Small businesses are often hailed as the lifeblood of communities, and for good reason. They generate jobs, foster innovation, create unique local character, and generally ensure that the economic benefits they produce stay within their communities.

For nearly 200 years, WSFS Bank has been a trusted partner to myriad small businesses in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware region — not by providing one-size-fits-all products but by offering legendary service, local decisioning, and shared goals. Among them are a handful that FOX 29 spotlighted in May for Small Business Month.

Varlo Sports

Soj Jibowu, an immigrant and former Division I track and field athlete, transitioned from a 16-year career in biomedical chemistry to founding Varlo Sports in 2019. Based in Pennsauken Township, N.J., the company specializes in performance and recreational gear for cycling and triathlons.

“What we really focus on is technical aesthetics, obviously making products that are beautiful and comfortable, but then also making sure that we’re empowering people to do amazing things, conquering their goals for tomorrow,” said Jibowu.

Co-owned by Jibowu, Ed Chang, and Jacob Brown, Varlo Sports has assembled a top-tier team of designers, textile engineers, and athletes dedicated to creating best-in-class performance apparel.

“Unlocking the human potential is something that has always been interesting to me,” said Jibowu. “It’s been a beautiful journey, and it’s possible because of my amazing team.”

And WSFS Bank.

“WSFS has been an amazing partner,” said Jibowu. “I had this folder of stuff, and we put it to the side, and we just talked. Before I knew it, we had a loan, we had credit lines, we had accounts with the bank, and we had this amazing relationship.”

“(Jibowu) told us the story, told us the vision, and we bought in — hook, line, and sinker,” said Jeremy Shackleford, Senior Vice President and Director of Small Business Sales at WSFS Bank.

Today, Varlo’s products are available online and in select REI stores nationwide. They are also set to outfit the USA Triathlon Foundation for the upcoming Summer Olympics.

Bake’n Bacon

Bake’n Bacon, an innovative culinary venture in Philadelphia with a creative approach to bacon-centric dishes, began in 2019 with one food truck but has quickly grown to three, as well as the city’s first and only bacon-inspired restaurant, located at 1148 South 11th Street.

Additionally, the restaurant’s upstairs will soon be opening and include a space for events like weddings and birthdays and an executive lounge featuring high-end drinks and small plates.

Justin Coleman, the co-owner of Bake’n Bacon, attributes a significant part of his success to the support he receives from WSFS Bank.

“We want to definitely thank WSFS, because we had so many banks tell us no, tell us that we’re growing too fast,” he said. “WSFS actually gave us the opportunity.”

Kids ’N Kribs

Located in Devon, Kids ’N Kribs has been a cornerstone of the Main Line, providing quality children’s furniture and accessories to area families since 1982. It’s not your average baby and family lifestyle store; it takes a consultative approach in helping customers find the products uniquely situated for their needs, from car seats and strollers to solid wood furniture that can convert from crib to bed, and much more.

“We care about helping our customers find the product that is going to work best for their needs,” said Kids ’N Kribs owner Gloria Clawson. “There is an old saying, ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ and we want to be that village to support families.”

“Kids ’N Kribs has a longstanding relationship with WSFS Bank, and we’re happy to support their growth,” said Candice Caruso, Senior Vice President and Chief Consumer Lending Officer at WSFS Bank. “WSFS is able to help (small businesses) at all stages of growth. No matter if it’s a lending need, equipment need, or even just consultation on how to plan for wealth or employees. We have all the resources and solutions that any small business might need to get to that next level of success.”

Lederach Corner Store Piano Bar

Lederach Corner Store Piano Bar in Montgomery County was originally established as a general store in 1830. Sara Picard bought the building in 2020, and she and her team immediately set out to create for patrons a memorable experience packed with fine food and music.

The Piano Bar offers old-school service that makes you feel like you’re the only one in the room, coupled with specialty cocktails, a unique menu that is updated every three months, and live music from Thursday to Saturday.

“That was part of my dream,” said Picard. “I wanted a place that people would come and be entertained and enjoy the vibe. We wanted to bring something unique back to our community that adds to the building’s legacy. I think we’ve accomplished that and bring a bit of Manhattan to the Harleysville area.”

Picard said that she couldn’t have done so without WSFS Bank.

“WSFS was very accommodating; they took the time to evaluate our business plan,” she said. “They came to the table, they delivered what they promised, and it was an easy ride for us.”

Main Line Monograms

A fixture in Newtown Square that has been providing personalized gifts for a decade, Main Line Monograms recently saw a change in ownership with Heather Fusaro and Jordan Raech stepping in. Their connection runs deep: Fusaro and Raech’s mother, Theresa, were friends and neighbors, and Raech even babysat Fusaro’s children.

Both Fusaro and Raech were long-time customers of Main Line Monograms. About a year and a half ago, the former jokingly told the previous owner to let her know if she ever decided to sell the business. To her surprise, the owner expressed interest in selling, and a few months ago, Fusaro and Raech officially took over, with help from WSFS Bank.

Since then, they have been actively running the shop, offering personalized and unique gifts for every occasion. From engagements, weddings, and baby showers to graduations and customized gear for the shore season, Main Line Monograms caters to all gifting needs.

“WSFS has been amazing,” said Fusaro. “They held our hands through the entire process. They’ve made it so much easier to buy a business.”

WSFS Bank’s Community-Centric Approach

WSFS Bank’s commitment to supporting small businesses extends beyond mere financial transactions. The bank’s approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that each business faces. By offering personalized services and fostering close relationships with business owners, WSFS Bank is the small business bank of choice for many in the region and ensures that its customers receive the support they need to succeed and grow.

Learn more about WSFS Bank’s small business lending solutions.