LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - One startup company in Lafayette is investing over a million dollars in its new facility. Antique Candle Co. has been in the Lafayette community for six years. The founder of the company hopes she can inspire other startup businesses to grow in the Greater Lafayette community.
Brittany Whitenack was born and raised in Lafayette. She graduated from McCutcheon High School and Purdue University. She says growing her business in Lafayette has been a dream come true.
"What I think is so cool about the Lafayette Indiana area for startups that are small like us is just the community,” said Whitenack. “There may not be as many startup companies here now but I really see a growing trend, because Lafayette the government leaders are really supporting small startups like us."
That’s why Whitenack recently bought a new location for her company and is investing over a million dollars in the property.
"It just feels really good as a young woman business owner that owns a multi-million-dollar company to get that support," added Whitenack.
City leaders say they hope Antique Candle Co. will inspire more entrepreneurs to set up shop in Lafayette.
"I love the fact that it's a woman-owned business and she is doing well and that's an important message to empower people and empower young girls and the next generation of entrepreneurs, “said Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski.
Antique Candle Company is on track to do around $5 million worth of business this year. They hope their success will start a trend for startup companies in the Lafayette area.
"It would be amazing if Antique Candle Co. kind of started a trend for small startup companies and young startup companies to grow in Lafayette Indiana,” said Whitenack. “There is definitely support here and there is definitely some cultivation and excitement.
The company's new location will be at 1611 Schuyler Avenue in Lafayette. They hope to start renovations in May and be moved into the new facility by August. Antique Candle Co. does all their business online to purchase candles or find out more about this business visit their website by clicking here.