PennWest Clarion SBDC Featured Clients
Longbranch Game Calls
Jake and Melinda Stanisch turned their lifelong passion for hunting and the outdoors into Longbranch Game Calls in St. Marys, Pennsylvania. After launching the business, they worked with the PennWest Clarion SBDC to build a strong foundation for growth and identify ways to scale in a manageable and cost-effective way. The SBDC provided guidance on marketing strategy, branding, target customer analysis, advertising, production planning, and long-term growth opportunities. As the business expanded, Jake and Melinda also received support in evaluating production capacity, profitability, retail opportunities, sponsorships, and white-label manufacturing. In just two years, Longbranch Game Calls experienced more than 325% growth, expanded sales to nearly every state, became an exhibitor at the Great American Outdoor Show, and earned national recognition when one of its calls was named Field & Stream’s “Best Batwing.” Today, the business is transitioning into a full-time venture for Jake while the Stanisch family continues giving back through conservation efforts, youth mentoring, search and rescue support, and involvement in their local community.
“We owe so much of our rapid growth to Jason Strohm’s business and marketing experience. Whenever we face a complex question or roadblock in our business, Jason has a knack for breaking it down so we can solve it logically and with confidence. Thanks to Jason and the SBDC, our dream is becoming a reality.”
—Jake and Melinda Stanisch, Owners of Longbranch Game Calls
Jake Lockett
Jake Lockett, a traditionally published children’s author from rural Clearfield County, turned the release of My Life as an Asthmanaut: A Book About Asthma into a mission-driven business focused on literacy, health education, and asthma awareness. As a debut author, Jake worked with the PennWest Clarion SBDC to develop a strong business plan, identify startup funding needs, and prepare an application for the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program. Business consultant Aleshia Marshall helped strengthen his financial projections, clarify eligible expenses, and refine the presentation of his author platform. Jake was ultimately awarded a CEAP grant to support marketing, website development, author copies, event participation, shipping supplies, and travel. Since launching his book at the Penn State University Bookstore, he has continued expanding his outreach through readings, interviews, newsletters, and community events. With SBDC support, Jake has transformed a children’s book into a growing small business that creates both economic and social impact across Pennsylvania.
“I loved working with the SBDC in securing a grant to help me expand my children’s author platform into a solid business.”
—Jake Lockett, Author
Violet Mist Perfumery
Kimberly Holeva is bringing a unique retail experience to Jefferson County through Violet Mist Perfumery, located in Punxsutawney, PA. With support from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Kimberly navigated the startup process by attending a First Step Seminar, developing a business plan, refining her brand identity, and selecting a strategic downtown location to launch her boutique perfumery. Drawing on her background in sales and business management, she worked closely with SBDC consultants to establish her LLC, secure a commercial lease, and build a marketing approach that positioned the business for success. Since opening in November 2025, Violet Mist Perfumery has generated strong community interest, created one full-time job, and achieved steady early sales that sustain operations. With customers drawn to its distinctive offerings and personalized experience, the business is quickly becoming a destination on Punxsutawney’s main street and a contributor to the area’s economic vitality.
“After meeting with the SBDC team, I felt confident and encouraged to move forward with my business. Their support empowered me to take that step, and now I’m receiving great feedback from customers in Punxsutawney. I’m so grateful – I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
—Kimberly Holeva, Owner, Violet Mist Perfumery
Frankie’s Frozen Custard
Frank Remmick and his family turned a long-time dream into reality with the opening of Frankie’s Frozen Custard in Franklin, PA in June 2024. With support from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Frank worked closely with business consultant Jason Strohm to strengthen his marketing efforts, plan a successful grand opening, and build awareness for the new shop. Prior to this venture, Frank had also partnered with the SBDC to enhance the online presence of his spray foam insulation business, gaining valuable experience he carried into this new endeavor. Since opening, Frankie’s Frozen Custard has seen steady growth, attracting loyal customers from Franklin and surrounding communities with its rich custard, creative flavors, and welcoming atmosphere. By continuing to utilize SBDC resources and focusing on quality and customer service, the Remmick family is building a strong foundation for long-term success while adding a sweet new staple to their community.
Patches Quilt and Fiber Shop
Julie Satterfield is bringing creativity and community together through Patches Quilt and Fiber Shop in Kittanning, PA. With support from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Julie navigated the startup process by attending a First Step Seminar, developing a business plan, conducting market research, and establishing her retail location in downtown Kittanning. Drawing on her passion for quilting and fiber arts, she created a business model that includes retail sales, classes, and future service offerings. Since opening in March 2026, the shop has generated strong community interest, nearly covering its monthly rent on its first day and attracting visits from local and regional sewing guilds. With a growing customer base and plans for expansion, Patches Quilt and Fiber Shop is quickly becoming a destination for fiber arts enthusiasts and a contributor to the local economy.
“My experience working with the SBDC has helped me feel supported and like I could succeed. Thank you for all your help.”
—Julie Satterfield, Owner, Patches Quilt and Fiber Shop
PA Mushroom Co.
Esperanzo “Espo” Wilcox turned his lifelong passion for agriculture and fungi into PA Mushroom Company in January 2021, blending his entrepreneurial spirit with a growing market for nutritional and medicinal mushrooms. With guidance from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Espo developed a business plan to secure a $10,000 AgChoice JumpStart grant, later earning an additional $25,000 as a finalist in the Ben Franklin/PA Wilds Big Idea Contest—funding that helped scale operations, expand growing facilities, and secure proper licensing through the PA Department of Agriculture. As demand increased, PA Mushroom Company grew from a home-based operation to a multi-site cultivation and retail facility, added two part-time employees, and secured $140,000 in financing through Horizon Farm Credit to purchase and renovate a destination location along a regional highway and bike trail. Now supplying consumers, restaurants, and retailers throughout Western Pennsylvania, the company is poised to double sales while continuing to build a strong reputation within the PA Wilds network as both a producer and educational resource.
“PennWest SBDC has become a dream partner to work with. Their approach to turning ideas into real time actions speaks volumes. Working with the SBDC has not only helped us evaluate and reconceptualize our business. They have also assisted us in creating a plan and course of action that has in turn enabled us to reach milestones that we didn’t know existed.”
—Espo Wilcox, Founding Partner
Duey Jerk Seasoning
Ron and Amy Huey are turning a family tradition into a growing business with the launch of Duey Jerk Seasoning LLC. After receiving permission to commercialize their homemade seasoning, they shared samples with friends at Bear Claw Country Sports Bar in Reynoldsville, PA, where strong feedback inspired them to move forward. Launching in 2024, the couple began with word-of-mouth sales before expanding their brand with labeling and increased production. With support from the PennWest Clarion Small Business Development Center (SBDC), they grew into more than 15 local retail locations and gained exposure through area restaurants. What started as a venison jerky seasoning is now used on a wide range of foods. The business has quickly scaled from eight batches in 2024 to 55 in 2025, with continued growth, family involvement, and ongoing SBDC support positioning it for long-term success.
The Crow's Nest
Dave Zawatski and Timothy Johnson turned their shared passion for golf into a thriving business with the launch of The Crow’s Nest, a golf simulator venue located in downtown Ridgway, PA. After purchasing and renovating an aging building, the pair faced challenges with construction and navigating the startup process, ultimately turning to the PennWest Clarion SBDC for guidance. With support from the SBDC, they gained valuable insight into business operations, tax requirements, and next steps for launching successfully. Since opening with one simulator, strong community demand has led to the addition of a second, with plans to further expand into a multi-purpose space for events and gatherings—positioning The Crow’s Nest as a growing hub for recreation and connection in the region.
MK Bridal & Special Occasions
Mackenzie Kijowski turned her passion for the wedding industry into a full-time career with the opening of MK Bridal and Special Occasions in Kittanning on July 15. After learning that a relocated bridal shop in Johnstown was closing, she negotiated the purchase and brought the business back to her hometown. With guidance from Jason Strohm and the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Mackenzie developed a comprehensive business plan and three years of financial projections, while securing $40,000 for inventory and a $40,000 line of credit from Elderton State Bank. Supported by strong community enthusiasm and expert advising, Mackenzie has successfully reestablished a valued bridal destination in Kittanning.
“The SBDC has helped me accomplish my business goals of owning a business and pointing me in the direction of where I need to be.”
—Mackenzie Kijowski, Owner, MK Bridal & Special Occasions
Feeney's Coffee Spot
“The PennWest Clarion SBDC has been a great resource for my small business. They helped plan out the business plan, financials and marketing from our initial idea through to our current drive-thru setup.” –Lisa Feeney, Owner
The Meredith Inn
“The SBDC has helped us tremendously with navigating the waters of a new business and how to market ourselves. We have grown both personally and professionally during the time we have spent working with them.” –Emily Long, General Manager
Quiet Acres Camping
Pam and Larry Smith officially opened Quiet Acres Camping in early August 2023, transforming a former family-owned mobile home park into a seven-acre seasonal campground featuring 12 full-service RV sites, primitive campsites, a playground, creek access, and an off-season cabin rental for hunters. Unsure how to navigate financing and permitting, the Smiths partnered with the PennWest Clarion SBDC, where Business Consultant Amy Keth helped them develop a comprehensive business plan in just one month to secure funding for renovations, utility upgrades, and new amenities. The SBDC also provided guidance on campground licensing, industry research, reservation software selection, logo refinement, and website development through Trail Blaze Creative. With financing secured through a home equity loan, Quiet Acres Camping opened on schedule and has since been warmly received by local campers, with the Smiths continuing to utilize SBDC resources to support their growing business.
“I am so grateful for the SBDC. I did not know where to begin to start my new adventure and they were very helpful in making this happen for me. They guided me every step of the way.”
—Pam Smith, Owner, Quiet Acres Camping
Forest Ridge Cabins & Campground
Paul and Monica Miller fulfilled their dream of owning a campground by purchasing Forest Ridge Cabins & Campground in Forest County, Pennsylvania. Recognizing the need for strong planning and financial guidance, they sought help from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, where consultant Amy Keth assisted them in developing a detailed business plan and conducting financial and market analyses. With this support, Paul and Monica successfully completed the purchase, improved operations, and increased occupancy and revenue. They credit the PennWest Clarion SBDC and Amy’s guidance as critical to their success and continue to grow their business while expanding services in the PA Wilds Tourism Region.
“I appreciate everything Amy and her team has done for us and would not hesitate to recommend or even use again ourselves in the future!”
—Monica Miller, Co-Owner, Forest Ridge Cabins & Campground
Still-Life Taxidermy and Wildlife Art
Dan Farabaugh turned his passion into a thriving business through Still-Life Taxidermy and Wildlife Art, which he officially launched in 2022 while still working a full-time job. Initially operating on a limited, part-time basis, Dan quickly built strong brand recognition and captured a notable share of a highly competitive market. As demand for his services grew, he sought to expand his operation and was referred to the PennWest Clarion SBDC, where he worked with consultant Aleshia Marshall to develop a comprehensive business plan, financial projections, and market research, while also exploring financing options. With the support of the SBDC and additional funding partners, Dan secured a loan to expand his shop and purchase equipment, along with a $2,000 Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Grant to build inventory. In November 2023, he transitioned to full-time business ownership and continues to grow his operation, now fully equipped to serve hunters, anglers, and trappers while successfully turning his passion into a sustainable and rewarding career.
“I cannot thank Aleshia and her team at SBDC enough for their effort and guidance with helping me get my business off the ground and blazing.”
—Dan Farabaugh, Owner of Still-Life Taxidermy and Wildlife Art
Bob's Army & Navy
Daniel Kline and Stephanie Doughty recognized the immense potential in continuing the legacy of Bob’s Army & Navy in Clearfield, PA and sought to reopen it. To accomplish this monumental task, they turned to the PennWest Clarion SBDC where they connected with Business Consultant Corry Riley. With Corry’s guidance, Daniel and Stephanie were able to develop a comprehensive business plan that was used to secure a loan and a line of credit from Northwest Bank for the needed startup capital.
Lunar Hair Lab
In the heart of New Bethlehem, PA, a story of passion, dedication, and colorful dreams unfolded. Rachel Lynn and Tianna Wyant, cosmetologists and longtime friends, embarked on a journey that would not only transform hair, but also their lives. Amy Keth, an expert business consultant at the PennWest Clarion SBDC, helped them navigate the process of registering their business in MYPATH and provided valuable insight for their bookkeeping. With the help of the SBDC, the two women were able to hone their business plan and tackle start up challenges with confidence.
"I don’t know what I would’ve done without Amy’s help, I had no idea where to begin but she went through every step with me and made the whole process easy.”
—Rachel Lynn, Co-Owner, Luna Hair Lab
Wilds Sonshine Factory, Inc.
“Aleshia and the SBDC have been a vital integration into our business’s growth. Their continued support and guidance have been a blessing!” —David Conklin, President and Treasurer of WSF
S & W Auto Service Center
“Without the help of the PASBDC, I’m not sure the purchase would’ve been possible. They made sure I understood what it was going to take to operate successfully and remain successful for years to come.” —Jared Reisinger, Owner