OKEMOS - Small businesses are constantly working around the challenges presented by the economy. Despite the challenges, Mert's Meats in Okemos is expanding.

The owner said they their landlord contacted them asking them if they wanted extra space after the store next to them went out of business.

"We needed to do this and the opportunity became available and we did it," said Shirley Decker, owner of Mert's Specialty Meats. "It's scary, sure. But I think you have to take the opportunities when they are available and make things happen."

Decker said Mert's Specialty Meats got their funding from Lake Trust to start their business in 2011. Although she said she was nervous about starting the business, she advises small business owners to take a leap of faith.

She said having a strong connections and support from the community is also critical for success.