Businesses like Gene's Camera in South Bend epitomize Gov. Mike Braun's goal to help small business ownership transition to the next generation.
Longtime employee Jon Gilchrist, along with his partner Melaney Miller, took on that responsibility in 2025 when he bought the store from Jack and Barb St. Pierre, who retired after 44 years. They bought the store in 1981, from Eugene Mutzl, the original owner.
They were rewarded for their efforts when Gene's Camera was named Startup Small Business of the Year during the 2026 Small Business Impact Awards on May 8 in Indianapolis.
“The event and awards ceremony really opened our eyes to how hard Indiana leaders are working on economic growth in the state, and how much they value the continuation of a legacy business,” Miller said in a statement. “We are humbled and honored to have been nominated and chosen for such an award, when tens of thousands of new businesses were started in Indiana last year. We are so grateful to Alan Steele at the Indiana Small Business Development Center and to the greater Michiana community.”
The store also will host a community celebration at the store May 27, 513 Lincoln Way West, South Bend.
Braun declared May 4 through 8 Small Business Week in Indiana.
“As a fellow entrepreneur, I understand the passion and grit needed to succeed,” Braun said. “I commend our 2026 Small Business of the Year award winners and our entire network of founders and small businesses statewide that create meaningful, quality jobs for Hoosiers.”
Gilchrist and Miller's goal is to preserve the store’s reputation and keep it thriving in today’s evolving photography landscape. Both Gilchrist and Miller have experience in photography.
“Gene’s has been a cornerstone of the photography community, and we’re excited to continue its tradition of excellence while also expanding educational opportunities, services and product offerings,” Gilchrist said. “We want it to remain our customers’ ‘happy place.’”
They consider themselves stewards of the long-time store, considered an “institution” in South Bend, according to a statment from the governor's office. They are committed to preserving Gene's legacy.
“Their legacy, and the community that has supported Gene’s for generations, will always be at the heart of this store,” Miller said in a past story. “Jon and I both believe that Gene’s is the community’s camera store, and our role is to be good stewards of it, ensuring its success well into the future.”
The Indiana Small Business Development Center chose the eight 2026 Small Business Impact Awards honorees based on their work with the organizations. Gilchrist worked with ISBDC adviser Alan Steele to create a “path to ownership.”
“His support was pivotal in making the acquisition a reality in 2025,” Miller said.
The state wants all Indiana entrepreneurs to have that same kind of support. The state is home to almost 600,000 small businsses.
“This week – and every week – we celebrate Indiana small businesses that are creating jobs and driving our economy,” said Secretary of Commerce David Adams. “As a state, we are committed to providing the programs and resources needed to inspire continued entrepreneurship and support the growth, technological advancements and success of our small businesses.”
Learn more about the state's 2026 small business awardees here.
The governor also announced the launch of Keep IN, a statewide initiative that will provide resources for small business owners. The Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation spearheaded the program.
“Keep IN is about helping Indiana business owners plan ahead and make informed decisions about the future,” said Brian Schutt, Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation director. “By starting earlier and increasing access to information, we can help support stronger outcomes for business owners, employees and local communities.”
Business owners in Northwest Indiana, South Central Indiana and Southwest Indiana can access SMB.co tools free of charge.
