Williamsport local Adam Roskowski owns and manages Rosko’s Brew House, a taproom brewery in downtown Williamsport. Adam researches and brews almost 100 barrels of beer a year in small batches to reflect seasons, various holidays, harvests, and popular preferences. He is a third-generation entrepreneur whose grandparents set the example which Adam wanted to emulate. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in 2011 with a business degree and a major in finance, Adam returned to his hometown in Williamsport to launch the brewery. 

He purchased a small property in town which required major rehabilitation. Adam worked with the Penn State SBDC in 2018 to develop a business plan and financial projections prior to launching his brewery. After nearly five years of rehabilitation, building, and procurement, Rosko’s Brew House opened its doors to the public in 2022. 

Over the past six months, Adam has been working with Penn State SBDC consultant Tom Keiffer, Agricultural Center for Excellence Director Martin Brill, and SBDC Restaurant Consultant Michael DiVecchio to evaluate the space, menu, location, and competition and determine the best way to maximize profitability while balancing a quality family life. The consulting team helped Adam decide against expanding to a food truck. The vehicle acquisition would pose additional costs, and loyal customers of Rosko’s Brew House are attracted to the brewery’s cozy atmosphere and vast variety of beers. 

Instead, to expand the brewery’s food menu and sales, Adam identified a local bakery that offers sausage sandwiches to complement his soft pretzels. The SBDC also encouraged Adam to seek partnerships with select caterers to diversify sales and meet his goal of 100 barrels/year of beer production and sales. He is on track to achieve his goal in 2024! 

In thinking about the assistance from the Penn State SBDC, Adam said, “I take any chance I get to promote and recommend the SBDC’s services. They have helped me tremendously in narrowing my focus, organizing my vision, and creating an actionable plan.”