During an economic downturn, it becomes a challenge for any business to stay afloat.

With a population of just more than 4,000, Your Town Mosinee is a small town, but many people have found reason to do business there.

"Mosinee is a great place to do business. People are very friendly, very helpful, the whole town is that way and it's been a very good place to do business," said Jeff Kyhos, president of Charlie's Hardware.

And he should know. His family has had the hardware store for three generations.

Kyhos admits the economy has been a challenge for business, but being more resourceful and always putting the customer needs first, has helped it remain a Mosinee staple.

"I think the biggest thing has been attention to customers needs, knowing exactly what they want and being able to service them not only during the sale but after the sale," he said.

While Charlie's Hardware has been in business for 53 years, Barber Shop on Main has been open for less than a year.

Owner Toni Mohr admits it was nerve-wracking opening a new business in this economy, but did her research first.

"For me, it's great. For the mill and industrial park guys and the shift workers, I can get business all day long.. it's not like I have to wait until 5 and everybody gets off work then," Mohr said.

The economic climate may not be ideal, but business leaders are looking forward to a bright future.

A new roundabout and completed Wisconsin River bridge have given the city a new glow.

It looks lovely now, but the bridge had caused some problems for business. While under construction, it blocked a direct route into town.

"The bridge did affect our business, especially on the weekends it was closed, but it is now open and it's a beautiful bridge and we're happy to have it done and happy to move forward with it," Kyhos said.

Business leaders say the expansion at the Central Wisconsin Airport will also help the community grow.