It’s no secret that the coronavirus pandemic wiped-out many small businesses as local and state governments instituted lockdown measures and the economy fell apart. But while some companies tanked and were forced to rely on initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program to survive, others happened to be selling the right product or service at the right time.

Not everything was gloom and doom.

For example, Colorado Yurt Company—a business that makes and sells outdoor shelters—experienced a rocky start in 2020, but were able to make a comeback in the middle of the year. During the summer months, appetite to get out of the house and experience the outdoors triggered a major jump in sales. Company revenue in July and August was the best on record—ending the year with sales gains of 45 percent. The business was even able to hire 18 new people—bringing the total employee count to 55—and is planning to build a new manufacturing and office facility.

Small businesses in other industries have similar stories.

Pinnacle Climate Technologies had a blockbuster year because of two specific products that were in high demand due to the pandemic: outdoor electric heaters and air sanitizer systems. In fact, sales of the air purifier jumped by 2,500 percent during the pandemic. Other businesses—including veterinarian practices and non-event based florists—also experienced a bump is sales. Who wouldn’t want to send a friend or family member a bouquet of flowers to keep connected? Or adopt a new puppy to keep you company?

The coronavirus pandemic was undoubtedly a dark period for everyone, but there’s always a silver lining. And these small businesses were able to beat the odds and thrive when others didn’t.