But some took these last 18 months as an opportunity, using the extra time to launch businesses that meet the moment.
CBC Ottawa reached out to three young entrepreneurs who decided to take this moment to launch their big ideas.
When the pandemic hit, Lacroix and business partner Ryan Hardy pivoted to focus on a home delivery app, after spotting what they saw as a hole in the market. (Submitted by Ben Lacroix)
Think local, even with food delivery
It was no surprise that entrepreneur and competitive kayaker Ben Lacroix came up with his first business idea at a sports game — even if the final product had little to do with physical activity.