRY realized pretty quickly that their business model of providing creative cuisine for office gatherings needed to change in the era of COVID-19. The company has instead found a way to keep its chefs employed and serve the local community with HUNGRY@Home, which offers delicious food from top local chefs delivered straight to homes. Offering packages of eight family-style meals from a variety of cuisines (American, Italian, Thai, etc.), the company promises free delivery of cooked meals ready to reheat or refrigerate, all with stringent food prep practices and no-contact delivery service.
“We are trying to keep the lights on for our chefs and employees while at the same time letting people avoid crowds by going out to stores,” said Rosy Sammataro, director of corporate partnerships for HUNGRY. She indicated the company is also partnering with Feeding America as part of the plan; for every eight meals purchased, the company donates four to feed the hungry.
Taking Virtual Networking to the Next Level
Higher Logic, a Rosslyn-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) engagement platform, is helping organizations dealing with the cancellation of in-person events tackle this new and challenging work environment in a new way. To show their support for business struggling as a result of COVID-19, Higher Logic is providing its virtual networking services free-of-charge to anyone with events scheduled between April 1 and December 31, 2020, allowing groups to continue their events in an online setting. By leveraging Higher Logic’s platform, organizers will be able maximize the impact of virtual events without the inherent risks of in-person gatherings.
Is your Arlington tech company changing its model or taking steps to help the community during this challenging time? Let us know.