HI-FI Indianapolis and MOKB Presents Leaders Named Central Indiana SBDC Small Business Persons of the Year
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The Central Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Butler University has named Josh Baker and Dan Kemer, co-founders of HI-FI Indianapolis and MOKB Presents, as the 2025 Central Indiana Small Business Persons of the Year. The recognition honors their leadership, resilience, and lasting impact on the region’s cultural and economic vitality, as well as their sustained contributions to Indianapolis’ entrepreneurial and creative economy.
Since founding MOKB Presents in 2008 and opening HI-FI Indianapolis in 2014, Baker and Kemer have helped shape one of the Midwest’s most dynamic independent live-entertainment platforms. What began as a modest, entrepreneur-led venture has grown into a multi-venue operation that has produced more than 3,500 events, sold approximately 1.5 million tickets, and served more than 200,000 customers—while helping establish Fountain Square as one of Indianapolis’ premier entertainment districts.
Their leadership was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic, when mandatory shutdowns threatened the live-events industry nationwide. Through disciplined financial management, strategic use of available SBA resources, and a willingness to make difficult operational decisions, Baker and Kemer preserved the core of the business and positioned it for a strong recovery. Today, HI-FI Indianapolis and MOKB Presents stand as a resilient, forward-looking enterprise with a clear trajectory toward long-term sustainability.
“Josh Baker and Dan Kemer represent exactly what this award is meant to celebrate,” said Dan Drexler, Regional Director of the Central Indiana SBDC at Butler University. “They are thoughtful, strategic business leaders who understand how to grow responsibly, adapt in the face of adversity, and give back to the community that supports them. Their story is one of perseverance, smart risk-taking, and lasting impact—on employees, artists, and the broader Indianapolis economy.”
Beyond their financial success, Baker and Kemer have built a culture of community engagement and workforce development. Through HI-FI, LO-FI, and the HI-FI Annex, more than 80,000 guests annually generate meaningful economic activity for surrounding restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses. Their internship and early-career programs have helped launch careers at leading national firms including WME, Interscope Records, Wasserman Music, and United Talent Agency. They are also founding members of the Indiana Independent Venue Alliance and remain active in statewide and national advocacy through the National Independent Venue Association.
“This recognition means a great deal to both of us,” said Josh Baker, CEO and Co-Founder of HI-FI Indianapolis and MOKB Presents. “Dan and I have spent our careers building something we believe in—supporting artists, creating opportunities for young professionals, and contributing to the neighborhoods we call home. We’re grateful for the support of the Central Indiana SBDC and the SBA, and we’re proud of the team that has helped us navigate challenges and grow into the future.”
The Central Indiana Small Business Person of the Year Award is among the highest honors conferred by the SBDC network, recognizing business leaders who demonstrate excellence in growth, leadership, and community impact.
As part of the SBA awards process, Baker and Kemer may also be considered for recognition at the state level later this year.
For more information about the Central Indiana SBDC at Butler University and its support for small businesses across the region, www.isbdc.org.