U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, announced on Mar. 31 that Zeb’s Smokehouse in Taylor County has been named her Small Business of the Week. Ernst said she plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa’s 99 counties during the current Congress.
The recognition highlights efforts to support and showcase local entrepreneurship across Iowa. By honoring businesses like Zeb’s Smokehouse, Ernst aims to draw attention to their role in serving communities and strengthening rural economies.
“Zeb’s Smokehouse represents the very best of Iowa’s entrepreneurial spirit. By turning their dream into reality, Zeb and Andrea created a business that serves farmers, feeds families, and strengthens rural America,” said Chair Ernst. “Through strong relationships with local farmers and producers, this small business knows how to meat the needs of their community.”
Since its founding in 2015, Zeb’s Smokehouse has grown from an idea into a trusted wild game processing operation offering locally raised beef and pork cuts. The company emphasizes farm-to-table service while supporting area farmers and livestock producers.
Ernst’s office provides assistance for Iowans dealing with federal agencies such as Social Security, Medicare, veterans benefits, immigration matters, and military affairs according to her official website. She served more than 23 years in the Iowa Army National Guard—including commanding troops during Operation Iraqi Freedom—and achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel according to her official website.
Raised on a family farm in Montgomery County where hard work was emphasized according to her official website, Ernst became the first woman from Iowa elected to federal office upon joining Congress according to her official website. She holds degrees from Iowa State University and Columbus State University according to her official website.
As Chair Ernst continues recognizing outstanding small businesses across Iowa with this award program, future honorees will be announced throughout all counties.
