Northwest Indiana Business Magazine has been shining a light on the Region's business community for 35 years. To celebrate, we are featuring the entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities.
Gary Harper has spent the past 10 years teaching entrepreneurs how to grow their businesses from his St. John office.
His early career included managing accounts at large companies. In August 2026, he started Sharper Business Solutions. Since then, he has grown the business to 27 team members, who serve clients in nine countries. The company has coached more than 2,000 businesses.
“Throughout my career, I’ve owned multiple businesses, coached leaders across a wide range of industries, and worked with companies of all sizes,” Harper said. “My education has come from real-world business ownership, continuous learning and the privilege of working alongside exceptional leaders.”
Those experiences led him to develop the RISE Business Framework, which outlines a plan for strategic growth with roots in community development.
IN 2023, he published the book “RISE Business Framework: The 4 Quadrants of Organizational Structure,” which became an Amazon bestseller in its category.
“Through the RISE Business Framework, we equip leaders with the systems, leadership, financial clarity, and strategic direction they need to build healthy, profitable businesses that positively influence their employees, families, customers, and communities,” Harper said.
Question: What is your mission statement:
Answer: Our mission is to do a good work that supports God’s work. We fulfill that mission by helping business owners rise through building organizations that create lasting impact.
Q: What was the catalyst for the business?
A: I spent years watching hardworking business owners pour everything they had into their companies, yet many still struggled because they lacked clear systems, strong leadership and organizational alignment. I believed there had to be a better way. That conviction led me to create Sharper Business Solutions and eventually develop the RISE Business Framework — a practical operating system that helps organizations build the right foundation so they can grow with purpose, create healthy cultures and make a lasting impact.
Q: What is your background/education?
A: I’m an entrepreneur, business coach, author and speaker with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations improve performance. Every experience has contributed to the development of the RISE Business Framework.
Q: What is a goal for the future?
A: Our vision is to establish the RISE Business Framework as the premier operating system for businesses around the world. We want to equip and develop more coaches, expand our global reach, and help thousands of organizations become healthier, more profitable, and more purpose-driven. Ultimately, we want every business we serve to create a ripple effect of positive impact that extends far beyond the workplace.
What goal have you accomplished so far?
A: We’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of business owners strengthen their leadership, improve their operations, and build organizations that create lasting value. Along the way, I’ve authored Amazon bestselling books and developed the RISE Business Framework, which continues to transform businesses and the people who lead them.
Who helped you along the way?
A: First and foremost, I thank God for every opportunity and every open door. None of this would have been possible without my wife, Susan, whose unwavering support has been instrumental from the beginning. I’m also grateful for our incredible team, trusted mentors, faithful clients, and my family. Success is never achieved alone, and I’m thankful for the people who have believed in our mission and helped make it a reality.
A book, movie, TV show that inspired you?
A: “Good to Great,” by Jim Collins. Its principles on disciplined leadership, organizational excellence and building companies that endure continue to influence how I lead and coach businesses today.
Favorite inspirational quote?
A: “Rise by lifting others,” by Robert Ingersoll, an American politician, orator and a Civil War veteran
Our Entrepreneurship Q&A spotlights the bold thinkers and doers shaping the future of the Region. We hear from local entrepreneurs who are turning ideas into impact — sharing their insights, challenges and the stories behind their businesses. The column celebrates innovation right here at home. To nominate an entrepreneur, email the editor at news@nwindianabusiness.com.
