SCORE: The Secret Weapon for Small Business Success

If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur, you know that starting and growing your business might be an overwhelming task. But there’s a secret weapon that can help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship: SCORE. SCORE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping small businesses succeed and has the largest network of volunteer business mentors in the United States.

“I refer businesses to the local SCORE Chapters regularly,” said Melissa Hemrich, Business Development Officer at Coastal Community Bank.

Located in Snohomish, Island, and San Juan Counties, the Sno-Isle branch of SCORE provides expert advice and educational workshops to help for-profit and nonprofit businesses plan, launch, manage, and grow. SCORE services are free. Small business owners can attend a local or online workshop or work with a mentor.

Hemrich explained that SCORE offers free resources on many different subjects. “They have experts available as mentors and offer support for businesses I may not be able to help with,” she said. “When a business or customer tells me about a struggle, idea, or concern, and I see related classes on the SCORE website, I forward it to them. I regularly refer businesses to SCORE who need help with a business plan or how to purchase or start a business.”

John (Jack) Stiegler, Certified SCORE Mentor, explained that SCORE mentors are experts in entrepreneurship and related fields. Mentors offer advice on financing, human resources, business planning, taxes, legal issues, government contracting, marketing, social media, and every area that impacts the operation of a small business.

According to Stiegler, last year, the 110 mentors in greater Seattle SCORE met with 1,888 clients, held more than 5,500 individual sessions, and hosted 156 workshops.

Dozens of businesses have achieved their goals with the help of SCORE mentors. From a bakery that expanded into multiple locations to a company that increased its revenue by over 400%, SCORE has played a key role in their success. You can check out more success stories on the SCORE website.

SCORE is an invaluable resource for any small business owner or entrepreneur looking to grow their business. With expert advice and educational workshops, SCORE mentors are here to help your business thrive. Don’t hesitate to contact them and take advantage of their services: Mentoring Branches | SCORE.