America was born thanks to small businesses, and they continue to be the lifeblood of the American economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, small businesses account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity.

That’s why #SmallBusinessSaturday is so important. It encourages holiday shoppers to turn their attention from big deals at the big box stores to big deals, and big rewards, at local businesses. And, in this struggling economy thanks to the pandemic, it’s the small business sector that has been hurt the most. And it’s the little guy that’s the first to shut the doors.

I do work alongside some one-man businesses in Central Indiana, and the owners and proprietors inspire me daily on how they put their passion into their family’s livelihood. Which is why I wanted to give a shout-out to the following small businesses, in hopes you will support them (and others) during the 2020 shopping season, and all year long.

All Wooled Up: This Hoosier artisan takes natural materials to hand knit gorgeous, and warm, shawls and scarves, as well as create fiber art depicting remarkable scenery and animal imagery. She takes commissions for custom work and loves working with new customers.

Frontier K9: This Central Indiana dog trainer is a retired police K9 officer that comes from three generations of dog breeders, handlers and trainers. She offers one-on-one, custom training and lesson plans and works with local humane societies to help rehabilitate dogs that are for adoption.

Manners Matter K9: This Lexington, Kentucky, dog trainer has years of experience working with dogs of all breeds and ages. Her location in Nicholasville, Ky., offers classes and doggie daycare, perfect for the working dog parent. She’s constantly offering new lesson plans and on the cusp of new training tools.

Prancing Ponies: Who hasn’t dreamed of having a pony party when they were growing up? This Central Indiana business brings the pony party to your home with adorable and sweet ponies for pony rides and petting zoos. During the summer they open their farm for Farm Days on Fridays where kids can play and experience farm life. They also offer summer camps, host a pumpkin festival, among other activities that are fun for the whole family.

Rachel Griffin Photography: A fellow Hoosier, but located in Oklahoma and Texas, Rachel Griffin is a talented photographer that has been doing well capturing the perfect moment through her camera lens. Rachel travels all around the country, especially in Indiana, and does family portraits as well as equine action shots and portrait sessions.

Turn The Page Bookstore: This adorable bookstore is located in Westfield, Indiana, but she can ship anywhere. This bookstore offers a cozy location to preview books, yummy handmade treats and a place of gathering for everyone.

I’d love to learn about more small businesses and help spread the word to support the owners.