HUBZone Maps Have Been Updated

Somerset County in its entirety was added to the Small Business Administration HUBZone program with the release of the Qualified Non-metropolitan County (QNMC) unemployment data at the beginning of August. The online interactive map has just been updated to reflect that change. Businesses located in Somerset County who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply for the program if interested or are currently doing business with the Federal Government.

If you would like to learn more about the HUBZone Program or have any other government contracting needs, please contact us at (814) 254-4022 or (814) 254-4023 or via email at .

First JARI Microloan Client Funded in Bedford County

JARI and the Bedford County Development Association (BCDA) are pleased to announce the first Microloan funded business in Bedford County. I.D. Graphics, a professional graphic design firm owned and operated by Corey and Monica Meckes, offers innovative design ideas and an affordable printing solution for any promotional need.

Bette Slayton, BCDA President, has been working with JARI to provide Microloan funding to the Bedford County business. “We’re excited to have this flexible new loan program now available in Bedford County. It’s an excellent program that will fill an important niche. Businesses will now be able to access microloans up to $50,000 and have experienced business coaching throughout the term of the loan. We look forward to marketing it across the county,” said Slayton. According to Linda Thomson, President, JARI, “JARI is very excited to be working with a home-grown small business in Bedford County and is hoping to assist more businesses over time.”

If you would like more information on the JARI Microloan Program, please contact Michele Clapper at (814) 262-8368 or via email at .

JARI/SBA Host Power Hour Session: Starting a Business


JARI, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Saint Francis University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will host their first Power Hour session titled Starting a Business. If you have always wanted to open your own business now is your chance to learn the basics of small business ownership in just 60 minutes. This session will cover the various topics that a startup company or expanding business should know. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with our team.

This session will take place on Thursday, October 5, from 9 to 10 AM at the JARI Center for Business Development (160 Jari Drive, Johnstown). The cost to attend is free but registration is required. If you are interested in attending click here to register.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact us at (814) 254-4023.

From Defense to Offense – Sales Training

The SAP&DC, along with regional economic development partners and the support of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, have received a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA) grant to assist defense contractor’s transition into new markets. There will be a two part training series available to eligible businesses at no cost if company representatives successfully complete the training. Please note – there is a cost to purchase the materials. Part 1: Building the Sales Infrastructure will be held Wednesday, October 11, 2017 and Part 2: Hiring a Sales Superstar will be held Wednesday, October 18, 2017.  Both sessions will be held in two locations – Johnstown (In Person Instructor) and Altoona (Live Streaming Broadcast). Please see the attached flyer and registration forms to learn more about this two part training series presented by John Moore of Moore Power Sales.

If you have questions or would like government contracting assistance, contact us at (814) 254-4022 or (814) 254-4023 or via email at .

Facebook for Business: Taking a Closer Look

Thursday, October 5th, Shelley Johansson, Prime Design Solutions, will present an in-depth seminar on Facebook for small businesses. Attendees will learn what and when to post, ways to boost engagement and reach a larger audience, how to effectively advertise on Facebook, the power of Facebook events and much more.

This Lunch & Learn will be held at JARI Center (160 Jari Drive, Johnstown, PA) from 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM. The registration is required at $5 per person and lunch will be provided.  Please register by October 3rd. No shows on the day of the event will be billed.

For more information and to register, click here.