As a self-taught founder navigating patents, financials, manufacturing, logistics, and branding, I recognized the need for experienced guidance.

SCORE didn’t just give me advice—it gave me a foundation, a partner in problem-solving, and a steady source of confidence during some of the toughest seasons of entrepreneurship.

Mike Harding had reached the pinnacle of his culinary career as a private chef for a prominent Pittsburgh family, traveling with them and preparing meals full-time. Yet even with all his success, from his days as Executive Chef at Children’s Hospital to his current role, Chef Mike and his wife, Liz, found themselves constantly on the go, struggling to find time for proper family dinners. “We figured if we were having issues that probably other families were having them, too,” Chef Mike explains. “We wanted to recreate what mom did for us when I was a kid, and have nourishing food cooked with

A business is not simply a “business,” especially when you’re talking about a business in the arts; it is a personal labor of love.

Michael Fox knew he wanted to work in video production from the moment he left film school. But his path from cable TV editor to successful agency owner required more than technical expertise. It demanded a shift in mindset and the right guidance to grow. He launched The Beach, a video production agency (https://www.thebeach.nyc/contact-us/), in 2010 after years of freelancing. The company specializes in creating video content for social media, websites, and other digital platforms, with a particular focus on food brands. Over the years, The Beach has worked with major clients including Google

Wendy McSparren turned administrative challenges in mental health into Admirra, a thriving tech startup, with SCORE mentorship and strong community support.

I started Access Grantwriting to help non-profits that need extra capacity to secure grants. When a client engages me to do grantwriting, I write, edit, and apply to private foundations, government bodies, and corporate funding sources. My grant research services help clients to find new potential funders. My third service is a Readiness Assessment. I make sure my clients have the right documentation and the data funders want to see. Beyond these core solutions, I often advise on general fundraising strategy. Funders want to know that non-profits have diverse revenue sources, which I liken to

Congratulations to Puzzle Rides, a SCORE client, for being recognized on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO—100 list as a 2025 Disruptor Honoree! This prestigious honor celebrates businesses that break boundaries with bold ideas, creativity, and innovation. Founded by Katie Dufort, Puzzle Rides offers immersive, real-world adventures that transform outings into unforgettable experiences. Their unique model — puzzle-solving rides on custom golf carts in Prescott and Scottsdale — combines exploration, teamwork, and fun for families, tourists, and even corporate teams. With their expansion into a

“Reaching out to SCORE puts you on the fast track to turn your idea into a business entity..."

Learn more about how SCORE Mentors helped Choosing Hope clear a path towards success.

With help from SCORE and mentor Michael Taetzsch, 929 Towing & Recovery launched a consensual towing business that’s transforming roadside help in Colonie.

Winston Powell turned to SCORE to transform his DJ business. With mentorship, he learned to budget, plan for slow seasons, and grow with confidence.