Top of the list:

Cornerstone Coffeehouse in Camp Hill, Cumberland County, PA, which has closed one SBA 504 loan with Seedcopa and Orrstown Bank and is approved for yet another, after a referral from the Capital Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC).

Spouses Caleb Watters and Alexandra Shover purchased the charming shop, which had been open for 25 years on 2131 Market Street, after the previous operators decided to retire.

Watters, who owns two other restaurants in Hershey and Enola, was also a Dunkin Donuts franchisee for 12 years and has partnered with his trusted operations manager, Justine Welling, who has been with him for more than a decade. His next SBA 504 loan with Seedcopa is yet another restaurant, to be revealed!

Also worth visiting & supporting this summer:

Island Pizza
Birdsboro, Berks County, PA

Tikka Shack
Hershey, Dauphin County, PA

Dressler Estate
Downingtown, Chester County, PA

Blue Marsh
Bernville, Berks County, PA

Assante Italian Market
Allentown, Lehigh County, PA

Schell’s
Temple, Berks County, PA

Teikoku
Newtown Square, Delaware County, PA

Buona Via Ristorante
Horsham, Montgomery County, PA

Wycombe Tavern & Grille
Upper Makefield, Bucks County, PA

Kutztown Tavern
Kutztown, Berks County, PA

Plum Creek Farm Market & Creamery
Bernville, Berks County, PA

Mont Clare Deli & Market
Mont Clare, Montgomery County, PA

The Tomato Shack
Manayunk & West Chester, PA

Casa Carmen
West Grove, Chester County, PA

La Michoacana
Kennett Square, Chester County, PA

Hung Vuong Food Market
Newark, New Castle County, DE

Go Fish
Reading, Berks County, PA

Photos courtesy Cornerstone Coffeehouse

1. How did you get your start in government-backed lending?

Government-backed lending found me. After meeting Chester County Economic Development Council President Michael Grigalonis and staying connected over the years, he reached out to discuss the open Portfolio and Compliance Specialist position with Seedcopa. It was an unexpected proposition because my background had been focused on corporate accounting and finance. Looking back, accepting that opportunity was one of the best professional decisions I’ve made. Everything I’ve learned throughout my career has complemented and strengthened my ability to serve borrowers, analyze complex financial situations, and navigate the regulatory requirements that come with government-backed lending.

2. What has been your favorite project so far?

I don’t think I have one favorite project. What I’ve discovered is that I genuinely enjoy working with loans that are at risk. There’s something incredibly rewarding about analyzing complex situations, identifying solutions, and balancing regulatory requirements with the borrower’s best path forward. Every distressed loan presents a unique challenge, and I enjoy finding practical strategies that create the best possible outcome for everyone involved.

3. What has been the most unique project you’ve worked on?

Two projects stand out.

The first was a 7(a) liquidation that required completing a complex SBA 7(a) Guaranty Purchase Package. I found the situation fascinating because it involved a startup business that failed within its first year of operations, providing valuable insight into the many factors. It was also eye-opening to see that, in some cases, the cost of repossessing, transporting, and auctioning business assets can exceed the proceeds received from their sale.

The second was a 504 liquidation that required developing multiple strategies to facilitate the sale of the borrower’s commercial property while coordinating with several stakeholders, including the private lender, the SBA, and CCEDC. It was a complex negotiation that required balancing the interests of all parties while helping the borrower achieve the best possible resolution.

4. What’s your favorite part about the job?

I enjoy the constantly changing nature of the work. Every day brings new challenges, complex problems to solve, and opportunities to learn. I also have the privilege of working alongside an outstanding team. Most rewarding of all is knowing that, at the end of the day, I’ve been able to help a borrower navigate a difficult situation and move one step closer to a solution.

5. Tell us about your Philadelphia-area roots.

I was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and spent my childhood between Puerto Rico and the Philadelphia area because my older sibling lived in Philadelphia. Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to experience both cultures and attend school in both places from elementary school through high school.

Philadelphia has always held a special place in my heart. It’s where I had my first professional job, built lifelong friendships, and developed many of the experiences that shaped who I am today. While Puerto Rico will always be home, Philadelphia has become my second home, and I’ll always have a deep appreciation for the city and its people.

6. Anything you’d like to share about your family and/or personal passions?

I’m the ninth of nine children, so family has always been at the center of my life. My partner Henry is my best friend since childhood in Puerto Rico. I’m a proud mother of four wonderful children: Christian (35), Anastasia (27), Nilsa (26), and Matthew (25). I also have a stepdaughter, Yleiram (25), whom I love as my own.

I’m also blessed with three beautiful granddaughters: Mila (10), Elena (6), and Stella (1). Our family reflects a wonderful blend of cultures, and I cherish the diversity and traditions that come with it. I’m very close to my nieces, nephews, and their children, and maintaining strong family connections is something I value deeply.

Outside of work, I’m passionate about lifelong learning, affordable housing initiatives, and Toastmasters. Toastmasters has been an incredible outlet for developing my public speaking, communication, and leadership skills, while also allowing me to encourage others on their own growth journeys.

7. What’s your top tip for lenders and borrowers?

Treat the relationship as a partnership—not just during the loan origination process, but throughout the entire life of the loan. Open communication is essential. The SBA offers a variety of tools and programs designed to help borrowers facing financial challenges, but many people don’t realize those options exist until it’s too late. The sooner borrowers communicate with their lender, the more opportunities there are to develop solutions that can benefit everyone involved.

But there’s no “fall on the pitch” at Stand Strong Training Center in Downingtown, Chester County – only the will to get back up.

In September 2014, former Division I third baseman and two-sport, all-state high school athlete Matthew Helm was in a kayaking accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors gave him little hope that he would ever walk again, but after two months in the hospital, he devoted himself to outpatient rehabilitation until insurance coverage ran out. That’s when Matthew and his wife Lindsay fully realized the immense void for individuals experiencing life-altering injuries to continue with their recovery, health and fitness.

As lifelong athletes, they developed a passion for adaptive strength training and formed Stand Strong Training Inc. in 2017, as a Subchapter S-corporation. Six years later, as the lease on their existing space was nearing expiration, they purchased a property on Bell Tavern Boulevard where they could gain 1,000 square feet of additional class, strength training and coaching space at a high-profile location. But how to pay for it?

Partnering with First Resource Bank and Seedcopa, Lindsay learned that as the majority owner, she would be an ideal candidate for the SBA’s public policy goal of expanding women-owned businesses. A graduate of Cornell University where she rowed on Division I crew and went on to earn two masters degrees from the University of Pennsylvania, she was already a life-long athlete who trained coaches around the world in Academic Life Coaching, Wellness Coaching, and Mindset Coaching, as well as a coach for the SEAL Future Foundation. Now she’s a business owner with a below-market interest rate on financing. That’s a win in everybody’s book.

Today, Stand Strong Training Center not only provides customized, one-on-one adaptive athlete training, it also assists with adult fitness and weight loss as well as age-appropriate, comprehensive student athlete training programs.

“Purchasing a building and navigating SBA financing is no small task, but Seedcopa made the process feel clear and manageable,” said Stand Strong owner Lindsay Helm. “They were responsive, patient and thorough every step of the way, and we always felt supported when questions came up.”

June 2026

Funeral Home
Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,820,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $393,000
Used to: Refinance with cash out ofe commercial real estate
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank, a division of QNB Bank

Daycare Center
Allentown, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,660,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $685,000
Used for: Purchase and minor improvement of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: First Keystone Community Bank

May 2026

Hotel
Lancaster, Lancaster County, PA
Total Project Amount: $6,120,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,989,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Citadel Credit Union

Daycare Center
Carlisle, Cumberland County, PA
Total Project Amount: $4,977,085
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,904,000
Used for: Ground up construction and equipment
Lending Partner: Univest

Outpatient Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center
Media, Delaware County, PA
Total Project Amount: $902,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $377,000
Used for: Purchase and minor improvement of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: First Resource Bank

April 2026

Medical Device Manufacturer
Pottstown, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,930,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $796,000
Used to: Purchase and improve commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Diamond Credit Union

Office Furniture Wholesaler
King of Prussia, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $690,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $289,000
Used to: Purchase and improve commercial real estate
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

Laundromat & Carwash
Reading, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $630,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $200,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Mid Penn Bank

March 2026

Stone Fabrication Company
Norristown, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,430,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $555,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank

Stone Fabrication Company
Norristown, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,950,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $601,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank

Hotel
Denver, Lancaster County, PA
Total Project Amount: $6,482,581
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,059,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: ServBank

February 2026

Crane Rental Company
Allentown, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,846,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,170,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Childcare Facility
Harrisburg, Dauphin County, PA
Total Project Amount: $4,632,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,900,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Link Bank

Gym/Fitness Center
Downingtown, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,542,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $637,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: First Resource Bank

January 2026

Hotel
Huntingdon, Huntingdon County, PA
Total Project Amount: $5,721,800
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $2,053,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Kish Bank

Hotel
Duncansville, Blair County, PA
Total Project Amount: $5,520,400
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,981,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Kish Bank

Hotel
Altoona, Blair County, PA
Total Project Amount: $3,886,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,198,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Kish Bank

Restaurant/bar/brewery
Kutztown, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $3,912,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,606,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Discovery FCU

December 2025

Specialty Equipment Manufacturer
Stoneboro, Mercer County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,100,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $400,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Choice One

Auto Repair Facility
Kennett Square, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $812,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $338,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Univest

October 2025

Full-Service Restaurant & Brewery
Exton, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,750,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,131,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate & equipment
Lending Partner: First Resource Bank

September 2025

Insurance Agency
Hershey, Dauphin County, PA
Total Project Amount: $975,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $405,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Orrstown Bank

August 2025

Two Loans for Waterfront Product Engineer & Manufacturer
Fleetwood, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,216,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $504,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Total Project Amount: $828,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $345,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Full-Service Restaurant
Wycombe, Bucks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,540,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $636,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

Smoothie & Acai Bowl Shop
West Chester, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,764,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $728,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building to expand to additional facility
Lending Partner: Grasshopper Bank

June 2025

Two Loans for Boutique Hotel
Philadelphia, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,822,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $658,000
Used to: Purchase commercial real estate with change of ownership
Lending Partner: WSFS

Total Project Amount: $1,806,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $653,000
Used to: Purchase commercial real estate with change of ownership
Lending Partner: WSFS

Restaurant & Ice Cream Shop/Mini Golf
Temple, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,842,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $666,000
Used to: Purchase commercial real estate with change of ownership
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

May 2025

Coffee Shop and Cafe
Camp Hill, Cumberland County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,236,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $921,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Orrstown Bank

April 2025

Winery & Cider House
Downingtown, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $850,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $351,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building & relocate facility
Lending Partner: Mid Penn Bank

Bed & Breakfast
Wernersville, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,700,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $613,000
Used to: Refinance with expansion
Lending Partner: WSFS

Law Firm
Yardley, Bucks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $964,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $401,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building & relocate facility
Lending Partner: WSFS

Birthing Center
Reading, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $466,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $195,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Customers Bank

March 2025

Concrete & Demolition Services
Havertown, Delaware County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,155,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $888,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Storage Facilities Company
Greencastle, Franklin County, PA
Total Project Amount: $7,000,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $2,880,000
Used to: Refinance with expansion
Lending Partner: ACNB Bank

HVAC Services
Exton, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $4,378,400
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,796,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

February 2025

Architect
Wyomissing, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $940,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $327,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building & relocate facility
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

January 2025

Salon and Spa
Newtown Square, Delaware County, PA
Total Project Amount: $4,690,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,922,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building to expand & relocate facility
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Home Remodeling Company
Newark, New Castle County, DE
Total Project Amount: $2,700,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,108,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Impact 504 Fund

Fitness Center/Gym
Ardmore, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,576,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,063,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate building to expand & relocate facility
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Italian Market & Cheese Manufacturer
Allentown, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,171,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $486,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

December 2024

Vinyl Record Manufacturer
Coatesville, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,980,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,057,000
Used to: Purchase building to expand & relocate facility
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

Storage Facility
Hamburg, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,605,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $567,000
Used to: Expand existing facility
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

Digital Marketing Services
Montgomeryville, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,444,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $597,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: LINKBANK

Events Company and Studio
Bethlehem, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $724,306
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $301,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

NOVEMBER 2024

Full-Service Restaurant
Horsham, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,856,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $765,000
Used to: Purchase commercial real estate with change of ownership
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Roofing Product Manufacturer
Reading, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,436,800
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $511,000
Used to: Partner buyout of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Customers Bank

October 2024

Medical & Aerospace Device Manufacturer
Hatboro, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $15,321,878
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $5,138,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Franchise Restaurant
Hershey, Dauphin County, PA
Total Project Amount: $2,114,816
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $620,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

September 2024

Home Healthcare Service Provider
Philadelphia, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,338,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $552,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Univest

Metal Fabrication Company
Northampton, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,546,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $558,000
Used to: Purchase building in change of ownership
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

August 2024

Mental Health Practitioners
Wyomissing, Berks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,020,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $422,000
Used to: Purchase building to expand & relocate facility
Lending Partner: Community First Fund Credit Union

July 2024

Office Construction & Installation Services
Phoenixville, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,286,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $531,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

June 2024

Asian Supermarket
Newark, New Castle County, DE
Total Project Amount: $10,932,917
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $3,964,000
Used to: Purchase/renovate commercial property & FFE to expand to additional facility
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Dental Surgery Center
New Hope, Bucks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $3,716,225
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,524,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate and equipment
Lending Partner: Penn Community Bank

May 2024

Veterinary Services
Fleetwood, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $3,000,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,237,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Mid Penn Bank

Counseling Services
Wyomissing, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $850,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $352,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

April 2024

Third-Party Logistics Company
Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County
Total Project Amount: $11,866,242
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $4,853,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Cross River Bank

Italian Restaurant
Bernville, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $1,250,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $348,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Victory Bank

March 2024

Waste Collections & Disposal
West Chester, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $2,698,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,102,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Gymnastics Facility
Exton, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $1,555,127
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $640,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property

Lending Partner: First Resource Bank

February 2024

Pharmaceutical Consulting
Royersford, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $6,950,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $2,827,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Hardware Fastener Wholesaler & Distributor
Newark, New Castle County
Total Project Amount: $5,152,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,767,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: WSFS Bank

January 2024

Child Care Services
Blandon, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $826,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $343,000
Used to: Purchase building to expand & relocate facility
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

Child Care Services
Exeter, Luzerne County
Total Project Amount: $750,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $311,000
Used to: Purchase building/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: FNCB Bank

December 2023

Auto Body Shop
Silverdale, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $830,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $344,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Penn Community Bank

Candy Wholesaler & Retailer
Temple, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $530,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $222,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Diamond Credit Union

Residential Realtor
Ambler, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $2,052,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $844,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Univest

November 2023

Food Manufacturer
Exton, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $3,978,642
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,639,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate with renovations
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

Trampoline Park
Glen Mills, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $2,880,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,182,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Customers Bank

Conveyor Belt Supply and Service
Exton, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $2,260,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $929,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: First National Bank of Pennsylvania

Farm Market & Food Manufacturer
Bernville, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $1,200,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $498,000
Used to: Improve commercial property & purchase equipment
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

September 2023

Technology Consulting Company
Wyomissing, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $12,500,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $4,936,000
Used to: Purchase land/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Customers Bank

Food Marketing
Lancaster, Lancaster County
Total Project Amount: $2,720,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,117,000
Used to: Purchase land/build commercial property
Lending Partner: Ephrata National Bank

Technology Consulting Company
Abington, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $640,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $268,000
Used to: Purchase land/renovate commercial property
Lending Partner: Univest

July 2023

Child Care Services
Exton, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $5,005,849
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $2,061,000
Used for: Ground up construction and equipment
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Child Care Services
Reading, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $1,230,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $508,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

May 2023

New/Used Car Dealer
Sinking Spring, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $2,120,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $756,000
Used to: Improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

Supermarket
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $6,852,398
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $2,819,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Zions Bank

Gymnastics Facility
West Chester, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $2,977,335
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,228,000
Used to: Purchase land/build commercial property to relocate and expand facility
Lending Partner: WSFS

Engineering Services
Glen Mills, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $1,870,165
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $773,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

April 2023

Sports & Recreation Instruction
York, York County
Total Project Amount: $2,560,298
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $925,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

Child Care Services
Mohnton, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $1,126,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $465,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

March 2023

Metal Fabrication
Collingdale, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $4,590,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,890,000
Used to: Purchase & improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union

Funeral Home
Red Hill, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $460,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $193,000
Used to: Purchase commercial property
Lending Partner: Victory Bank

February 2023

Law Firm
Doylestown, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $1,514,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $627,000
Used to: Purchase land & ground up construction
Lending Partner: WSFS

Residential Remodeler
Lansdale, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $636,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $265,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Penn Community Bank

January 2023

Taxidermy Studio
Birdsboro, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $755,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $311,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

Retail Flooring Company
Malvern, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $1,646,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $678,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Mid Penn Bank

December 2022

Child Care Services
Folcroft, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $1,460,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $605,000
Used to: Refinance commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Centric Bank

November 2022

Residential AV System Design & Programming
Chester Springs, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $1,092,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $449,000
Used to: Improve commercial property
Lending Partner: American Heritage Federal Credit Union

October 2022

Health & Wellness Benefits Company
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $3,827,154
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,573,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: TD Bank

Automotive Restoration & Fabrication Company
Downingtown, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $2,847,232
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,174,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: WSFS

September 2022

Mental Health Practitioners
Breinigsville, Lehigh County
Total Project Amount: $822,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $343,000
Used for: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Window & Door Manufacturer
Morgantown, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $15,370,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $5,466,000
Used for: Equipment for new facility
Lending Partner: Customers Bank

Chiropractor Practice
Reading, Berks County
Total Project Amount: $1,700,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $693,000
Used for: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Tompkins Community Bank

Wendy’s Fast Food Restaurant
Schnecksville, Lehigh County
Total Project Amount: $2,646,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,047,000
Used for: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Full-Service Auto Repair & Service Station
Harleysville, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $2,184,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $788,000
Used for: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Furniture & Appliance Rentals
Columbia, Lancaster County
Total Project Amount: $1,471,786
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $505,000
Used for: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Link Bank

Landscape Architecture
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $1,550,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $642,000
Used for: Refinance of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: WSFS

Storm Water Design Firm
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $800,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $327,000
Used for: Refinance of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: WSFS

August 2022

Bed and Breakfast
Bird in Hand, Lancaster County
Total Project Amount: $950,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $298,000
Used for: Change of ownership purchase of existing commercial property
Lending Partner: Ephrata National Bank

Full-Service Auto Repair
Stevens, Lancaster County
Total Project Amount: $583,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $211,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

Full-Service Hair Salon
Folsom, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $509,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $214,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Centric Bank

IT Service Provider
Doylestown, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $430,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $182,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: C&N Bank

July 2022

Manufacturer
Perkasie, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $750,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $283,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: QNB Bank

Child Care Services
Enola, Cumberland County
Total Project Amount: $4,885,377.21
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,680,000
Used to: Purchase land/build commercial property to expand to an additional facility
Lending Partner: Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Full-Service Restaurant
Manayunk, Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $1,580,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $498,000
Used to: Refinance SBA 7(a) loan
Lending Partner: S&T Bank

Full-Service Restaurant
West Chester, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $1,690,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $699,000
Used to: Refinance SBA 7(a) loan
Lending Partner: S&T Bank

Mental Health Practitioners
Allentown, Lehigh County
Total Project Amount: $670,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $280,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Peoples Security Bank & Trust

June 2022

Family Diner
Pennsburg, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $1,130,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $452,000
Used for: Change of ownership purchase of existing commercial property
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

Tech/IT Firm
Springfield, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $850,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $250,000
Used for: Refinance of SBA 7(a) loan
Lending Partner: Franklin Mint FCU

Chimney Construction Company
Media, Delaware County
Total Project Amount: $1,650,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $826,000
Used for: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Univest

Early Learning Center
King of Prussia, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $1,710,020
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $684,000
Used for: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: WSFS

Car Wash
North Wales, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $5,600,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,680,000
Used for: Ground up construction & equipment
Lending Partner: WSFS

May 2022

Brewery & Full-Service Restaurant
Quakertown, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $1,130,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $469,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: QNB Bank

Full-Service, Gourmet Brazilian Steakhouse
Horsham, Montgomery County
Total Project Amount: $4,452,460
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $1,523,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: WSFS Bank

Concrete Delivery Company
Downingtown, Chester County
Total Project Amount: $1,845,615
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $763,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: Truist

Indoor/Outdoor Tennis Facility
Washington Crossing, Bucks County
Total Project Amount: $2,405,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $869,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: C&N

Coin-Operated Laundromat
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $1,651,860
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $683,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Fulton Bank

April 2022

Seasonal Planter Arrangements
Philadelphia
Total Project Amount: $2,284,215
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $943,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Energy Servicing Company
West Chester, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $590,065
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $244,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Meridian Bank

Dance Studio
Fort Washington, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,643,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $680,000
Used to: Purchase existing commercial property
Lending Partner: The Victory Bank

March 2022

Property Maintenance and Landscaping
Furlong, Bucks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $803,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $330,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property
Lending Partner: Penn Community Bank

February 2022

Optometrist & Eyewear Boutique
Collegeville, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,062,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $415,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property to relocate to larger facility
Lending Partner: Univest

Brewery
Emmaus, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,342,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $548,000
Used to: Purchase/improve commercial property to relocate to larger facility
Lending Partner: Embassy Bank

Recreational Vehicle Sales
Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, PA
Total Project Amount: $663,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $273,000
Used to: Purchase new commercial property
Lending Partner: M&T Bank

Audio Visual Design and Installation Services
Malvern, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $10,465,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $4,224,000
Used to: Purchase land/build commercial property to relocate to larger facility
Lending Partner: WSFS

January 2022

Retail Flooring Company
Havertown, Delaware County, PA
Total Project Amount: $625,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $258,000
Used for: Purchase of existing commercial property
Lending Partner: Mid Penn Bank

Highway & Site Contractor
Skippack, Montgomery County, PA
Total Project Amount: $736,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $375,000
Used for: Refinance of commercial real estate
Lending Partner: Republic Bank

December 2021

Lawn Care Provider
Headquartered in West Chester, Chester County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,540,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $616,000
Used for: Purchase of new commercial property
Lending Partner: WSFS Bank

November 2021

Franchise Gutter Repair
Allentown, Lehigh County, PA
Total Project Amount: $774,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount: $310,000
Use For: Purchase of new commercial property
Lending Partner: Harleysville Bank

Law Firm
Doylestown, Bucks County, PA
Total Project Amount: $1,180,000
SBA 504 Loan Amount $472,000
Used For: Purchase of formerly leased property
Lending Partner: WSFS Bank

The family-owned child care provider recently opened its fifth location with support from its third SBA 504 loan facilitated by Seedcopa. The new 11,000-square-foot facility, located at 1151 Harrisburg Pike in Carlisle, expands Tender Years’ capacity to serve families across the Harrisburg area, adding space for up to 129 children and creating 24 new jobs.

“At this point, we understand the value of SBA 504 financing firsthand,” said Jay Krebs, owner-operator of Tender Years Child Development Center. “The below-market interest rates and low 10% equity requirement allow us to reinvest in our business, our facilities and the families we serve. For a growing business like ours, it just makes sense.”

With financing from lending partner Univest and Seedcopa, Tender Years was able to bring its newest location to life and continue building on a legacy that began in 1984. Original owner Betty Krebs attended the grand opening alongside her children, Jay Krebs and Kim Shearer, who now lead the business as owner-operators. Both became involved in the business just a few years after it opened and have helped guide its growth from a single center to five locations.

“Tender Years has a long and successful track record of providing valuable child care services and creating employment opportunities in the Harrisburg area,” said Seedcopa SVP & Relationship Manager Marie Shires. “Their continued growth, strong community presence and proven business model made this project an ideal fit for SBA 504 financing.”

In addition to its newest Harrisburg Pike location, Tender Years operates centers in Camp Hill, Hershey, Mechanicsburg, and Hampden Township. Across all locations, the family-owned business now has the capacity to serve nearly 700 children in the Harrisburg region.

Tender Years offers programs for infants, young toddlers, older toddlers, preschool, pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, summer camp, and before- and after-school care. Its educational curriculum is certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and the centers participate in Pennsylvania Keystone STARS, the state’s continuous quality improvement system for early learning and school-age care programs.

Addesso had turned to Peoples Security Bank to refinance their loans on two properties before a substantial balloon payment loomed at the end of 2026 on a conventional loan. Refinancing was not new to them. (This almost 30-year-old business had done so on prior occasions.) But time was ticking to refinance the high-risk balloon payment into much more manageable monthly payments.

Working with Seedcopa to facilitate an SBA 504 loan at a lower fixed interest rate, both properties are now refinanced – including paying off a high-interest business line of credit (LOC).

Now a loan structure that weighed down on the business — even more than the natural stone and quartz surfaces they work with — is a thing of the past. The family-owned business can focus on profits, instead of payments, with recent projects like Penthouses in Soho, Michelin Star Restaurants in NYC and homes of several professional athletes in the Philadelphia area.

You can see success with your own eyes at Addesso Marble & Granite World’s showroom and warehouse facility at 252 East Main Street in Norristown, as well as its fabrication facility on West Penn Street. They employ more than 45 people on projects including bathrooms, bar tops, custom floors, custom fabricated pieces, fireplaces, kitchen counters/sinks, outdoor pavers and commercial projects.

Photos courtesy Addesso Marble & Granite World

TITLE: Relationship Manager

REPORTS TO: Seedcopa Managing Director

PRIMARY FUNCTION: This position will be responsible for originating loans, focusing on achieving loan goals, credit quality, and superior customer service. In addition to credit structuring and analysis, this position will interact with borrowers, financial institutions and strategic partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for working with incoming business development calls.
• Preparation of the Seedcopa Initial Assessment and the ability to work with partners and borrowers to understand the request and structure loans.
• Ability to conduct engagement meetings and document checklist from these meetings.
• Maintain and continue to foster existing relationships with banks/credit unions, economic development partners, legal and accounting practices and commercial realtors.
• Ability to develop new relationships in both existing and new markets.
• Responsible for updating and maintaining the Salesforce CRM system.
• Contribute ideas to the sales and marketing efforts of Seedcopa, including social media efforts.
• Attend regular online or in-person training sessions to keep abreast of program changes and improvements.
• All other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business or a related field and at least 3 years of commercial lending experience or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of SBA and government loan programs is preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite, Salesforce (or other CRM), and loan/internet software.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to balance production with credit quality.
• Attention to detail and organization skills are a must have.
• Qualified candidates will possess a commitment to a strong culture of collaboration and cooperation.

Working Conditions: This role requires regular on-site presence, with the potential for off-hours work as projects and work as required.  However, once training is complete a partially remote hybrid work option, consistent with organizational policy, is available.

Benefits: Seedcopa provides a highly competitive benefits package to full-time employees inclusive of dental, health and life insurance, paid time off and an employer matched 401(k) program.

Time Requirement: Full-time

Date: October 1, 2025

Contact:  If interested, please contact Michelle May at michelle@workplaceharmonyhr.com.

CCEDC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Coatesville, PA’s own Rebecca Lukens is widely recognized as America’s first female industrialist. She assumed control of Brandywine Iron Works and Nail Factory in 1825, which later became Lukens Steel, during a time when women couldn’t open bank accounts in their own names, obtain a loan or vote.

Here at Seedcopa + SeedcoDE, we’ve been taking a look back at our own history books for active SBA 504 loans in our portfolio over the decades. We counted more than four dozen loans for businesses that were majority-owned by women, spanning more than a dozen counties across Pennsylvania.

Here are a few of the recent highlights, plus more impressive women-owned businesses you can support this Women’s History Month – and always. We’re proud to call these women Seedcopa borrowers!

Main Line Gymnastics’ New Building with Seedcopa

Tour the Transformation of Jenny’s Salon

“I Bought a Building” With 3 Months of Covered Payments

Counseling Center Opens with 504 & Leasing Space

Bucks Co. Business Owner Finds Right Property & Loan

What Can You Do With an SBA 504 Loan?

Van Scoy Jewelers Opens New Retail Location with SBA 504 Loan

Fire & COVID: SBA 504 Helped Eatery with Both

B & W Machine Works, Inc. ─ Perkasie, Bucks County

Billy’s Homemade Candies LLC ─ Temple, Berks County

Bonaventure Academy, Inc. ─ Bethlehem, Lehigh County

Brecknock Academy Childcare Inc. ─ Mohnton, Berks County

Denise’s Nieces Inc. ─ Philadelphia

E C Fence & Iron Works, Inc. ─ Norristown, Montgomery County

Edge Self Storage ─ Hamburg, Berks County

Emergent Energy Solutions, LLC ─ West Chester, Chester County

Everlasting Wellness Limited Liability Company ─ Wyomissing, Berks County

Fox and Finch LLC ─ Bethlehem, Lehigh County

Institute of Dance Artistry ─  Fort Washington, Montgomery County

JD2 Environmental, Inc. ─ West Chester, Chester County

Lighthouse Family Counseling, LLC ─ Exton, Chester County

Monaghan Funeral Home, Inc. ─ Red Hill, Montgomery County

Pathways For Change, LLC ─ Emmaus, Lehigh County

Premier Office Solutions, Inc. ─ Willow Grove, Montgomery County

Reading Midwife Enterprises LLC ─ Reading, Berks County

Rota-Mill, Inc. ─ Oley, Berks County

Ruggiero Plante Land Design, LLC ─ Philadelphia

Russell Ventures Group, LLC ─ Hatfield, Montgomery County

Scargill Insurance Agency, Inc. ─ Pottstown, Chester County

Solace Farms Day Retreat ─ Chester Springs, Chester County

Somax Environmental, Inc./R&M Equipment Company ─ Spring City, Chester County

SRK Hospitality Inc. ─ Altoona, Blair County

Stand Strong Training Inc. ─ Downingtown, Chester County

StormWater Solutions, LLC ─ Philadelphia

Tiny Learners Learning Center LLC ─ Exeter, Luzerne County

Tiny Thinkers Academy, LLC ─ Blandon, Berks County

Tiny Treasures Child Care ─ Kenhorst, Berks County

Water Wheel Tavern ─ Wycombe, Bucks County

SAVS Veterinary ─ Fleetwood, Berks County

Top photo courtesy Nikischer & Associates

Another affordable option is saving the day. Thanks to a trio of SBA 504 loans, three Choice Hotels will continue to thrive and be family owned under new ownership: The Comfort Suites on 140 Stroehman Drive in Altoona, Blair County; the Comfort Inn at 130 Patchway Road in Duncansville, Blair County; and the Comfort Inn at 100 South 4^th Street in Huntingdon, Huntingdon County.

“This is a clear trend we’ve been seeing in the hospitality industry, as small- to mid-sized hotel owners retire and look to the next generation of existing hotel managers to take on an additional location – and keep up with a market that has become increasingly competitive,” said Seedcopa Managing Director Sherwood Robbins.

In this case, not only do the SBA 504 loans support a change of ownership, they also have a profound impact on job creation and retention, rural development and expansion of minority enterprises.

“It is particularly gratifying to see these hotels managed by a family,” said Robbins. “We have mother-and-son owners, with the father personally guaranteeing the loan due to the son’s young age at the time. We also have the siblings of that mother and father, who are also a married couple, owning the other two hotels and investing in the future of Central Pennsylvania.”

Congratulations to mother and son owners Trupti and Om Patel, along with husband/father Sachin Patel, as well as husband and wife Jignesh and Nimisha Patel. Fun fact: Om Patel is the youngest owner-operator of a Choice Hotel franchise.

Photos courtesy the Patel family

The timing was right in 2025, when BoardSafe Docks was approved for two SBA 504 loans, which allowed them to purchase their existing leased space and an additional location, less than 2 miles away, in Fleetwood, Berks County, PA.

“We’ve known Seedcopa for years, as we discussed options, but an almost 20% increase in sales in 2024 put us in a position where we needed additional permanent storage and manufacturing space to continue to grow,” said BoardSafe Docks Co-owner and Founder Scott Tihansky. “In partnership with Fulton Bank, the team at Seedcopa was able to get us to the finish line with an interest rate well below what we were seeing elsewhere.”

In operation since 2013, BoardSafe Docks has become recognized as an industry leader in the manufacturing of aluminum-welded floating dock systems, not only in the Mid-Atlantic region but across the nation. Thanks to their strategic relationships and solution-focused designs, BoardSafe Docks creates or improves water access along water trails, and for municipalities, state and local park systems, wildlife organizations, and rowing centers.

Clients can choose from fiberglass grating, synthetic lumber, or aluminum as they work with BoardSafe to design customized pedestrian bridges, gangways, rowing docks, courtesy boat docks, adaptive kayak launches, and combination dock systems with accessible fishing piers. 

If you’ve ever been to the Conshohocken Rowing Center, Cooper River Park, University of Pennsylvania Rowing Center, or Temple University’s state-of-the-art Rowing Center, then you’re already familiar with BoardSafe’s impressive work.

Erie Canal recently celebrated its 200th Anniversary and launched its celebration with a kayak and canoe paddle from a new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.

Additional projects are in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Jacksonville, Chicago, Manhattan, Boston Harbor, and across the nation. BoardSafe’s floating dock systems provide universal access to all looking to get out on the water.

BoardSafe is a trusted expert at solving complex site-access challenges for its customers by providing one-of-a-kind, long-lasting water solutions. Working with Seedcopa to finance the purchase of additional manufacturing space has allowed BoardSafe to grow and expand its manufacturing capabilities to meet its customers’ growing needs.