Case Study: Alaska Perfect Peony achieves export growth and industry leadership with SCORE Mentors Berks and Schuylkill Cty

Alaska Perfect Peony - Customer Case Study

Alaska Perfect Peony, led by owner Rita Jo Shoultz in Fritz Creek, Alaska, built a unique peony-growing business from the ground up but needed guidance on how to expand, particularly around export opportunities and industry connections. As the business grew, Shoultz also faced the challenge of navigating a largely new market with few local experts to consult, especially in the early years of Alaska peony production.

SCORE Mentors Berks and Schuylkill Cty helped Alaska Perfect Peony through mentoring with Bryan Zak, who connected Shoultz to key players in exporting at both the Alaska and international levels and introduced her to NASBITE. The support helped position the company for growth and visibility, including an invitation to speak in 2017 on Alaska peonies and exporting opportunities, participation in SCORE’s Reno training event, and recognition as a finalist in SCORE’s 2018 American Small Business Championship.

Alaska Perfect Peony

Rita Jo Shoultz

Owner