Cory Schaeffer, a passionate entrepreneur, founded Aim First Firearms in 2017. The Company started as an in-home retail gun store in Indiana County, Pa., catering to a niche market with high-quality firearms and exceptional customer service. Cory’s dedication and business acumen led to rapid growth, and within a few years, his business expanded threefold. This success enabled Cory to acquire a retail store, solidifying his presence in the community. Unfortunately, a devastating fire struck, destroying the store and leaving Cory at a crossroads. Faced with significant losses and uncertainty, he needed a plan for the future of his business.
With a strong desire to rebuild his business, Cory reached out to local bankers and the county planning department. Both parties, recognizing his potential and the importance of his business to the community, referred him to the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center (SBDC). At the Pitt SBDC, Cory collaborated with a consultant and a graduate assistant to develop a comprehensive business plan and financial projections. The project’s scope evolved multiple times, necessitating several revisions to the financial projections. With the custom consulting, along with detailed industry and competitive research provided by the SBDC team, Cory was able to finalize a solid business plan that addressed his immediate needs and future growth prospects.
The thorough planning and support paid off. Cory’s loan application was approved, paving the way for the reconstruction of his store. The collaboration between the SBDC, the bank, and the county planning department culminated in a groundbreaking ceremony in the spring of this year, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Cory’s business. This success story highlights the resilience and determination of a local entrepreneur and underscores the pivotal role of the SBDC in supporting small businesses through challenging times.