PennWest Clarion SBDC

05/27/2026

Thinking about starting your own business?
Join us for First Step: Starting a Small Business in Pennsylvania
📅 Tuesday, June 2, 2026
⏰ 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
💻 Hybrid Event

In-person location:
PennWest University Clarion
14 A/B Suites on Main South
896 East Main Street, Clarion, PA 16214

Register: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/33028

These monthly seminars provide an overview on the
steps to start a business along with an in-depth look at
a business plan. Topics include business registrations,
licenses, business structures, taxation, research tools,
and what to expect in financing your business.

05/20/2026

Our latest newsletter is here! Take a look at what’s happening in our region, including upcoming events, client highlights, small business resources, and important updates. We’re proud to continue supporting local entrepreneurs and sharing opportunities that help our communities grow.

Read the full newsletter here: https://conta.cc/4eYd7iy

Email from PennWest Clarion SBDC --NEW INFORMATION May 15, 2026   ----------------------------------------------------------- Credit Counseling Cohort Program ----------------------------------------

05/19/2026

💼 Got tax questions for your
business? We’ve got answers!

Join Corry Riley, PennWest Clarion SBDC Business
Consultant, for our FREE monthly Tax Talk designed to
give entrepreneurs and small business owners clarity
and confidence on tax topics.

🗓 Wednesday, May 27, 2026
⏰ 11:00 a.m.
💻 Live via Zoom

Register: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/33192

Here’s what you can expect:
✔️ A quick 15-minute breakdown of a key tax topic
✔️ 45 minutes of open Q&A—ask anything!

From write-offs and credits to hiring, sales tax, and
recordkeeping—no question is too simple. Come ready
to learn, ask, and grow your business with confidence!

This session is offered at no cost. Advice shared
reflects professional judgment based on current tax
law.

05/15/2026

Contact us for assistance with the Patriot Pitch Competition.

Announcing the Patriot Pitch Competition 🎤🇺🇸

SBA is launching a national competition to highlight small businesses that represent the BEST of American innovation, with a $1 MILLON cash prize pool funded by Clover.

http://www.sba.gov/freedom250

05/12/2026

Thinking about starting your own business?
Join us for First Step: Starting a Small Business in Pennsylvania
📅 Thursday, May 21, 2026
⏰ 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
💻 Online Webinar

Register: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/33038

These monthly seminars provide an overview on the steps to start a business along with an in-depth look at a business plan. Topics include business registrations, licenses, business structures, taxation, research tools, and what to expect in financing your business.

05/09/2026

It’s National Small Business Week, and we’re proud to highlight entrepreneurs like Esperanzo “Espo” Wilcox, founder of PA Mushroom Company right here in Clarion County! 🍄

What started as a personal passion for mushrooms and the outdoors has grown into a thriving business rooted in education, sustainability, and community. From foraging in the PA Wilds to supplying local restaurants and hosting hands-on events, Espo has created something truly unique.

With support from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Espo was able to turn his ideas into action—securing grant funding, expanding operations, and continuing to grow his business year after year. As he shared, “Working with the SBDC has helped us reach milestones we didn’t even know existed.”

Visit their website: https://pamushroom.com/

Stories like this show how powerful passion and the right support can be.

05/07/2026

It’s National Small Business Week, and we’re excited to spotlight entrepreneurs like Dave Zawatski and Timothy Johnson, owners of The Crow’s Nest in Ridgway, PA! ⛳

What started as a shared love for golf turned into something much bigger—a space where people can come together, play, and connect year-round. After taking on the challenge of renovating an older building, Dave and Tim brought their vision to life with a state-of-the-art golf simulator business right in downtown Ridgway.

With support from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, they were able to navigate the startup process and confidently move toward opening their doors. Since then, the community response has been strong—so much so that they’ve already expanded with a second simulator!

As they shared, “We thank you for your help. We look forward to working with your team in the future.”

Visit their webpage: https://www.crowsnest211.com/

Stories like this show what’s possible when passion meets perseverance—and why small businesses play such an important role in our communities.

05/05/2026

It’s National Small Business Week, and we’re excited to highlight entrepreneurs like Kimberly Holeva, owner of Violet Mist Perfumery in Punxsutawney, PA! ✨💜

Kimberly brought something new and special to her community—a boutique perfumery where customers can create their own custom scents and enjoy a personalized, hands-on experience. Since opening her doors, the support has been amazing and a great reminder of how much small businesses mean to our towns.

With guidance from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Kimberly felt confident taking that leap and bringing her vision to life. As she shared, “Their support empowered me to move forward with my business… I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Stories like Kimberly’s are what this week is all about—celebrating the passion and creativity behind small businesses.

05/03/2026

It’s National Small Business Week, and we’re proud to celebrate incredible entrepreneurs like Julie Satterfield of Patches Quilt and Fiber Shop in Kittanning, PA! 🧵✨

Julie turned her love for quilting and fiber arts into a space where people can come together, create, and connect. Since opening her shop in March, the community has shown incredible support—proving just how special small businesses like hers really are.

With guidance from the PennWest Clarion SBDC, Julie was able to bring her vision to life and build a strong foundation for her business. As she shared, “My experience working with the SBDC has helped me feel supported and like I could succeed.”

Join us this week in celebrating small business owners who are making a difference in our communities every day. 💼

05/01/2026

Join us for 2026 PA Tax Series: Getting Started with myPATH!

📅 May 13, 2026
⏰ 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
💻 Free Online Meeting (Live)

🔗 Register here: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/33049

Learn how to create your account, access personal and business profiles, and navigate key features of the Department of Revenue’s myPATH portal.

👉 Perfect for new and existing business owners looking to simplify their tax process.

04/30/2026

Thinking about starting your own business?
Join us for First Step: Starting a Small Business in Pennsylvania

📅 Tuesday, May 5, 2026
⏰ 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
💻 Hybrid Event
📍In Person Location:
PennWest University Clarion
14 A/B Suites on Main South
896 East Main Street, Clarion, PA 16214

Register: https://pasbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/33027

These monthly seminars provide an overview on the steps to start a business along with an in-depth look at a business plan. Topics include business registrations, licenses, business structures, taxation, research tools, and what to expect in financing your business.