Running a small business is challenging. I would argue that it is more challenging than running a larger organization. There are usually fewer resources (common excuse), but more importantly, there are fewer established procedures; or worse, there are well-established poor procedures. I like to look on the bright side and tend toward assigning a positive Read more about The Appropriate Depth: A Leader’s Guide to Excellence in Small Business Ownership[…]

A whistle blower calls “foul.” Little Engine Ventures Complaint Submission Form A company manager once told me I remind him of a protective father warning him with a firm handshake and stern words before taking the daughter out on a first date, “She means a lot to me. I trust you. Bring her back safely.” Read more about Whistle[…]

Last Friday, Alex from the Think Like An Owner Podcast texted me to ask if we could do a quick catchup on his podcast. We recorded a quick episode that night and it is now available. Nothing has changed too drastically in the Little Engine Ventures world since then. Getting to see into so many Read more about LEV update on TLAO Podcast[…]

On July 18, 2019, Little Engine Ventures (“LEV”) acquired AgVenture D&M from Mike Davis and Mike Mullen. AgVenture was founded in 1983 in Kentland, Indiana. The regional seed business prioritizes product development, agronomic research and information systems to help farmers achieve maximize economic yield. “Our business is evolving to better serve farmers now and into Read more about Little Engine Ventures Acquires AgVenture D&M[…]

Local mead and cider maker to join neighborhood craft brewer. On May 20, 2019 New Day Craft merged with Fountain Square Brewery.  Both brands established themselves in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis, Indiana. Today, the brands ship packaged craft beers, meads, ciders, and spritzers across Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and most recently New York City. Read more about New Day Craft Merges with Fountain Square Brewery[…]

Little Engine Ventures (LEV) acquired 100% of Skydive Indianapolis from Indiana Skydive Center on April 19, 2019. Skydive Indy was founded and owned by Bob Dougherty. Dougherty launched the business more than 30 years ago from Greensburg, IN. The business was relocated to Frankfort, IN after a tornado hit the Greensburg airport. Skydive Indy is Read more about Little Engine Ventures acquires Skydive Indianapolis[…]

On February 15, 2019, Magic Glass Holdings, LLC (“Magic Glass”) acquired the assets of Autoglass Express (“AGX”) of 505 Farabee Drive, Lafayette, IN from Ron Whitaker. AutoGlass Express provides mobile autoglass service in the Greater Lafayette region. Whitaker will stay involved for the foreseeable future. He will help the team deliver the same quality and Read more about Magic Glass acquires Autoglass Express[…]