Ken Codeluppi is an industrial engineer and the President of Wall Firma Inc., a manufacturer specializing in masonry waterproofing and repair products for the construction sector. Ken acquired the company from its founder in 1983 and has since expanded its reach into global markets. Fluent in both Portuguese and Spanish, Ken’s global outlook was greatly influenced by his late wife, an architect from Mexico City, and by his time spent living abroad in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.
Ken has worked with Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Consultant, Brent Rondon since 2017, first at Duquesne University and most recently at the University of Pittsburgh. Through the SBDC, Ken has received valuable guidance in business planning, one-on-one counseling, and access to export certification programs. Additionally, he was awarded the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grant, also known as the GAP grant in Pennsylvania. This grant enabled Ken to participate in international trade shows, where he strengthened his presence in Central America and built critical business connections. Ken’s company currently exports to 36 countries, with international sales accounting for more than one-third of his total revenue.
(From Left) Ken Codeluppi, Wall Firma Inc.; Brent Rondon, University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center
Earlier this year, an unexpected opportunity arose when the Latin American Cultural Center in Pittsburgh hosted the United States Ambassador of Panama, José Miguel Alemán Healy. The Pitt SBDC extended an invitation to Ken, who had the opportunity to meet with the Ambassador. As a result of the meeting, Ken was connected to key business contacts in Panama and now plans to further expand his reach into the country. Consultant Brent has helped Ken develop a targeted export plan to optimize his market approach and a follow-up trip to Panama is now in the works.
Recently, Ken’s international business efforts were recognized when he received the 2025 Western PA Small Business Administration (SBA) “Exporter of the Year” Award. Dr. Kelly Hunt, SBA Director, personally informed Ken of the award, recognizing his extensive international outreach, export growth, and commitment to building global relationships. Ken credits the SBDC’s ongoing support and guidance, stating that the connections, resources, and strategic planning provided by the SBDC played a crucial role in helping him achieve this recognition.
(From Left) Ken Codeluppi, Wall Firma Inc.; Dr. Kelly Hunt, U.S. Small Business Administration; Arlene Everly, Wall Firma Inc.; Robert Stein, University of Pittsburgh Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence; Jackie Pacheco, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission; Rich Fitzgerald, Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission; Ryan Russell, U.S. Commercial Service; Annia Aleman, University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center; Nate Nevala, District Chief of Staff United States Congress; Brent Rondon, University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center