Empowering Your Vision with Expert Insights.
Welcome to Our Entrepreneur Built Hub!
This website is a living, evolving resource, built by and for the entrepreneurs of the Juniata River Valley. We are in the exciting early stages of building our digital library of stories, tools, and connections. Please explore what we have so far, check back often for new updates, and consider sharing your own expertise. Together, we can build the ultimate toolkit for local business success.
Reedsville Takeover - 2025
Where do I even start? I feel like I’m doing this all alone
That feeling is completely normal, but the great news is you are not alone. The most powerful first step you can take is to connect with others who are on the same path. Our community is built on peer support, and finding your people is the best way to build momentum.
How can I get funding for my idea without going to a big bank?
Securing capital can feel like the biggest hurdle, but many local and state resources are specifically designed to support new businesses in communities like ours. The key isn’t just having a great idea; it’s knowing where to find the partners who want to invest in local growth. This often starts with a solid financial plan.
How do I find enough customers in a small town?
Your local community is your foundation, but a smart digital presence can open your business to the region and the world. Think of your marketing and web design as your digital storefront, inviting customers in from near and far.
What’s the first legal step I need to take to be a ‘real’ business?
Understanding the right legal structure for your business is a crucial first step that protects you and sets you up for future success. Getting this right from the start is one of the smartest things you can do and saves countless headaches later.
I’m an expert at my craft, but not at business. How do I manage it all?
This is the classic entrepreneur’s challenge! The solution is to create a clear roadmap. A well-thought-out business plan helps you build simple systems for the tasks outside your expertise, freeing you up to focus on what you do best.
How much should I charge? I don’t want to overcharge my neighbors.
Pricing is about confidence. That confidence comes from understanding your numbers, knowing the value you provide, and having a clear picture of your financial health, including your profit margins. When you know your numbers, you can set prices that are both fair and profitable.
Who can I turn to for trusted advice when I get stuck?
Finding a mentor or a trusted advisor can be a game-changer. Our community is full of experienced professionals—from graphic designers to HR consultants—who are willing to share their knowledge. You just have to know who to ask.
Do I really need a professional logo and photos right away?
In today’s world, your visual brand is your first impression. Professional photography and graphic design build immediate trust and signal quality to potential customers, helping you stand out before they even walk through your door.
When is the right time to hire my first employee?
Hiring is a major step that signals growth. The right time is often when you have clear, repeatable systems that someone else can follow. Understanding the basics of HR and hiring will help you make that decision with confidence.
How do I stay motivated when things get tough?
Every entrepreneur faces setbacks. Staying connected to a community that celebrates wins, shares struggles, and offers encouragement is the key to maintaining resilience. Drawing inspiration from the success stories of your peers is a powerful way to refuel your passion.
Find the Support You Need
Professional Directory
Connect with trusted local professionals and service providers who are active members of our entrepreneurial community.
Organization Resources
Access a curated list of direct links to key partners like the Chamber of Commerce, SBDC, and LaunchBox.
Downloadable Resources
Jumpstart your projects with a free library of practical business plan templates, marketing checklists, and guides.
Connect, Learn, & Grow: Our Events Calendar
Never miss a chance to connect. Here you’ll find a schedule for all upcoming Entrepreneur Meetups and other essential business events in our community. Mark your calendar and join us to share, learn, and grow together.
Mission
Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs in the Juniata River Valley by providing a central digital hub that connects them to essential resources, inspiring stories, and a supportive peer community.
success story
Forging a New Path: The Chapel Hill Forge Story
Not every business starts with a perfect plan. For the Leggett family of Chapel Hill Forge, it started with a leap of faith. Their story is all about resilience, family, and what can happen when you build a life on your own terms, especially when you find the right community to back you up.
It all kicked off in 2016 when Zad’s job as a State Constable was restructured. Instead of looking for another job, they decided to bet on themselves. Zad started the business right from their home, using his skills as a former farrier, while Mandy kept her full-time job. They were truly living on a wing and a prayer, making small batches of metal and leather jewelry. A year later, Mandy left her job to go all-in on Chapel Hill Forge and homeschooling.
testimonials
From the Heart of the Juniata River Valley's Entrepreneurs.
Joshua M.
There's an incredible, positive energy at every single one of these events. It doesn't matter if it's a small meetup or a larger workshop; you always leave feeling recharged and inspired.
Mike B.
It is refreshing to see the younger generations so engaged and excited about their businesses
Entrepreneur
What stands out is the complete lack of competitive guarding. Businesses here actively root for one another, creating a rare and powerful culture of mutual success that lifts the entire community.
Jonathan J.
The biggest thing I’ve noticed in our local group of entrepreneurs, networking events, and training sessions is how much everyone genuinely understands that we need each other to succeed. The willingness to help one another—even direct competitors is incredible. It feels unique to this area, and it’s what causes all boats to rise. Everyone truly wants to see not just individual businesses thrive, but the entire community grow alongside them.
McKenna & Madi
The local community of entrepreneurs are our biggest cheerleaders. They know what it takes to build a business themselves, and they are constantly there to show support for us in any way possible.
Mandy
his group has allowed me to connect with other business owners, as well as grow our own business. It is challenging to move from where you lived for 35+ years and start all over, but having this group of motivated and helpful business owners to connect with has made a huge difference.
Community Stakeholders
