Our Mission

To create healthier, stronger communities and more jobs in Indiana through the support of Indiana-owned businesses.

INDIANA OWNED WAS STARTED ON A SIMPLE PREMISE:

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES AND LOCAL NONPROFITS FASTER AND EASIER.

Championing Local Businesses and Building Community Connections

Welcome to IndianaOwned.com, where the heartbeat of Indiana businesses thrives, and local communities unite. At the core of this digital marketplace is the visionary founder, Mel McMahon. With a passion for community empowerment and an unwavering commitment to the entrepreneurial spirit of Indiana, Mel has been the driving force behind the inception and success of IndianaOwned.com.

A Visionary Entrepreneur

Mel’s journey in the entrepreneurial world began long before the creation of IndianaOwned.com. Armed with a background in business and a deep love for her home state, Mel identified the need for a platform that would not only showcase the diverse offerings of Indiana-owned businesses but also serve as a catalyst for community growth. Thus, the vision for IndianaOwned.com was born – a digital space that celebrates, supports, and connects local businesses with the residents they serve.

Community Advocate

Mel McMahon isn’t just a businesswoman; she’s a community advocate with a genuine desire to see Indiana thrive. Her commitment to the local economy goes beyond the digital realm, as she actively engages with businesses and community members to foster meaningful connections. Mel believes that when communities support their own, everyone flourishes, and IndianaOwned.com reflects this ethos.

The Journey of IndianaOwned.com

Under Mel’s guidance, IndianaOwned.com has evolved into a dynamic and inclusive platform. From the initial stages of conceptualization to the platform’s growth and impact on the local economy, Mel has been at the forefront, steering the ship with determination and a deep understanding of the needs of both businesses and consumers.

Connecting Businesses and Consumers

Mel envisions IndianaOwned.com not just as a marketplace but as a community builder. Through business spotlights, success stories, and collaborative events, she has fostered an environment where businesses can thrive and customers can discover the incredible offerings right in their own backyard. The platform, under Mel’s leadership, is a testament to the belief that supporting local businesses is the cornerstone of community strength.

Challenges Turned Opportunities

Throughout the journey, Mel McMahon has faced challenges head-on, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. Her resilience and dedication to the IndianaOwned.com mission have not only shaped the platform’s trajectory but have inspired a community of entrepreneurs and consumers alike.

Join the Movement

As the founder of IndianaOwned.com, Mel invites you to join the movement of supporting local businesses, strengthening communities, and celebrating the rich tapestry of Indiana entrepreneurship. Together, let’s build a future where businesses flourish, connections thrive, and the spirit of IndianaOwned.com resonates in every corner of the Hoosier state.

 

When you see the Indiana Owned badge, you know you are supporting a local business.

P.S. Looking for Indiana made products? Check out our sister business Indiana Gifts!

P.S.S. Are you starting a new business? Visit our “Checklist for Starting a New Business.”

Mel McMahonCo-Founder

Mel McMahon is an entrepreneur, podcast host, radio and television contributor, and local business activist. In 2014, Mel co-founded Indiana Originals (now known as IndianaOwned.com), a promotions and branding company for Indiana-owned businesses. In 2020, she co-founded Indiana Gifts, a gift shop featuring products made by Indiana companies with a brick-and-mortar location on Main Street in Lebanon, IN. In addition to running her businesses, Mel also consults for nonprofits, sits on several boards, and spends as much time as possible with her two sons. She is the 2021 Emerging Entrepreneur Award recipient from the National Association of Women Business Owners and a 2022 and 2023 nominee for Indy’s Best and Brightest presented by Junior Achievement of Central Indiana. Learn more about Mel on her LinkedIn profile, but don’t bother messaging her there. She rarely checks it. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melmcmahon/

Funfacts:

Irvington, Indianapolis

Road trips, trying new restaurants, planning the next vacation

I eat almost everything.

Megan MartinCreative Manager

Megan Martin is passionate about supporting local businesses and connecting shoppers with Indiana makers. She’s an accidental entrepreneur, starting her jewelry business to stay home with her children. Seeing the need for shopping events featuring only handmade items like her own led to becoming the organizer behind the Hoosier Artisan Boutique Holiday Gift Fair - which is how she met Mel. Megan is most excited about helping Indiana businesses connect and engage with a community eager to buy local.

Funfacts:

Indianapolis (near Speedway)

Reading, Photography, Baking

Sushi and anything with chocolate

Micah WrightAccount Specialist

Micah Wright is a multi-passionate individual who relishes the opportunity to bring clarity, consistency, and creativity to any project. Over the years, she has held several positions, but her priority has become making use of her skills, resources, and curiosity to positively impact her community. Micah is the founder of Micah Wright(s), a freelance writing and editorial agency. When not wrestling with words, Micah can be found reading, napping, or walking alongside her dogs.

Funfacts:

Uniondale, Indiana

Reading | Cleaning

🥨 Soft Pretzels 🥨