John Pitroff, founder and owner of Second Chance Composting in Adams, Massachusetts, started his business just after his daughter was born. He has worked tirelessly to grow it into a thriving business that benefits his family, community, and local ecosystem. This is his first year as an EforAll Mentor.
What made you want to become a mentor?
After a year in business, I was interviewed for the Accelerator Program. Due to rapid growth and limited time, I focused on my business. The program and its people were great, and I wanted to participate somehow. A couple of years later, I became a Mentor, sharing my story to help others, as I was once helped. Experience should be shared, not wasted. I enjoy seeing others grow.
Is there a specific mentoring experience that you are most proud of?
I formed a really meaningful connection with the business owner I worked with. She was extremely thankful. One of my proudest moments was sharing a simple idea that doubled her market potential. She now has an entire product line reaching a market she hadn’t considered. Being even a small part of that success means a lot.
What is your favorite part of being an EforAll mentor?
Sharing with others. Being open and honest about our successes and missteps, offering advice, and helping make the startup process simpler for someone else.
What do you think makes EforAll special?
The amount of information participants gain in a short time. Many people go in thinking their business will be one thing and come out with a much clearer, stronger version—like chipping away to find the statue within.
What advice would you have for entrepreneurs?
Work hard, form great relationships, and be willing to learn. Stay humble and open. Keep your guard up—this isn’t easy. Use mistakes and doubt as fuel. Have a deeper reason to push through hard times—without that, entrepreneurship isn’t for you.
Interested in becoming a mentor? Learn more here.