Indianapolis ,Indiana – A home construction company with nearly four decades of expertise and a wellness retailer that started in a mother’s kitchen have been honored as Indiana’s 2025 Small Businesses of the Year. The Indiana Chamber of Commerce announced Duke Homes of Bargersville and The Elderberry Co. of New Albany as the top winners during a special luncheon in Indianapolis.
The awards were presented as part of the Indiana Chamber’s Chamber Day at the Statehouse, an annual event that brings together more than 300 business leaders and employers from across the state. Hosted in partnership with the Indiana Chamber Executives Association, the event serves as a platform for discussions on public policies that shape Indiana’s small business landscape.
A Tribute to Small Businesses’ Vital Role
Indiana Chamber President and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders emphasized the importance of small businesses in driving economic growth and strengthening local communities.
“Small businesses are so vital to the state’s economic prosperity and make our local communities what they are,” Sinders stated. “It’s why the Indiana Chamber is dedicated to doing all it can to champion this important sector.”
The selection process for this year’s winners was highly competitive, with over 40 nominations submitted by local chambers of commerce, state legislators, and businesses. Companies with 100 or fewer employees were eligible for consideration, and the finalists were evaluated based on leadership, community impact, chamber involvement, and overall success.
Duke Homes: Excellence in Custom Home Building
State Representative Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland) nominated Duke Homes for the honor. Founded 39 years ago by Mike Duke, the company has grown from a single employee to a team of 21, building custom homes that are known for their high quality and timeless designs. Duke Homes has earned a reputation as one of the top home builders in the Indianapolis area, setting a standard for craftsmanship and customer service.
The selection committee praised Duke Homes for its commitment to employees and its consistent revenue growth. Beyond business success, the company has demonstrated strong community involvement, reinforcing its dedication to making a positive impact in Bargersville and beyond.
The Elderberry Co.: A Homegrown Success Story
The Elderberry Co. has a unique origin that started with Jenny Watson’s quest to create a healthful remedy for her young son. She began making elderberry syrup at home, initially sharing it with friends and later expanding her reach through social media. What began as a small, home-based venture has grown into a multimillion-dollar business with 16 employees, a storefront in New Albany, and an extensive lineup of 40 wellness and self-care products.
The selection committee lauded Watson’s entrepreneurial spirit, her dedication to her employees, and her deep connection to the community. Her journey from a stay-at-home mom experimenting with recipes to a successful business owner exemplifies the power of innovation and perseverance in the small business sector.
Finalists and Semi-Finalists Recognized
In addition to the two top honorees, three businesses were named finalists for the 2025 Small Business of the Year award:
• Connor Painting (Indianapolis): Founded in 1979, this industrial painting and floor coatings company has grown to employ 50 people. Led by Janmarie Connor, the company has sustained its success by expanding its services and adapting to market demands.
• Nuway Construction (Goshen): Established in 1975, this general contracting and real estate development firm employs 27 workers and was nominated by the Goshen Chamber of Commerce. The company is recognized for its outstanding community service, logging 1,250 employee volunteer hours in 2024.
• O’Mara Foods (Greensburg): A fourth-generation food wholesaler founded in 1936, O’Mara Foods is led by Blake O’Mara and employs nine people. The company’s long-standing success and strong community engagement made it a standout finalist.
Five additional businesses were named semi-finalists:
• A Total Solution CPA & Consulting Services (Indianapolis)
• Master Rental (Bloomington)
• AAA Concrete Services (New Albany)
• Lithotone (Elkhart)
• Braden Business Systems (Fishers)
Chamber Day Highlights
Chamber Day at the Statehouse, which featured the award presentation, was supported by various sponsors. The event was presented by Thompson Thrift, with the luncheon sponsored by Charter Spectrum TV/Internet/Voice. Additional diamond sponsors included AT&T Indiana, Eli Lilly and Company, and Google, while Bank of America served as the gold sponsor. Several silver sponsors, including Apex Clean Energy, Delta Dental of Indiana, and Meijer, Inc., also contributed to the event’s success.
As Indiana continues to celebrate its vibrant small business community, the Indiana Chamber’s recognition of these outstanding companies highlights the resilience, innovation, and dedication of entrepreneurs across the state. Whether through crafting custom homes, pioneering health products, or contributing to local economies, these businesses exemplify the spirit of success that drives Indiana forward.
