F.N.B. and the Penguins are teaming up to highlight and assist locally-owned small businesses through the F.N.B. Small Business Development Camp.

Small Business Development Camp Program Overview

Five (5) finalists will be selected by a panel of experts and each will receive technical assistance from F.N.B. and the Riverside Center for Innovation (RCI) thru a six-week training program consisting of education speakers, workshops and classes led by F.N.B., Penguins executives and members of RCI who will provide guidance and insight on how to sustain, scale and advance their business. 

At the conclusion of the training program, each finalist will present their “pitch” to an expert panel of judges who will narrow down the pool of candidates to the top three (3) who will compete for their share of $50,000 and an opportunity to acquire marketing assets with the Penguins the following season.

2026 Program Schedule

  • October 29, 2026: Pre-Game Welcome Reception at Penguins vs. Florida Panthers

  • November 2, 2026: Session 1: Financial Services & Resources Available for Small Business

  • November 9, 2026: Session 2: Marketing Your Business

  • November 16, 2026: Session 3: Building and Managing an Effective Team

  • November 23, 2026: Session 4: Pricing Models for Successful Business

  • November 30, 2026: Session 5: Finding and Attracting Investors

  • December 7, 2026: Session 6: Prepping for Pitch

  • December 14, 2026: Final Pitch Presentations

Eligibility

Businesses eligible to be considered must:

  • Applications must be submitted by the business owner who must be at least 18 years of age
  • Have established operations for a minimum of two years
  • Have annual gross revenues that total less than $1,000,000
  • Have no more than 20 full-time employees
  • Be able to attend each of the sessions outlined in the Program Schedule
  • Be currently active and in good standing with the PA Department of State and have its principal place of business located in PA

Non-profit organizations are not eligible to apply.

Submission

  • Business that are eligible will be able to submit through September 19 with this form
  • Additional details and information on the Small Business Development Camp can be found in the program rules
  • In order to be considered, business qualifications can be found in the rules

2025 Winners Announced

Street Fries, the recipient of a $25,000 grant, is a local dining establishment that is known for its fresh-cut fries served with both local flair and international inspiration. Through its popular food truck and catering services, Street Fries delivers a unique dining experience unlike anywhere else. To learn more about Street Fries, visit https://www.streetfries4ever.com/.

Heirs Barber and Social Shop came in second place, winning a $15,000 grant. In third place, iShip & Pack received a $10,000 grant.

All participating businesses, including Arkenstone Technologies and The Behavior Institute, will receive marketing assets at Penguins games throughout the remainder of the 2025-26 season to help aid brand awareness in the region.