Startup Coach Matt Reckner: “Somerset County is full of resources and opportunities to help businesses start and grow”

“Is the juice worth the squeeze?” That’s one of the questions that Startup Alleghenies coach Matt Reckner helps each entrepreneur determine for themselves. Regardless of what stage the startup concept is at, he will help you take it to the next level. “Your business doesn’t need to be ready to open to benefit from Startup Alleghenies assistance,” he said. “We can help you talk it out, get it all down on paper and guide you on the next phase. At the end of the process, you’ll be able to determine “Is the juice worth the squeeze,” and what is the next step you need to take.”

We recently interviewed Reckner about how he partners with Somerset entrepreneurs to create successful businesses.

What motivates you to be a coach for entrepreneurs in your county?

A lot of businesses don’t begin on the right track and end up failing. I want businesses to have the very best opportunity and foundation, so that they have the best chances to succeed.

What is your business background/specialty?

My extensive range of experience in many areas in the business world has given me a well-rounded skill set. I have several years in retail management, banking, and offering business solutions to small and medium-sized businesses.

What are some of the business ideas/startups that you are working on right now?

Right now, I am assisting entrepreneurs to launch restaurants, cleaning businesses, retail businesses, photography, and various other types of companies.

What’s one thing that not many people know about you?

In my free time, I enjoy spending time on the grill and using my smoker barbecuing.

Why Somerset County? What makes it an ideal place for business and livability?

Somerset County has been my home all my life. Somerset County has many resources for businesses to start and grow. Couple that with a low cost of living, recreational opportunities, and an innovative outlook, and it makes it a great place to have a business and live.

What advice do you have for people with a startup idea?

If you have a great business idea, get it on paper. Then the first step is to validate it. This means testing your concept with potential customers to see if there is a need or demand for it in the market. If you can validate your idea, the next step is to put together a team who can help turn your idea into a reality. Once you have a team in place, it is important to create a detailed business plan that will help you figure out for yourself whether this idea is right for you, I call this the “Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze Moment.” The business plan also helps you find funding and keep track of your progress. Finally, always remember that starting a business is a marathon, not a sprint, so be prepared for the long haul.

When you are ready to take the step into starting a business, I’m here!  It doesn’t matter what stage of the process you are in.

To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.