Across East Central Indiana, entrepreneurs are transforming ideas into businesses that create jobs, strengthen communities, and drive innovation. In this series, Forge ECI is highlighting local business owners featured in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication and our 10th edition of Livability East Central Indiana. Their stories showcase the talent, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape the future of our nine-county region. This installment features Austin Elkins of Elkins Mowing & Landscaping, whose journey demonstrates how hard work, perseverance, and a willingness to seize opportunity can turn a childhood chore into a thriving business.

Every successful business starts somewhere.

For Austin Elkins, it started with mowing lawns as a teenager. What began as a way to earn extra money after school has grown into a thriving landscaping business serving commercial and residential clients across Indiana. His entrepreneurial journey recently earned statewide recognition in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication.

Elkins’ story is a reminder that determination, hard work, and a willingness to take calculated risks can turn a simple idea into a successful business.

A Business Built Through Opportunity

Like many entrepreneurs, Elkins didn’t begin with a detailed business plan. While serving in the Indiana National Guard, he was asked to handle snow and ice removal for an armory. That opportunity soon expanded into a mowing contract, and today his company provides grounds maintenance for multiple Indiana National Guard armories, along with businesses and residential customers.

It’s a testament to how one opportunity—combined with reliable service and a strong work ethic—can open the door to long-term business growth.

Investing in Growth

Entrepreneurship often requires taking risks.

As demand for his services increased, Elkins made the decision to invest in upgraded equipment so he could serve more customers. While the investment required taking on debt, it also positioned his business for continued growth.

His willingness to reinvest in his company reflects a mindset shared by many successful entrepreneurs: sometimes growth requires stepping outside your comfort zone.

“You need to take chances,” Elkins shared in the IEDC profile. “I put myself in a lot of debt by upgrading all of our equipment this year, but I was able to take on more clients.”

The Value of Strong Partnerships

No entrepreneur succeeds alone.

Elkins credits the East Central Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) with helping him navigate the challenges of growing a business. After being referred by his financial institution, he worked with business advisor James Womack, who provided guidance on everything from professionalism to equipment maintenance and business operations.

Organizations like the East Central Indiana SBDC play a vital role in supporting entrepreneurs by providing expertise, mentorship, and resources that help small businesses succeed.

Building the Future

Today, Austin and his father operate the business together, but Elkins has an even bigger vision for the future. His long-term goal is to build multiple crews that can handle day-to-day operations while he focuses on growing and managing the company.

It’s the kind of entrepreneurial ambition that helps strengthen local economies. As small businesses grow, they create jobs, invest in equipment, support local suppliers, and contribute to the communities they call home.

Celebrating East Central Indiana Entrepreneurs

At Forge ECI, we believe entrepreneurs are essential to the long-term success of our region. Their willingness to innovate, work hard, and invest in their communities helps create opportunities for others while strengthening East Central Indiana’s economy.

Congratulations to Austin Elkins on being recognized in the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication. His journey—from mowing neighborhood lawns as a teenager to leading a growing business—is an inspiring example of where determination, perseverance, and a strong work ethic can lead.

To read Austin’s full story, explore page 99 of the Entrepreneurship Indiana 2025 publication from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.