When Chantel West-White first joined CO.STARTERS, she had an idea, a passion for candle making, and a desire to build something of her own. What she didn’t have yet was the confidence or roadmap to turn that passion into a thriving business.
Chantel West-White, Owner of Wick & Pour
Today, she’s helping others do exactly that.
Since launching Wick & Pour Candle Bar, Chantel has transformed what began as a basement hobby into a thriving Downtown Lynchburg destination where customers can shop handcrafted candles and create their own through interactive candle-making workshops.
Along the way, she has worked with the SBDC – Lynchburg Region to strengthen nearly every aspect of her business. From financial planning and marketing guidance to website development, employee onboarding, and strategic growth, the SBDC has remained a trusted resource throughout her entrepreneurial journey.
But perhaps the biggest milestone isn’t one found on a balance sheet.
This year, Chantel returned to CO.STARTERS not as a participant, but as a facilitator, helping guide a new generation of entrepreneurs as they begin building businesses of their own.
“Being a CO.STARTERS participant gave me the confidence and tools to grow Wick & Pour, so coming back as a facilitator has been incredibly meaningful. I love encouraging new entrepreneurs, sharing what I’ve learned, and watching others take the first steps toward building their dreams.”
For Chantel, stepping into the classroom on the other side of the table represents more than professional growth. It’s a chance to invest in the same entrepreneurial community that invested in her.
CO.STARTERS is a ten-session program that equips aspiring and existing business owners with practical tools, expert guidance, and a supportive network to help move business ideas forward. Participants explore everything from business models and customer discovery to marketing, financial planning, and sustainable growth, while connecting with fellow entrepreneurs facing many of the same challenges.
Chantel’s journey is exactly the kind of success story CO.STARTERS was designed to create. She entered the program looking for direction and left with the confidence to grow a business
that continues to serve the Lynchburg community. Today, she’s helping others take those same first steps.
For the SBDC – Lynchburg Region, that’s what success looks like: entrepreneurs who not only build successful businesses but also strengthen the local entrepreneurial ecosystem by encouraging and mentoring those who follow.
If you’re ready to explore your own business idea or take your existing business to the next level, CO.STARTERS could be the first step toward building your own success story.