When a business opens a second location, it signals more than growth—it reflects confidence.

Confidence in the community. Confidence in the local economy. And confidence that customers will continue to support locally owned businesses.

The 2026 Livability East Central Indiana magazine highlights three businesses that have expanded their operations across the region: Firehouse BBQ & Blues, Bad Dad Brewing Co., and Obi’s Barbecue. While each business has a different story, together they demonstrate why East Central Indiana continues to be a place where entrepreneurs don’t just start businesses—they grow them.

Read the original Livability feature here.

Entrepreneurship That Builds Communities

East Central Indiana has built a strong reputation as a place where entrepreneurs can succeed.

A skilled workforce, affordable operating costs, supportive communities, and access to business resources have helped local companies expand while remaining rooted in the region. Organizations like the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center, Innovation Connector, local economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and community partners continue to provide entrepreneurs with the guidance and connections they need to grow.

The three businesses featured in Livability each illustrate a different path to success—but all share a commitment to investing back into their communities.

Firehouse BBQ & Blues: Growing While Giving Back

Since opening in Richmond’s historic Fire Station No. 1 in 2011, Firehouse BBQ & Blues has become much more than a popular restaurant.

Owners Nick Arbogast and Dustin Garvin have built their business around community involvement, from hosting benefit nights for local organizations to providing hundreds of free meals during difficult times. As the restaurant’s catering business grew, so did opportunities for expansion, leading to a second location in Dunkirk.

Their story demonstrates how community support and entrepreneurial vision can work hand in hand.

Bad Dad Brewing Co.: A Family Business Finds Its Niche

In Fairmount, Bad Dad Brewing Co. began with a simple passion for homebrewing.

Today, the family-owned brewery has expanded beyond craft beer to include scratch-made pizza inspired by co-owner Derek Howard’s time living in Brooklyn. That unique combination helped pave the way for the opening of Bad Dad Pint & Slice in downtown Richmond, bringing a new dining experience to the community while investing in one of East Central Indiana’s growing downtown districts.

It’s a reminder that innovation often comes from combining personal experience with local opportunity.

Obi’s Barbecue: Expanding Through Community Support

For Jeff and Michelle Richardson, the journey to opening Obi’s Barbecue began with a smoker, homemade sauces, and a passion for barbecue.

After building a loyal following in Marion, the couple expanded into Hartford City, responding to demand from customers and community leaders alike. Their success highlights how local entrepreneurs can grow while maintaining the personal relationships and quality that define small businesses.

As Jeff Richardson shared in the Livability article, great food and a great team are essential—but so is being embraced by the community.

Why Expansion Matters

Every new location creates ripple effects throughout the regional economy.

Business expansion means new jobs, increased investment, stronger downtowns, more dining and entertainment options, and additional reasons for residents and visitors to explore East Central Indiana. It also sends an important message: locally owned businesses believe in the future of our communities.

These stories reflect the momentum happening across our region as entrepreneurs continue investing in East Central Indiana.

A Region Built for Growth

At Forge ECI, we know entrepreneurship is one of the strongest drivers of regional prosperity.

Whether it’s a family-owned brewery opening a second location, a barbecue restaurant expanding into a neighboring community, or a downtown favorite reaching new customers, these businesses help strengthen the economy while creating the places and experiences that make East Central Indiana unique.

The stories of Firehouse BBQ & Blues, Bad Dad Brewing Co., and Obi’s Barbecue remind us that success isn’t measured only by growth—it’s measured by the communities those businesses help build along the way.