The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced that Indiana’s 2014 Family-Owned Business of the Year is Martin Binder Jeweler of Valparaiso. Sharon Harvey, Public Affairs Director for the state of Indiana District SBA notified Robert J. Flude, III, President of Martin Binder Jeweler, of the award this week, saying the retailer’s “hard work, innovative ideas and dedication to your community have made you a success in your business.”  Harvey goes on to add that Flude should be proud for the role he is playing in the nation’s economic recovery.

This spring, Martin Binder Jeweler relocated their family-owned and operated jewelry store into a free-standing building after realizing last year, that they’d finally outgrown their downtown location. Flude purchased the former Focus office building on Highway 30 in Valparaiso and began renovations to move to the much larger location. Though still finishing much of its exterior facade work, the jeweler opened its new facility in late March.

Congressman Peter Visclosky of Northwest Indiana acknowledged the jeweler’s commitment to its community and state-wide award via a telephone call, and on Facebook and Twitter, saying that “small businesses across Northwest Indiana are fundamental contributors to our local economy. Congratulations to Martin Binder Jeweler in Valparaiso for being named Indiana’s Family Owned Business of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.”