A one-on-one approach to startup support: An introduction to the coaches at the heart of Startup Alleghenies
At the core of Startup Alleghenies are entrepreneurial coaches who work one-on-one with startups and small emerging businesses—whether the idea is only on paper or already in the works. The coaches work with residents of Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset counties to jumpstart new ideas in the Alleghenies region. Whether you need a business plan, capital, marketing, physical space or other resources, they’ll be at your side every step of the way!
Bedford
Jen Marsh is the coach for Bedford County residents with years of business experience under her belt. She has a well-rounded background in a variety of business sectors, from hospitality to outdoor construction sales, to health care administration for the largest health care system in western Maryland. “I strive to make a difference in the lives of others and always try to be the best version of myself.”
Jen is passionate about the Alleghenies region, and she loves the beautiful mountain landscape, recreational activities, and top-notch food scene.
“Community is key and I love surrounding myself with positive people who aren’t afraid to grow, change and take risks. I look forward to working to help make your entrepreneurial dreams become a reality in beautiful Bedford County.”
Interested in starting a business in Bedford County? Contact Jen Marsh via email (jmarsh@bcda.org) or phone (814-623-4816).
Blair
Matthew Fox is your Blair County coach! Entrepreneurship has been an integral part of Matt’s life since he was a child, and his experience with smaller companies has led him to be involved with many facets of a business.
Growing up his father started his own picture framing business in a spare room in their home and named his venture Fox Framing. “Every day we answered the phone, ‘Fox Framing headquarters, how may we help you,’ which gave all of our friends and family a good laugh, but it instilled in me at a young age what professionalism and hard work meant.”
While he is not a native of Blair County, he has been a resident for over fifteen years and he cannot think of a better place to live! “I am passionate about seeing all companies regardless of size thrive here in Blair County and the entire region.”
Looking for guidance for your startup in Blair County? Contact Matt Fox via email (mattf@abcdcorp.org) or phone (814-944-6113).
Cambria
Blake Fleegle is the Cambria County coach and is excited to help startups and entrepreneurs with their business needs! Blake runs a successful theatre and cafe business in Johnstown with two locations. He had dreamed of running his own movie theatre from adolescence, but what was once a retirement fantasy turned into reality when he bought Westwood Plaza Theatre & Café in June of 2009.
“Running a business is fun, fast-paced, and very rewarding. I love every minute of it and want to share that feeling with local entrepreneurs who want to make their dreams come true as well.”
Blake has his degree in business from Duquesne University and has years of relevant entrepreneurship experience to help you and your startup thrive. “Whether you have an idea just starting to germinate in your mind or you already have a business that is running into headwinds, and everyone in-between, reach out and let’s work together!”
Need navigation for your Cambria County startup? Contact Blake Fleegle via email (bfleegle@jari.com) or phone (814-254-4023).
Huntingdon & Fulton
Christa McGeary is the coach for residents of Huntingdon and Fulton Counties. She is a native of Huntingdon County and likes to say that she was born with entrepreneurial blood – her family has three generations of startups that lit her passion for business.
While at Penn State, Christa was part of the inaugural class of the Sheetz Fellows Program. “My tenure in the Sheetz Fellows program provided me with considerable education and several experiences to help me excel in any business venture.” In addition, she spent time studying abroad and opened her own business in Huntingdon at the age of 22.
Now Christa is the mom of two girls and is excited to pursue her passion of helping others and stimulating small businesses. “There is nothing better than seeing dreams ignite into amazing business ventures. So whether the idea just popped into your head, you’re midway through the process, you’re almost done, or you’re ready to scream… reach out to me! I cannot wait to be here and help you through every dimension of building your dream, right here in Central PA.”
Hoping to open a business in Fulton or Huntingdon County? Contact Christa McGeary via email (cmcgeary@hcbi.com) or phone (814-506-8287).
Somerset
Matt Reckner is the coach for Somerset County and a lifelong resident (and proponent) of the area. “I believe Somerset County is a great place to live, work, and play. There is so much potential here for businesses. Entrepreneurs just need the right guidance and tools to make their dreams and ideas come to be.”
His background consists of over ten years in retail management, another two years in banking management and for the last five years, selling business solutions to small businesses. “I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit, whether it be running the retail store like it was my own business or helping businesses through banking and business solutions to help them thrive.”
Most recently Matt started his own business that he continues to be a part of, so he knows all about the struggles of searching for the right information and tools to use while starting a business. “That is where I come to be your guide along this roller coaster journey of starting and running your own business. So whether it’s just an idea that you would like to evaluate or you already have a business that you would like to grow, reach out to me, and we will start this journey together.”
Aspiring to achieve success with your startup in Somerset County? Contact Matt Reckner via email (startup@co.somerset.pa.us) or phone (814) 445-1400 ext. 1569).
