Small businesses doing their part for creating more jobs

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - In the current race for the White House, the economy is priority number one for both campaigns.

Although we are still reeling from the recession, small businesses in our area and across the country are helping keep the US afloat financially.

NewsChannel 18 shares the story of two entrepreneurs in search of the American dream, while helping the nation's economic recovery at the same time.

The sweet smell of buttercream fills the air. The morning sun creeps into the kitchen.

Measuring, mixing, pouring, another start to the work day for Makenzie Kuss.

"I can't complain at all...it definitely has long, long nights but I was ready for those. So I was prepared,” said Kuss.

Stacks of baking soda, oil, and sugar line the walls.

"As far as business, from what I can tell, it has been great. I guess cake is one of those things where people are always going to have birthdays, people are always going to get married. And if you want something a little special, I try to keep it decent price range,” said Kuss.

She's seven months into working as her own boss.

"The community has certainly kept it going which is good it seems to be getting more clients then I have a group of just faith full customers which I guess says you're doing something right,” said Kuss.

The US Department of Commerce reports operations like Something Blue Bakery in Lafayette help employ about half of the American workforce.

Small business is one of the lifelines for the nation's financial recovery.

Polishing, waxing, an assembly line works on car after car at Premier Auto Detailing.

"Coming from humble beginnings to where I am now, I'm extremely excited to the future potential of what this business has to offer to the Lafayette community,” said Donte Wilburn.

In just a matter of weeks, Wilburn will officially own this business.

"I say go for the gusto, don't let anybody tell you that you can't do it. Just work hard, persevere, and people will be against you and things will come against you, but go all the way and trust in your heart,” said Wilburn.

Both businesses hired a number of employees and look to hire more in the near future, helping a growing number find jobs, doing their part in growing Greater Lafayette's commerce.