The University of Scranton SBDC Client Success Story
Lathering Up for Growth

When Kathleen Connolly first began making handcrafted soaps in 2021, she wasn’t trying to start a business. She simply enjoyed creating small-batch soaps and body care products using natural ingredients, experimenting with recipes, and sharing them with family and friends. Before long, customers began returning for products they appreciated for their quality, simple ingredients, and thoughtful craftsmanship. As sales increased through local vendor markets and retail partnerships, Kathleen realized her passion had become something with real business potential.

“I am thrilled to have access to such a wonderful organization as the Scranton SBDC. I greatly appreciate the work you and the SBDC do to help people just like me make their dreams come true!”

Turning that momentum into a sustainable business presented a new set of challenges. Although she had established a loyal customer base as a sole proprietor, Kathleen wanted to formally establish West Grove Soaps as an LLC and explore funding opportunities that would support future expansion. Looking for guidance, she contacted the Small Business Development Center at The University of Scranton (SBDC). Working with business consultant Patrick Keehan, Kathleen developed a plan to move West Grove Soaps forward. Patrick connected her with the Penn State Law Entrepreneur Assistance Clinic, where she received assistance forming West Grove Soaps LLC. With SBDC guidance, she then developed a business brief to support her application for the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program, which resulted in West Grove Soaps receiving a $2,000 grant. These funds gave her the capital to purchase new supplies to better market her operations.

Today, Kathleen and the SBDC are building on that success by developing a comprehensive business plan to position West Grove Soaps LLC for additional financing. The plan will support future investments in larger production equipment and a dedicated workspace, allowing Kathleen to increase production while maintaining the handcrafted quality that has become the hallmark of her brand. As West Grove Soaps LLC continues to expand its product line and customer base, Kathleen remains committed to the values that inspired her to begin making soap: quality ingredients, transparency, and products made with care. What began as a creative hobby has become a growing business with a clear vision for the future. With continued planning and the right resources in place, West Grove Soaps LLC is well positioned to continue serving customers throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania while staying true to the craftsmanship that first earned their trust.