WHO ARE WE ?
Our Team
Michael a. Maiorana
Co-Founder | Director of Finance, Dark Horse Hospitality
Partner, Bold Citizen Group
Michael A. Maiorana is a finance professional turned entrepreneur with a deep-rooted passion for helping small business owners build profitable, sustainable companies. A graduate of Canisius College with a degree in Finance, Michael competed on a global stage in equity analysis through the prestigious CFA Institute, sharpening his skills in financial strategy, market analysis, and high-level reporting.
With a strong foundation in finance and credit, Michael co-founded Dark Horse Hospitality, where he currently serves as Director of Finance. In this role, he leads all financial planning, reporting, and modeling efforts, while also driving strategy and operational systems to support the group’s continued growth. Under his financial leadership, Dark Horse has grown into a multi-million dollar hospitality group, operating three restaurants and four unique brands.
Michael brings hands-on experience in accounting, financial modeling, and operations—skills developed not in theory, but in the trenches of building businesses from the ground up. His ability to turn numbers into action and strategy into results makes him a powerful partner for entrepreneurs who are ready to stop running in circles and start scaling with purpose.
Now, through Bold Citizen Group, Michael is channeling his experience to help bold small business owners who are ready to work on their business—not just in it. His mission is simple: help other entrepreneurs build the kind of thriving, resilient companies he’s built himself.
shane stewart
Co-Founder | Director of Marketing, Dark Horse Hospitality
Partner, Bold Citizen Group
Shane Stewart is a brand builder, creative strategist, and entrepreneur with a sharp eye for growth and a deep understanding of what it takes to turn an idea into a movement. He earned his degree in Business Management from Medaille College, where his entrepreneurial spirit was matched by a passion for branding and operations.
As Co-Founder and Director of Marketing for Dark Horse Hospitality, Shane leads all branding, marketing, and customer experience initiatives across a growing portfolio of restaurant and lifestyle brands. From concept to execution, Shane is the creative engine behind the voice, vibe, and vision of the company’s now-thriving hospitality group. His leadership has helped position Dark Horse as one of the most recognizable and fastest-growing hospitality brands in the region.
With a unique mix of operational insight and marketing expertise, Shane has a proven track record in developing brands that not only stand out—but scale. He understands how to connect with audiences, build loyal communities, and create systems that support long-term success.
At Bold Citizen Group, Shane is focused on helping other bold business owners bring their ideas to life, strengthen their brand identity, and implement the operational structure needed to grow with confidence. He knows firsthand what it takes to build something from nothing—and now, he’s using that experience to help others do the same.