SCORE Mentors

06/16/2026

SCORE mentor Ebony Grey knows that when experience meets purpose, real impact follows.

By volunteering with SCORE, mentors help expand access, education, and opportunity for entrepreneurs building businesses and legacies of their own.

If you’re ready to give back in a way that truly matters, there’s a seat for you at the table. 💙

06/15/2026

💡 Ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers live webinars and local workshops to help you start, grow, and thrive.

06/11/2026

“From a business perspective, there is nothing I would do differently.”

Most entrepreneurs can point to mistakes they wish they could take back. Not Nita Kirk.

After more than 20 years in the painting industry, Nita launched K & K Painting and More in 2021, right in the middle of unprecedented uncertainty. Like every new business owner, she faced challenges, setbacks, and countless lessons along the way.

But looking back, she wouldn't change a thing.

“From the highs and lows of the start-up, we would not have built the foundation of our business as it exists today without the continual learning from the journey.”

That mindset has helped Nita build a thriving business rooted in quality craftsmanship, genuine relationships, and exceptional customer service. It's also why she continues planning for the future, expanding her knowledge, growing her visibility, and exploring new opportunities.

Along the way, SCORE mentor Gary Washington helped her build that foundation from the ground up.

“SCORE has been a foundation and vessel to the success of my business. My SCORE mentor, Gary Washington, has been invaluable in helping me launch.”

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is just as direct:

“Never limit yourself to achieve your ultimate goals.”

06/10/2026

¿Hablas español? Únete a nosotros el 16 de junio a las 12:00 para este seminario web GRATUITO sobre cómo crear un plan de negocio rápido. Regístrate aquí: https://bit.ly/4dn7JEk

06/09/2026

“I have to say this is, by far, the best conference I have ever attended.“

After attending a SCORE event, Haley DeYoung left with more than notes and takeaways.

From learning how to challenge fear-based thinking to understanding how AI can help customers find her business, she walked away with practical strategies she could put to work right away. But what stood out most?

“I just loved meeting these women and hearing about their brilliant business ideas.”

Sometimes the biggest breakthrough isn't a tactic. It's being in a room full of people who inspire you to think bigger.

06/08/2026

📚 Low-cost business learning opportunities await!

Join a SCORE Northeast New Jersey webinar or workshop this week and 🚀

06/05/2026

“Financial decisions should be inclusive and collaborative.”

When Pamela Chen launched Refresh Investments, she brought deep expertise to the table as both a CPA and CFA. But like many entrepreneurs, she quickly discovered that building a business requires more than mastering your craft.

As she worked to grow her financial planning and investment firm, Pam turned to SCORE mentor Bill Ehrlich for guidance on scaling sustainably. Together, they developed a plan focused on team building, marketing, and operational efficiency.

The results were transformative. Pam launched a new website, created an Advisory Board, hosted educational webinars, and streamlined her operations, allowing her to focus on serving clients while growing the business.

What truly sets Refresh Investments apart is its approach. In an industry that can often feel intimidating, Pam has built a firm where clients are encouraged to ask questions, understand their options, and actively participate in the decision-making process.

By combining expert guidance with a collaborative philosophy, Refresh Investments is helping make financial planning more accessible for women and their families.

06/04/2026

HAPPENING TODAY! See you soon. 😎

Owners: Explore how can help prepare your products for retail, distribution and future needs. Don’t miss our 6/4 webinar with Andrew Morehead of GS1 US and SCORE Mentors. https://bit.ly/4dnwHU5

06/03/2026

SCORE mentor Ke'Ira Lewis knows that some of the most rewarding parts of mentorship go beyond business advice.

Through SCORE, she has built meaningful relationships with entrepreneurs, supporting them as they grow their businesses and pursue their goals. What may start as a mentoring conversation can grow into a lasting connection rooted in trust, encouragement, and shared success.

Those relationships are what make mentorship so special.

If you're ready to share your expertise and build connections that make a difference, consider volunteering with SCORE. 💙

06/02/2026

Productivity Tips for First-time Business Owners https://bit.ly/3PObFVy

06/02/2026

A small business owner and their mentor 💁‍♀️

06/02/2026

Hable Espanol? ¿Hablas español? Únete a nosotros el 16 de junio a las 12:00 para este seminario web sobre cómo crear un plan de negocio rápido. Regístrate aquí: https://bit.ly/4dn7JEk

06/01/2026

Your matter when selling products in stores or online. Master business basics. Join Andrew Morehead of GS1 US and SCORE Mentors on 6/4. https://bit.ly/4dnwHU5

06/01/2026

JUNE WEBINAR SCHEDULE — Swipe through to learn more about this month’s sessions. 👉

6/4 - Business Barcode Basics: Meet Requirements, Manage Products and Sell in More Places
6/9 - Advanced SEO Strategies to Drive Traffic, Leads and Sales
6/16 - Small Business Content Marketing – Planning and Creating Engaging Content
6/18 - Retirement Planning Basics for Small Business Owners
6/23 - NotebookLM for Business: Your AI-Powered Research Partner
6/30 - Win Customers, Build Loyalty and Increase Sales With Emotional Intelligence

We hope you enjoy this month’s line up and look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event!

06/01/2026

Learning never stops when you’re building your dream! 🌟

Join SCORE mentors and small business experts for low-cost webinars and local events designed to help entrepreneurs like you succeed.

06/01/2026

Pin it to the SCOREboard 📌

What’s something that’s been challenging you lately?

We'll use the comment section as a sounding board to offer resources and support.

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Have something YOU want to ask other entrepreneurs? DM us to submit your prompts. 📩

05/29/2026

“I took a class in business school about becoming an entrepreneur by acquiring someone else’s great idea. The concept resonated with me.”

After nearly a decade in corporate America, the owner of Blue Wrench Truck and Auto Repair decided it was time to make the leap.

In 2022, he and his business partner acquired a repair shop with more than 30 years of history serving Idaho's Treasure Valley. But buying a business and growing one are two very different challenges.

That’s why he reached out to SCORE almost immediately.

What he found wasn't just advice. It was a team of experienced business leaders willing to challenge assumptions, offer honest feedback, and help chart a smarter path forward. When he considered pursuing government contracts, his mentors advised a different route. Their guidance helped him focus on opportunities that better aligned with his goals and resources.

Since then, monthly meetings with SCORE mentors Dave and Don have become a cornerstone of the business's growth. From hiring and HR to marketing and expansion, they serve as trusted advisors and accountability partners.

“Having an experienced group of business experts as a sounding board is extremely helpful.”

Today, Blue Wrench continues to grow, serving everyone from Kenworth trucks to Honda sedans and helping keep the Treasure Valley moving.

Learn how SCORE helped turn a business acquisition into a growth strategy.

05/27/2026

“One thing I’ve really realized is how important guidance and mentorship are when growing a business.”

Like many entrepreneurs, Austin Gerling didn't grow up around business owners or people teaching financial strategy. Much of the journey was learned through experience, mistakes, and figuring things out along the way.

That’s why SCORE mentorship made such a difference.

“It’s helping me accomplish goals, structure things properly, and just giving me someone I feel comfortable discussing business with.”

As businesses grow, so do the decisions. Having someone to share lessons, offer perspective, and help navigate the next level can make all the difference.

“I really believe there’s enough opportunity out there for everyone, and that we all grow faster when people are willing to help each other learn.”