PMI Coaching Recommends Using SCORE as a Resource
Professional Marketing International suggests that entrepreneurs keep their options open as they go through the challenging process of starting their first business. One resource that can be extremely beneficial is SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives). Boasting over 350 offices nationwide, SCORE offers free business advice for entrepreneurs and has helped a staggering 8.5 million small businesses get off the ground and running!
Founded in 1964, SCORE’s volunteers offer business advising sessions which cover a wide variety of business topics. And their excellent resources have been available online since 1996, meaning that even those who don’t live near a SCORE office can receive assistance from their experts. With this expanded availability, SCORE now helps nearly 20,000 businesses get started each year. Some of the notable businesses assisted by SCORE over the years include Jelly Belly Candy and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company.
As a partner of the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA), SCORE provides many unique assets for entrepreneurs. Their business counselors include working and retired executives and business owners, all dedicated to sharing their expertise. With their online services, entrepreneurs can ask specific business questions and get answers straight from the source. They also offer regional workshops that are free to attend. For those with hectic daytime schedules, their online workshops offer great flexibility. As a final suggestion, the consultants from PMI Education consider the SCORE eNewsletter an excellent source of tips and information. Bolster your chances for success by drawing upon the free resources from SCORE in addition to your other efforts.
Free Small Business Resources: Forums You Have a Website…Now What?