University of Pittsburgh SBDC Client Success Story
A Global Waterproof Company, Small but Mighty: 2025 SBA Exporter of the Year Award Winner

Ken Codeluppi is an engineer and the President of Wall Firma, which he has owned and operated since acquiring the business in 1983. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he worked in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Mexico City, where he learned Portuguese and Spanish. His late wife, an architect from Mexico City and his multiple business trips worldwide, inspired his deep appreciation for global cultures and perspectives.

Ken currently exports to 36 countries, and 36% of his sales is exports. He already gets the Pennsylvania exports GAP grant to travel overseas. He was looking for a more personal type of connection and networking at any of those markets. He wanted to strengthen his presence in Central America and find ways to meet new prospects.

“The Pitt SBDC international trade program is very responsive and resourceful. I trust them 100%.”

He currently works with Brent Rondon at the Pitt SBDC International Trade program and attends the Go Global export seminars and webinars. The SBDC at Pitt was approached by the Latin American Cultural Center Pittsburgh to host the Ambassador from Panama in Pittsburgh and invite SBDC export clients. The SBDC extended an invite to Ken Codeluppi who was able to meet and interact with the Ambassador. The Ambassador shared some experiences and business contacts with Ken. One of those contacts in Panama is Ken’s current rep. The Ambassador is going to connect Ken with his business contacts there. An export plan was needed to have a more focused approach for the market in Panama. As a result, the Pitt SBDC and the client worked together to develop an export plan for Panama. Ken is planning a trip to Panama for follow up.

Ken Codeluppi has won the 2025 SBA “Exporter of the Year Award”. He said he received a call from Dr. Kelly Hunt, SBA director announcing the award. He is very happy about being recognized for his export business, his multiple overseas trips and his engagement with international customers. This success story would not have been possible if there was not the assistance from the SBDC, said Ken.