PRESS RELEASE
New Fairfax business offers low voltage and communications services in southwest Minnesota
Local entrepreneur benefits from Southwest Initiative Foundation loan program
FAIRFAX, Minn.— Harley Pfarr has opened a new business — River Valley Low Voltage — with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program. The company provides low voltage and communications services to residential, commercial, farm, and government. This includes fiber optic cabling and splicing for data transmission, surveillance systems and Wi-Fi and data networking services for reliable and fast connectivity.
Pfarr has been in the telecommunications industry for more than nine years, most recently as lead low voltage technician with Computer Technology Solutions. He’s acquired certifications installing fiber optic, Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) and Avaya IP Office, among others.
“Technology has always piqued my interest and is something I am passionate about. I started my own low voltage cabling company to grow and expand my knowledge and career,” Pfarr said.
River Valley Low Voltage specializes in the sale, installation and maintenance of surveillance systems, networking hardware, door access control systems, Wi-Fi access points, point to point wireless systems, fiber optics, voice-over IP phones, network audio and visual and low voltage communications wiring.
“As a dedicated team, we strive to provide the best small-town service possible. We are committed to providing expert advice and solutions to businesses to ensure that their networks operate with optimal efficiency,” Pfarr said.
Currently, Pfarr operates the business from his home in Fairfax. Loan funds from SWIF provided working capital and helped him purchase inventory.
Loan programs have been a key function of SWIF since its inception to support communities and businesses throughout southwest Minnesota. In 2001, microlending was added to existing programs as a tool to support small businesses and people looking for self-employment opportunities.
“With the growth of technology and need for technology services, Harley’s business is a great addition to southwest Minnesota. We’re proud to support him as an entrepreneur,” said SWIF Economic Development Officer Jackie Turner.
Microloan clients receive free technical assistance from SWIF staff to improve their business management skills. Areas of support include business planning and financials analysis, QuickBooks training, marketing assistance and other training opportunities for the life of the loan.
This microloan program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture. For more information, contact SWIF at (800) 594-9480, (320) 587-4848 or send us an email.
