Seeking businesses for Alleghenies Marketplace launching July 19

A brand new way for small businesses in the Alleghenies to increase their sales is about to emerge. Calling all merchants! Get on board now, in time for the launch of the Alleghenies Marketplace on July 19. Here’s how it works.

Alleghenies Marketplace is a new online sales platform that is built exclusively for small businesses in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset Counties. It’s tailor-made to help connect merchants with their ideal buyer and it’s absolutely free to join.

AllegheniesMarketplace.com is an e-commerce platform like Etsy or eBay, with one key difference. It’s built exclusively for small businesses here in the Alleghenies and is 100% local — and it features robust marketing to reach the best customers and prospects. Best of all, listing is completely free and transaction fees are a fraction of the amount found on Amazon, Etsy or eBay!

Alleghenies Marketplace is a great way for small businesses in our area to offer products and experiences that are just as unique as our region.

“Alleghenies Marketplace is a great way for small businesses in our area to offer products and experiences that are just as unique as our region,” Debbi Prosser, Director of Business Development for the Southern Alleghenies Planning & Development Commission, said.

The platform is funded by Startup Alleghenies with assistance from the Appalachia Regional Commission and the PA Department of Community & Economic Development and includes:

• Robust marketing through billboards, newspaper ads, radio time, publications, social media, events (and so much more).
• Low processing fees. Alleghenies Marketplace has negotiated for special credit card processing fees of only 6% of each final sale (45% less than Amazon, 26% less than Etsey and 40% less than eBay). Half of the processing fee goes back into the marketing budget to promote further sales.
• Free posting assistance. Startup Alleghenies coaches and tech experts help entrepreneurs post products quickly so they can begin selling.

“As part of Alleghenies Marketplace, local entrepreneurs will have their products promoted in local newspaper and radio ads, social media and so much more — all free of charge,” Prosser added. “It’s an exciting collaboration that showcases the products and experiences that are offered within our region.”

Click here to register your Alleghenies Marketplace account.

Join now to be part of the upcoming e-commerce workshop and Alleghenies Marketplace Grand Opening Celebration.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.