Picture this: a small-town main street, once vibrant, now dotted with empty storefronts, their darkened windows reflecting years of missed opportunities. But what if those spaces could pulse with life again? What if they could be filled with bustling local businesses, the aroma of fresh-brewed coffee, and the chatter of neighbors reconnecting? That’s exactly what Ignite, based in Washington County, PA, is making happen.

When I first met with Christie Johnson and Max Miller, the dynamic duo leading Ignite, I was struck by their passion and the sheer practicality of their approach. They see those empty storefronts not as failures, but as possibilities. And they’ve built an entire ecosystem designed to turn those possibilities into thriving local businesses.

It’s Not Just About Business—It’s About Community

At its core, Ignite is a business incubator, but calling it that feels almost too clinical. It’s more like a community greenhouse—nurturing ideas, helping them grow strong roots, and then giving them the space to flourish. Operated by Washington & Jefferson College, Ignite offers free consulting, mentorship, and access to vital resources for entrepreneurs at every stage.

One of the things that really stood out to me is their Ideas 2 Enterprise (I2E) program—a free business planning competition that goes beyond workshops and slideshows. Over five weeks, participants dive deep into market research, marketing strategies, operations planning, financial modeling, and pitch tactics. And it’s not just theory—graduates walk away with a complete business plan, five-year financial projections, and a shot at grant funding ($5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second, and $1,000 for third).

Even more impactful? Every graduate gets three months of subsidized coworking space, a 90-minute digital strategy session, and a CliftonStrengths assessment—tools that set them up for success.

The Ripple Effect of Revitalization

When small businesses thrive, communities thrive. It’s that simple. Ignite’s model recognizes this, aiming to fill empty storefronts not just with any business, but with ventures that add real value to the community—cafes, local boutiques, service providers, and more.

Take a look at their I2E alumni. From Scoop Dog Canine Creamery to Kindred Flower Farm, the businesses that have come through Ignite aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. They’re adding color, flavor, and energy back to their towns.

And this isn’t just about individual success stories. It’s about creating momentum. As one business opens and draws foot traffic, it makes the space next door more appealing. Suddenly, that once-quiet block is bustling again. It’s a domino effect—but in the best way possible.

Why Monval Capital is Excited to Partner with Ignite

At Monval Capital, we believe that real estate development isn’t just about buildings—it’s about people, stories, and communities. Our mission is to revitalize spaces while preserving their unique character. Ignite’s work aligns perfectly with this.

When you bring in entrepreneurs who are passionate about their craft and committed to their community, you’re not just filling a vacancy—you’re investing in the town’s future. And when developers, small business owners, and community leaders collaborate, that’s when real magic happens.

We see Ignite as a critical piece of that puzzle. Their hands-on approach to fostering small businesses directly impacts the kind of vibrant downtowns we aim to support. By working together, we can ensure that the spaces we renovate aren’t just filled—they’re thriving hubs of activity.

More Than Just a Co-Working Space

Ignite isn’t just about launching new businesses. It’s about sustaining them. Their co-working space in Washington, PA, is a hub of creativity and collaboration. Entrepreneurs have access to private mailboxes, flexible workspaces, secure 24/7 access, and perks like free coffee (because, let’s be honest, no good idea ever started without coffee).

But perhaps more importantly, they get to be part of a community. Starting a business can be isolating, but places like Ignite foster connections—between new entrepreneurs, seasoned mentors, and local experts. That network can often be the difference between a business that flounders and one that soars.

What’s Next?

As Monval Capital and Ignite look toward future collaborations, the potential feels limitless. We’re excited about the prospect of not just renovating empty storefronts but helping fill them with businesses that will thrive long-term.

It’s easy to look at empty buildings and see problems. But what Ignite teaches us is that every empty storefront is an opportunity waiting for the right idea—and the right support—to bring it back to life.

If you’re a budding entrepreneur or someone with a dream you’ve been sitting on, check out Ignite. And if you’re interested in how Monval Capital is working to breathe life back into communities, let’s talk.

Because revitalizing communities isn’t just about buildings—it’s about people. And with partners like Ignite, we’re more confident than ever that small towns can have big futures.