PennWest Clarion SBDC Client Success Story
New Taxidermy Service in the Middle of the Pennsylvania Wilds

Dan Farabaugh is the owner of Still-Life Taxidermy and Wildlife Art, which focuses on an extensive range of taxidermy services tailored to preserve trophies from hunting, fishing, and trapping. In 2022 the business was officially started, even though he could only take on a limited number of projects because of time constraints with his full-time job. At this point taxidermy was still considered a hobby for Mr. Farabaugh. However, within the first year of business (working part-time), Dan Farabaugh gained sustainable brand recognition and a good portion of the market share in a very competitive industry.

“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.”

With the increased sales and a number of ongoing projects, the owner decided to seek funding for an addition to his shop, which would allow him to take on more projects and work full-time at his business. Recognizing the challenge, he reached out to Tina Gradizzi at the Elk County Economic Development Committee for additional funding services. Tina from EDC referred Mr. Farabaugh to PennWest Clarion SBDC, where he found guidance from consultant Aleshia Marshall.

Over several months, Aleshia supported Dan Farabaugh in finalizing a comprehensive business plan and crafting financial projections. Furthermore, he obtained target market research, gathered current data, and was connected with multiple commercial banks to explore financing options. After receiving a loan to put an addition on his shop and purchase equipment, the owner used the information gathered for the business plan to apply for the CEAP (creative entrepreneur accelerator grant) through the Elk County Council of the Arts. The $2,000 grant was used to purchase inventory, and it assisted the owner in kicking off his full-time business ownership. In November 2023, Dan Farabaugh transitioned to working as a full-time taxidermist, as the owner of Still-Life Taxidermy and Wildlife Art, and he has never been happier.

Through the collaborative efforts of Dan Farabaugh, the PennWest Clarion SBDC, and the Elk County Economic Development Center, Mr. Farabaugh was able to transform his life doing what he loves, while also living out his “American Dream.” The assistance from the SBDC has enabled Dan Farabaugh to launch a thriving and expanding business catering to individuals hunting, fishing, or trapping animals. Dan Farabaugh is now equipped to handle any type of trophy brough in by customers.