SBA Helps Entrepreneur Brew Up Coffee Breaks

Spring Church resident and coffee drinker Lisa Feeney unexpectedly created something special for her small town.

“I never intended to start my own business,” she explained. “I stumbled upon some online tutorials for making espresso-based drinks, became very intrigued and started learning more and more each day.”

She experimented at home, purchasing a machine and practicing the science of pulling shots.

With the help of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and our partners, the PennWest Clarion University Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Feeney was able to turn her espresso enthusiasm into small business ownership.

It was a stretch for the entrepreneur who had never visited a coffee shop or sipped a boutique brew. She worked weekly with a counselor – defining her vision and goals – and started small, using a handcrafted, mobile coffee cart.

“I served at private and public events -- everything from weddings and showers to schools – and created a following…serving my drinks at a winery a few mornings each week,” she added. “A loyal customer who owns a local car wash thought his lot would make a good location for a drive-thru business and that’s how Feeney’s Coffee Spot was created.”

She joins millions of Americans using SBA assistance and turning ideas into fruition -- becoming their own boss and sharing talents with the community.

For Feeney and her husband, the coffee spot brought excitement and exhaustion into their lives.

“The spot is an 8-by-12 Amish-built shed with a window at drive-thru height,” she said. “I painted while my husband ran electrical, added drywall, shelving and countertops. Best of all, we grew in pieces, avoiding the pitfalls of overextending ourselves.”

Entrepreneurs like Feeney work with counselors at PennWest Clarion and Saint Vincent College SBDCs or the Penn State Corner Launchbox – tasked with providing that much-needed professional support. “I’ve met so many new friends,” Feeney stated. “It can be exhausting, and you really need all the free support and encouragement you can get.”

The SBA will be hosting informative in-person events and talking with entrepreneurs throughout the area -- all designed to help individuals confidently explore small business ownership. You’ll hear from subject matter experts, coaches and successful small business owners who have been in your shoes.

Small businesses create a sense of pride and place in every community. New business starts stir excitement and create a ripple effect. Our resource partner teams are on the ground ensuring entrepreneurs and established small businesses have the tools to succeed.

They’re creating those key connections with important partners – lenders, chambers and economic development agencies – all working together to provide resources, including funding to small businesses owners.

Feeney’s business is perking. She’s added breakfast sandwiches, big, buttery pretzels and baked goods. “The spot was for our little community…something for us to fall in love with and embrace.”.