From Product Promotion to a Nationwide Spotlight

In Oronoco, Minnesota, entrepreneur Beth (Fynbo) Benike planned to create lively social media videos for her brand, Busy Baby. However, a dramatic increase in tariffs on imported goods from China has flipped her plans upside down, thrusting her into the national spotlight as a voice for struggling small business owners.

Benike's situation changed rapidly when the cost to import products skyrocketed from $31,000 to nearly $200,000 due to a staggering 125% tariff imposed by the Trump administration. Unintentionally, she found herself on the radar of major news outlets like CNN, BBC, and the New York Times.

Turning Adversity into Advocacy

Despite being hailed as Minnesota's Small Business Owner of the Year, Benike prefers to focus on her brand rather than headlining news stories about tariff struggles. She expresses mixed feelings about her newfound notoriety, noting that while it hasn't directly boosted sales, her voice resonates with many fellow entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. "I’m not seeing thousands flock to my website, but I’ve received heartfelt messages from people grateful that I’m speaking out," she said.

Innovation Meets Unexpected Obstacles

Benike, a veteran of the U.S. Army, co-founded Busy Baby with her brother Eric Fynbo. Their company specializes in innovative baby products, notably their signature Busy Baby Mat, designed to keep toys secure during mealtime. Despite her commitment to local manufacturing, all of Busy Baby's offerings are currently produced in China, leading to a backlog of products worth $158,000 stuck in storage due to the tariff crisis.

Initially, Benike had set aside $31,000 for import fees, which quickly escalated beyond her budget as tariffs increased. While she might have navigated a previous hike by garnering support from family, the jump to an extraordinary $229,000 in tariffs became insurmountable, jeopardizing a potential partnership with Walmart.

Navigating Uncertain Waters

In the midst of this turmoil, Benike finds solace in the relationships she has built with partners in China. "They truly care about our success and are holding our goods at no cost until we can resolve these issues," she explained. This cooperative spirit stands in contrast to the strict legal frameworks common in American business.

In light of ongoing challenges, she is exploring new logistical strategies, like shipping products to distributors in Australia and Korea, while also seeking guidance from lawmakers like U.S. Sen. Tina Smith and U.S. Rep. Brad Finstad.

A Call for Change

Benike is set to travel to Washington, D.C., for a Small Business Administration ceremony, where she will be honored as Minnesota’s Small Business Person of the Year for 2025. With her son by her side, she hopes to engage directly with officials about the pressing tariff situation.

As she navigates these unpredictable business waters, Benike remains focused on finding solutions despite the shifting landscape that makes each decision feel precarious. "The rules are changing so rapidly that what seems like a good strategy today might be obsolete tomorrow," she cautioned.

Staying Above the Fray

Addressing her political stance, Benike is clear about her priorities. She emphasizes that her focus remains on the issues affecting small businesses rather than her personal voting choices, declaring, "Regardless of political beliefs, we all want what’s best for our businesses and communities. That's what matters most."