Ernst Spotlights Outstanding Iowa Small Businesses

WASHINGTON – During National Small Business Week, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is highlighting some of the Iowa entrepreneurs that she has visited.

Ernst recognizes local businesses as her “Small Business of the Week” in all 99 counties to honor their impact on communities and the families who run them.

“It is an honor to travel River to River and meet with the incredible folks running Iowa’s favorite local spots,” said Ernst. “These shops mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create, they embody the American spirit and shape the culture of our great state. This week, and every week, I am proud to support small businesses in Iowa and be their champion in Washington!”

“Being selected as Senator Ernst’s Business of the Week is an incredible honor for our family and our team,” said Theresa Hildreth, CFO of Martin Hildreth Company, Inc. “As a three-generation business operating for more than 70 years, we take great pride in serving our rural community. This recognition highlights the essential role small businesses play in sustaining local economies and enriching the lives of our neighbors and friends. At Martin Hildreth Company, we’re proud to meet our region’s essential underground utility needs and contribute to the infrastructure that keeps our communities running.”

“The Brown Family and The Browns Century Theater, extend our heartfelt gratitude for Senator Ernst’s dedication and advocacy for small businesses,” said Michaela Brown, owner of The Browns Century Theater. “Her support empowers local entrepreneurs, strengthens our community, and helps brings dreams to life! We are honored to be among the Small Business of the Week recipients!”

“Thank you, Senator Ernst for fighting for small business that are the backbone of America’s small and large cities alike,” said Mike Goetz, owner of Family Foods. “Get ready for the Golden Age of America.”

Here are some of the entrepreneurs across Iowa that Ernst has recognized:

Tillies Quilts

Tillies Quilts in Webster County provides a gathering place and welcoming atmosphere for folks of all ages and skill levels to practice the time-honored tradition of quilting.

Wells Hometown Drug

Mylo Wells and the entire team at Wells Hometown Drug give back to their community and ensure folks across Davis County receive the pharmacy services they need.

Martin Hildreth Company

For 70 years, the Martin Hildreth Company has provided essential excavation services in Calhoun County and worked hard to give back to their community and our nation’s veterans.

Dutchland Foods

For over 32 years and four generations, the Van Wyhe family has supplied gourmet baked goods to customers around the country while honoring their small-town beginnings in Lyon County.

Tristate Curls

Tristate Curls in Osceola County blows their clients away with specialized care for curly and wavy hair that is a cut above the rest.

Geater Machining

Over 61 years, three generations, and a great deal of hard work, the Geater family has built Geater Machining and Manufacturing into a remarkable small business with a global reach.

Penn Drug

Penn Drug combines the nostalgia of Iowa traditions with a dedication to providing essential rural health care services to create a renowned southwest Iowa business.

Family Foods

For 59 years and three generations, the Goetz family and the entire team at Family Foods has provided Cedar County with fresh groceries and a convenient shopping experience.

Hawkeye Molding

With over 45 years of history, Hawkeye Molding of Story County is a leader in plastic injection product manufacturing that many industries, from agriculture to furniture manufacturing, rely on.

Barn Wired

In just a few years, Barn Wired evolved from a small home decor business to a multifunctional community hub where customers can shop, enjoy lunch, or find a good cup of coffee.

Browns Century Theatre

It’s clear a passion for the performing arts runs in the Brown family, and they’ve channeled their love for music into a successful small business that entertains Plymouth County.

Black Sheep Coffee Baa

They’ve never been sheepish about the coffee and food they serve, and now, Black Sheep Coffee Baa has become a community hub that provides catering services and rental space for the Greene community.

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