For over 106 years, CVR has been invested in Indiana and committed to supporting the growth of our fine home state. We helped bring the Colts to town, we’re one of the Top 25 Fastest Growing Companies in Indy, we’re a fan of the arts, we support mass transit and we give back to the community. We recently claimed to “run Indy.”
At CVR we believe in supporting our community – whether it’s helping a local business or nonprofit build their brand, tell their story, or volunteering. We love to see all things “Indiana” succeed – including small businesses. So while you’re out shopping on Small Business Saturday, be sure to check out some of our favorite retail, restaurants, groceries, art studios, breweries, and bars. And while you’re at it, show these local businesses some love on social media by following them and checking-in. #ShopLocalIndy
Big Lug: I’m a big fan of Big Lug Canteen. You can just tell the people there love what they do and the neighborhood. I think that sets them apart from others. Plus, if you’re a fan of good copywriting, the menu and their social media is full of gems. ~ Eric Gray
Details Gifts: I love the unique gifts and jewelry selection at Details. I always include them in my holiday shopping schedule! ~ Kara Shaw
Gallery 116: A small, quaint store in Fishers that offers everything from jewelry, clothes, art and gifts - many of which are from local artists. You can truly find "unique treasures and fabulous finds" at Gallery 116. ~ Kelly Young
Mass Avenue Toys: Whether you're 8, 28 or 58, you can walk in and be a kid. Nowhere else in Indianapolis allows you to experience the authenticity of an old-fashioned, locally-owned toy store. ~ Adam Kaps
Nurture on Mass Ave: You'll find great and adorable kids clothes that are unlike the usual stuff you see. They have a great selection of locally made and Indiana merchandise too. ~ Bess Browning
Sawasdee Thai Restaurant: Love lives here! You're always greeted like family and the food is fabulous. #34 with chicken, medium spice, soup and spring roll never fails me! :) I once suggested to the owner that they expand with another location and he wouldn't have it. He knew he wouldn't be able to welcome every customer with a handshake so multi-site was never part of the business plan. ~ Kathy Sunsdahl
Spice Box: It's a simple small business that is growing. It started out as a food truck, but has now grown to one City Market location and a second location in a growing area of Fletcher Place. It’s nice to see that this local small business has great customer service, but also provides a unique take on Indian food in a casual format. ~ Brian Kingen
The Shop Indy: When supporting local, what more do you need than fresh local tees?! The Shop has everything for everyone to show your Indy pride. ~ Dustin Thompson
Travel Leaders at Fall Creek and 79th: They take great care of customers with both planning and trip issues. Very helpful and reliable. ~ Kirk Stahl
Tyner Pond Market: I love Tyner Pond Market in Irvington because they are committed to providing grocery products that are as fresh and local as possible - all at fair prices. Their meat comes from their farm near Greenfield where the animals are raised humanely and allowed to roam free. ~ Adam Hoover
Wheatley's: My favorite local company is Wheatley's Restaurant in Wanamaker. They serve a fast and awesome breakfast and their fish fry's on Friday create a traffic jam every week. ~ Jan Amonette
Mudbugs Cajun Cafe: I was born in New Orleans so I love Cajun food. This little eatery on Main Street in Carmel is tasty, authentic and very affordable. It is run by a transplanted Cajun. My favorite thing on the menu is southern fried catfish smothered in his chicken court bouillon stew. His crawfish casserole, an old family recipe, is worth the visit, as well. It’s so good, you can order it as an entree and not just a side. ~ Paul Gosselin
3 Sisters Book Store in Shelbyville: The owners are kind and knowledgeable. You tell them about the person you're shopping for and they can suggest the perfect book. ~ Bess Browning
Metazoa Brewing Company: Between the incredible variety, solid house beers and the ability to BYOFood, Metazoa is not only a top brewery in Indy, but it’s a destination. It also has a big heart – 5% of all profits go to animal and wildlife organizations. Did I mention it’s pet friendly AND has a brewery cat? Perfect for beer and animal lovers alike. ~ Meg McLane