Client Hall of Fame – Flickerwood Wine Cellars

Flickerwood Wine Cellars
McKean County
www.flickerwood.com

Recently-opened Flickerwood Wine Cellars grew from Ron Zampogna's love of wine. An amateur winemaker for 20 years, Zampogna created Flickerwood upon his retirement from the U.S. Forest Service. Skilled as a winemaker, he called upon the Clarion University Small Business Development Center for assistance in preparing a business plan and securing financing.

Clarion consultants appreciated Zampogna's business mission - create a family-run business that perpetuates his Italian heritage and communicates his love of wine. Reviewing Zampogna's business ideas, the SBDC helped hone his concepts into concrete business objectives which formed the foundation of his developing business plan.

The business plan for Flickerwood included increasing Zampogna's wine-making capabilities and opening a retail store. The SBDC helped Zampogna secure $115,000 in financing to bring his plans to fruition.

Flickerwood Wine Cellars continues to thrive, as the Zampogna's have expanded their wine selection and enjoy sharing their love of wine with visitors at their store year-round. They serve as an excellent model for turning a passion into a profitable business.