Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Podium Ink

RED OAK, Iowa - U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ranking Member of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Podium Ink of Ringgold County. Throughout this Congress, Ranking Member Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa's 99 counties.

"From crafting one-of-a-kind vehicle wraps for country music and NASCAR stars to creating apparel for local community groups, ink-credible passion and innovation drives the team at Podium Ink," said Ranking Member Ernst. "Founders Brad and Burton use their graphic design skills and creativity in every project they tackle, whether it's in their hometown of Mount Ayr or around the globe."

Iowans Brad Elliott and Burton Murphy pursued their shared dream of creating a business and founded Podium Ink in 2006. After initially starting as a hobby, their business gained momentum when they completed a high-profile project for NASCAR star, Kevin Harvick. This success opened doors for more projects, including a camouflage-wrapped limousine featured on "Duck Dynasty" and a zebra print cargo van for Blake Shelton's Rescue Ranch. Over the years, Podium Ink has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of products and services, from vehicle wraps to marketing materials, serving clients both at home and internationally.

The Iowa Farm Bureau honored Podium Ink with the Renew Rural Iowa Entrepreneur Award in 2020, recognizing its global reach and dedication to positively impacting Iowa and the Mount Ayr community. Today, Podium Ink has seven full-time and four part-time employees.

Stay tuned as Ranking Member Ernst recognizes more Iowa small businesses across the state with her Small Business of the Week award.