Nearly 2,000 free counseling hours and a growing e-commerce platform for entrepreneurs
Contact: Jodie Dello Stritto, jodie@affinityconnection.com; (814) 933-2463
Startup Alleghenies 2023 Review:
Nearly 2,000 free counseling hours and a growing e-commerce platform for entrepreneurs
December 13, 2023 – During 2023, Startup Alleghenies’ five coaches provided direct, one-on-one business counseling to 1,265 clients—aspiring entrepreneurs and emerging small businesses—a total of 1,800 free counseling hours, not including time for travel, research, meeting preparation, and administrative responsibilities. In addition to direct support, coaches connect clients with other relevant and helpful resources across the region. Coaching is available in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset counties.
This year Startup Alleghenies also celebrated the launch of the Alleghenies Marketplace, an e-commerce platform built exclusively for entrepreneurs and small businesses in the six counties of the Alleghenies. Merchants join the platform at no cost and take advantage of support from a Startup Alleghenies coach as well as affordable transaction fees.
More than 70 merchants have signed on, with new stores added nearly every week. Shoppers can find apparel; original artwork; candy, sauces, and other food items; jewelry and accessories, soaps, lotions, and beauty and wellness products; home décor; and other unique products made or curated in the Alleghenies, available online. Several merchants also offer gift cards for their brick-and-mortar locations or experiences like axe-throwing and DIY craft studio sessions.
“Shoppers are used to the variety and convenience of online shopping through Amazon, Etsy, and individual retailers. The Alleghenies Marketplace offers a venue for local merchants to offer online sales, utilizing more affordable rates and a built-in marketing program,” said Cambria County Coach Blake Fleegle.
“Supporting local small businesses makes a difference in our communities,” said Somerset County Coach Matt Reckner. “The Alleghenies Marketplace is just another way for residents and visitors to be part of the ‘buy local’ movement and keep their dollars in our local economy.”
Startup Alleghenies helps aspiring entrepreneurs and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching and a network of powerful resources in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. Coaching is free thanks to the support of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Small Business Administration (SBA), and our partners.
The Alleghenies Marketplace is supported by Startup Alleghenies, the PA Department of Economic & Community Development, and the Appalachian Regional Commission. Startup Alleghenies helps aspiring entrepreneurs and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching and a network of powerful resources in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. Coaching is free thanks to the support of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), Small Business Administration (SBA), and other partners.
###
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.
