If you own a small business or help support them in Indy, you know the community here is truly something special. We’ve partnered with some of Indianapolis’ small businesses to celebrate the folks who make up the backbone of our local economy.
We asked, “What’s unique about the small business scene in Indianapolis?” and here’s what some of them had to say:
“Indianapolis has the resources and energy of a big city while also the charm of a small town.” — Pots & Pans Pie Co.
“Indianapolis is a vibrant community of do-gooders who look to fill niche markets that are untapped. The business scene is always looking to uplift the customer experience in new and unique ways.”— Flower Boys
“To me it feels tight-knit, supportive, and does a great job of providing unique experiences for the local community.” — The Source
“There’s a mentality among businesses here that everyone can be successful, and that’s rare to see.” — FlyDog Digital
“Hoosier hospitality is a real thing: While the small biz scene may feel urgent, rushed, and competitive in bigger cities like LA, NYC, or even Chicago, Indy’s small biz scene offers a sense of community + collaboration.” — Fishers Flower Farm
Asked
Asked
What’s your favorite small business in Indy + why?
YPCI’s Indy Blend | 8-10 a.m. | Rise & Revel | $10 | Start your morning with networking, coffee, connections, and good vibes.
Indy 500 Porch Party | 4 p.m. | Group 1001 Headquarters, Zionsville | Free | Pick up a Month of May Porching Kit to decorate your home for a porch party of your own.
Bounce + Blend: Pilates, Rebounding + Fragrance Workshop | 7-9 p.m. | MVMT House | $50 | Join a dynamic workshop that combines the benefits of Pilates and Rebounding with a creative twist — designing your own custom fragrance to take home.
Thursday, May 8
Thursday Live Music | 7-9 p.m. | The Prewitt Restaurant + Lounge, Plainfield | Cost of purchase | Jennifer Mlott returns to the patio to take your dining experience to the next level.
Friday, May 9
Swing Dancing Singles Social (Ages 21-35) | 7-10 p.m. | Slovenian National Home | $35 | Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll leave with new connections — and maybe even a dance partner for life.
Indianapolis Opera presents “West Side Story” | Friday, May 9-Sunday, May 11 | 7-10 p.m. | Indianapolis Zoo, Bicentennial Pavilion | $39+ | See the modern re-telling of a beloved musical classic.
Saturday, May 10
Mother’s Day Weekend | Saturday, May 10-Sunday, May 11 | 10 a.m. | Newfields | $22+ | Sit back and relax in The Beer Garden at Garden Terrace to enjoy live music, an enhanced brunch menu, and a Mom-osa bar.
💼 Ready for real business education? Look no further.
Presented by University of Indianapolis
Choose your pace: finish the program in one year, two years, or take more time if needed. | Photo provided by University of Indianapolis
The next big step in your career might be closer than you think, thanks to UIndy’s leading MBA program, offering practical, flexible, and accessible business education.
Hoosiers can build the technical skills employers need through STEM-certified tracks, including:
AI & Analytics
Finance
Global Supply Chain Management
Plus, learn by doing with experienced faculty and local company partnerships.
With a flexible hybrid format that works around your schedule, this program is the perfect blend of education and real-world experience.
Watch your speed. Drivers will start receiving penalties for speeding in the Clear Path I-465/I-69 construction zone on the northeast side of Indy. If you’re driving 11 mph or more above the posted speed limit, you’ll be mailed a violation notice. (WTHR)
Open
Bocado Brunch & Te’Kila, serving up Mexican-American Fusion with Caribbean flavors, is now open at 188 Westfield Rd. in Noblesville. The sophisticated spot with coastal ambiance is open daily. We’re eyeing the quesabirria tacos.
Announced
This week, the Damien Center is transitioning many of its services to its new building at 1420 E. Washington St. Check service and programming changes.
Number
30 million. That’s how many visitors come to Indianapolis every year. It’s National Travel & Tourism Week — and it couldn’t be a better time with two Pacers playoff home games, the Grand Prix race Saturday, and the launch of a new non-stop flight to Dublin, Ireland.
Tech
Local company InnoPower aims to teach 1,000 Hoosiers how to use AI for free in the next few months. The training is done at local nonprofit P30 on the city’s east side + each person is taught how AI tools can improve their workflow. (WTHR)
Outdoors
Look up. The next full moon, the Flower Moon, is expected to shine the brightest on Monday, May 12, according to NASA. Indy’s skies are looking clear with the full moon rising by roughly 9:17 p.m. that evening. (IndyStar)
Sports
Locked On host Tony East from the Pacers + Danny Cunningham from the Cavs team up to break down Game 1 and what could change in Game 2. Listen.
Try This
Discover the power + beauty of beadwork at the Eiteljorg Museum’s newest exhibition, “Radical Stitch.” This one-of-a-kind experience is the only US showing of the acclaimed exhibit, and it features 100+ stunning pieces by Native American artists from the US and Canada. Experience it for yourself.*
Fact or Fiction
It’s important to schedule a spring HVAC tune-up to prevent unexpected breakdowns as the weather warms up. Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right. Call Peterman Brothers at 317-268-8512 to book a Peak Performance Tune-up for just $59 per system.*
Travel
Manifest your best summer yet: Score this rare ~$1,000 travel card bonus and plan your dream beach vacation in a hydrangea-enveloped coastal mansion worthy of a cameo in “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” (Swoons.)*
To celebrate Small Business Week, we’re offering small business owners 20% off purchases in our Self-Service Ad Portal. Use the discount code SMALLBIZ at checkout through Sunday, May 11.
The Buy
Support small businesses from across the globe with one-of-a-kind products from Etsy. We love this customizable burger stamp for leveling up summer grill outs. Bonus: The artisan seller also offers a custom ice stamp so you can elevate upcoming cocktail nights.
I have so many favorite small businesses in Indy, but here’s the first one that came to my mind: Francis + Fern.
Over the years, especially more recently, I’ve gotten close to the owner, Kim, and she’s truly the best. I find myself visiting the shop just to see her and chat. Whenever I go, I lose track of time hanging out at the shop and that genuine friendship + connection means a lot to me. I’m also so grateful for Kim’s kindness and willingness to collaborate with me and allow me to host events at her shop.
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