Small Business Week: Taking Time for Learning, Connection + Fun

The first week of May marks Small Business Week. Established by the U.S. Small Business Administration over 50 years ago, Small Business Week provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate small businesses and the contributions they make to our economy, culture and  business community. 

It’s no secret that small businesses took a significant hit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now more than ever, it’s critical to support and uplift entrepreneurs who are working hard to realize their business dream as they contribute to the vitality of their local communities. 

As events and celebrations transpire across the country during Small Business Week, MJ recognizes one of our own associates leading the charge in uplifting small businesses. As MJ’s Director of Small Business, Jon Slusser plays an integral role in serving and resourcing small business owners throughout the Greater Indianapolis area. “In addition to my work with MJ, I also co-founded the Indiana Small Business Association (ISBA) with the aim to share resources across the small business community,” said Jon, as his passion to help small businesses expands outside the walls of MJ. 

The purpose of the Indiana Small Business Association is two-fold: 

  1. To provide small businesses with a network of trusted advisors who represent a variety of industries  
  2. To create a partner base of industry experts who can use ISBA as a networking resource  

One way the ISBA serves as a networking resource is by hosting a quarterly “Small Business Night Out.” These gatherings are designed to salute the 24/7/365 grind of small business owners and provide time for connection and networking in a fun yet casual environment.  

Another resource featured through the ISBA is their podcast, Small Business Never Sleeps. Featuring Jon as a co-host, each episode features a new “guest” entrepreneur or small business owner invited to share their story. Guests have the opportunity to share their story and the vision behind their business. Listeners hear from real-life business owners as they open up about lessons learned through their own experiences. Whether you’ve already established your business or are in the early stages of planning, the podcast can serve as an educational resource and source of encouragement to help you along your own business journey.  

If you own a small business or are starting the process of building your own business, consider these resources as you work to make your business dreams a reality. Why not attend the next Small Business Night Out to make new connections or check out the Small Business Never Sleeps podcast and learn from other business owners? 

No matter what stage you’re at in your small business journey, MJ is here to help. Equipped with expertise in consulting entrepreneurs and strategizing to achieve your business goals, we are eager to start the conversation. To take the next step, sign up for a complimentary small business consultation today.

SMALL BUSINESS CONSULTATION