Penn Avenue Fitness & Their SBDC Story

Building Strength Through Community: Penn Avenue Fitness Celebrates Growth with Support from the Kansas SBDC

Starting a business takes vision, determination, and the willingness to seek guidance along the way. For Chance Cargile, Shaeli Cargile, and Amy Rash owners of Penn Avenue Fitness LLC in Independence, Kansas, success has come through a combination of hard work, adaptability, and valuable support from the Kansas Small Business Development Center (SBDC).

Established in 2025, Penn Avenue Fitness was created with a mission to provide a welcoming, community-focused fitness center where individuals of all fitness levels can pursue healthier lifestyles. As with many new entrepreneurs, Chance understood the importance of surrounding himself with knowledgeable resources while turning his vision into reality.

Rather than waiting until a problem arose, Chance, Shaeli, and Amy proactively connected with the Kansas SBDC to explore ideas, discuss opportunities, and gain perspectives that could help strengthen the business from the beginning.
"We did not have a particular problem," Chance explained. "We wanted to sit down with someone to brainstorm ideas and options related to business that we may not have thought of."

That collaborative approach is exactly what the Kansas SBDC strives to provide. Through one-on-one advising, business owners gain access to experienced professionals who help them evaluate opportunities, navigate challenges, and make informed decisions.

For Chance, the experience stood out because of the genuine commitment shown by the SBDC team.

"Their willingness to help made all the difference," he said.

Working alongside Kansas SBDC Advisor Laura Keller, Chance was able to discuss business strategies, evaluate growth opportunities, and build confidence in the decisions being made for the future of Penn Avenue Fitness. The guidance and support provided through the SBDC helped reinforce a strong foundation for long-term success.

Today, Penn Avenue Fitness has successfully surpassed its one-year milestone and continues to experience steady growth. Chance credits much of that success to the network of individuals and organizations that supported the business throughout its journey.

"Our business just passed the one-year mark, and it continues to grow," Chance shared. "That wouldn't be possible without everyone who has helped along the way."

When asked what advice he would offer aspiring entrepreneurs, Chance emphasized the importance of patience, planning, and humility.

"Be patient. Have a plan, but be willing to adapt as needed. Seek advice—it takes courage to admit you don't have all the answers."

His message reflects a lesson that resonates with many successful small business owners: growth often comes from being open to learning and leveraging available resources.

The Kansas SBDC is proud to have been part of Penn Avenue Fitness's entrepreneurial journey and looks forward to seeing the business continue to strengthen both its members and the Independence community for years to come.
 

About Penn Avenue Fitness LLC
Located at 2011 N. Penn Avenue in Independence, Kansas, Penn Avenue Fitness is dedicated to helping community members achieve their health and fitness goals in a supportive environment. Through quality fitness facilities and a commitment to member success, the business continues to make a positive impact on the local community.
 

About the Kansas SBDC
The Kansas Small Business Development Center provides no-cost, confidential business advising and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state. From startup planning and financing to growth strategies and succession planning, the Kansas SBDC helps businesses start, grow, and succeed.

Addie Mattes, a fitness instructor at Penn Avenue Fitness, teaching a spin class.