SCORE Mentors

WHAT A NIGHT is right!

What an amazing event in celebration of our 60th Anniversary!

Who will be next to ? 😎

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SCORE North Texas District Director Bob Siffermann was a guest on The Jeff Crilley Show to talk about how SCORE helps small business owners. Bob pointed out that SCORE mentors prioritize keeping an open mind when advising entrepreneurs.

Watch the show here: https://youtu.be/MxushUz3uA4?si=wAugg-rjvfp7D0A9

Since 1964, 17 million entrepreneurs have achieved their dreams with help from SCORE.

Join us as we officially launch our 60th anniversary celebration, and discover how we've evolved to meet the unique and changing needs of America's small business owners, in today's press release: https://bit.ly/4efLVbJ

SCORE Celebrates 60 Years of Serving America’s Small Businesses Visit SCORE.org SCORE Celebrates 60 Years of Serving America’s Small Businesses 17 million entrepreneurs achieve their dreams with help from SCORE. WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2024 – SCORE is proud...

After nearly 30 years in the travel industry, the pandemic prompted a significant career shift for Michele Delgado. Transitioning from corporate life, she launched Hartmetrics, a business consultancy focusing on leadership development, career growth and talent optimization.

With guidance from SCORE, Michele refined her business strategy, identified cost-effective marketing opportunities and expanded her reach through speaking engagements. The mentorship provided fresh perspectives and actionable advice, proving invaluable in navigating her new journey.

📷: SCORE client Michele Delgado, founder of Hartmetrics

Women are leaving the workplace and starting businesses at an exponential rate due to life changes, out-of-date workplace policies and passion projects among other reasons.

While dozens of headlines discuss the alarming rate Hispanic women are leaving the workforce, SCORE sees this as a rising opportunity for startups. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3TDP8K3

Challenges that Hispanic Women Face When Starting Up, and How to Overcome Them Women, especially Hispanic women, face a certain set of challenges when it comes to opening a small business.

What motivates you to keep going when things get challenging in your business?

With SCORE, small businesses achieve big success.

Starting and growing a small business can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. SCORE is here to help. In fact, small businesses who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased business growth.

Learn more about SCORE: https://www.score.org/about

Burgundar, a unique venue for live-action role-play (LARP) enthusiasts, was founded on principles of inclusiveness, respect and empowerment. It has become a central hub for the LARP community, fostering a strong bond that has led to incredible growth.

However, it’s the support from SCORE mentors that has truly set them apart. With help from SCORE, Burgundar’s Board of Directors secured a 10-year property lease, enhanced safety measures and evolved into a cohesive, effective team. These achievements culminated in Burgundar receiving the Successful Innovative Business award at SCORE Maine’s 2024 Success Awards.

📸: SCORE client, Douglas Andrews, Founding Board Member of Burgundar

Interested in small business grants, loans and other funding options for Latino and Hispanic entrepreneurs?

Today's article, sponsored by Global Atlantic Financial Group, is for you!

11 Funding Resources for Hispanic and Latino Small Business Owners Interested in small business grants, loans and other funding options for Latino and Hispanic Entrepreneurs? See this list.

What's on your TBR (to be read) list? 🤓📚

Friends don't let friends have 13 years of bad business! Tag your business bestie to tell them they can match with an expert mentor for 👻FREE👻.

We recognize that there are times your firm needs assistance. So USBC partners with SCORE to get answers to your questions quickly. Research tells us that small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth. SCORE mentoring is a free service offered to businesses served by USBC. SCORE mentors meet with you one-on-one to support your success by providing experienced advice, consulting on best practices, and educating you on small business topics.

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SCORE Charleston chapter chair Roy Anderson joined the host of the South Carolina Business Review for a radio interview about SCORE and our upcoming 60th anniversary. Roy discussed SCORE's evolution over these 60 years-- from a network of retired executives to an organization that has grown to include many mentors who are still in business today.

SCORE celebrates 60 years helping entrepreneurs A national, all-volunteer small business assistance organization is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. They stay busy in our state with free mentoring services and workshops and today we have one of their volunteers on the phone. Mike Switzer interviews Roy Anderson, chair of the Charleston...

Emmi’s Closet is a shining example of turning passion into profit. What began as a hobby for sustainable fashion evolved into a thriving online boutique. However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. When the pandemic hit, Michelle Nguyen had to pivot quickly, transforming her closet cleanout into a full-fledged business. Yet, a year in, growth stalled, and she realized she needed help. That’s when she turned to SCORE.

Matched with a local mentor, Michelle received guidance on everything from business planning to SEO and financial management. Her mentors encouraged her to think strategically, take calculated risks and believe in her vision. With their support, Michelle doubled her revenue, launched a successful website, won a $10K grant and completed an entrepreneurship program.

“I’ve become a completely different entrepreneur,” Michelle says. “My SCORE mentors gave me the confidence and the tools I needed to succeed.”

📸: SCORE client Michelle Nguyen, founder of Emmi’s Closet

More than 2.9 million Americans are employed by Hispanic-owned businesses, according to the SBA. As Hispanic Heritage Month quickly approaches, SCORE encourages Hispanic entrepreneurs to work with a mentor to grow their small business.

Learn more in today's press release.

SCORE Supports Hispanic Entrepreneurs With Free Mentoring Services /PRNewswire/ -- More than 2.9 million Americans are employed by Hispanic-owned businesses, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SCORE, a...

What's the biggest lesson you've learned since becoming a small business owner?

Financial Management - August 30 @ 12:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3WEWygr

Join us for an in-depth review of financial management for the existing business or serious entrepreneur in pre-startup mode. We'll focus on the profit and loss statement, balance sheet and cash flow, as well as discuss expenses, startup costs, cash cycles, granting/receiving credit, pricing, inventory, asset acquisition, and financing options.

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Starting a business is challenging, but with SCORE, you’re never alone. In November 2020, Marcia Trejo embarked on her journey by securing an LLC, with the goal of establishing a credible private practice. Pathway to Solutions (PTS) is a counseling and life coaching organization dedicated to helping clients achieve personal goals and improve mental health. They provide a range of services including individual, family and group counseling, 1:1 coaching, self-love events for teens, public speaking, workshops, self-care retreats for women and self-care boxes.

Inspired by personal challenges and military service, Marcia sought SCORE’s guidance and connected with her mentor, Ramona Fantini. SCORE provided invaluable resources to help Marcia develop a business mission statement and grasp the financial aspects. Ramona’s mentorship was pivotal in Marcia’s growth, facilitating her transition from part-time to full-time practice.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of resources and experienced mentors to guide you. ➡ https://score.org/peoria

📷: SCORE client, Marcia Trejo, founder of Pathway to Solutions

08-29-24 - Cash Flow Management & Forecasting Made Easy for Small Business - August 29 @ 6:30 PM CST
Register here: https://bit.ly/46FNNHz

Confused About Managing Cash Flow?

Objectives:
Learn basic cash flow concepts to proactively manage your business
Understand why being profitable does NOT equal positive cash flow
Learn how to forecast cash flow with easy-to-use tools
The facilitator for this webinar is Terry Bishop, CPA. Terry is the Managing Partner, Midwest Region for Core Financial Outsourcing. He has nearly 25 years of experience in outsourced B2B solutions with most of his career working in public accounting serving the needs of small and mid-sized businesses, entrepreneurs and nonprofits in the areas of accounting, finance, tax planning and other advisory services.

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🆓 Instant Access: On-demand webinar available now!
In this joint presentation by CPA and virtual CFO Valerie Mondesir and relationship marketing consultant Michelle Y. Talbert, attendees will engage both hemispheres of their business brains. Valerie will provide the nuts and bolts of ensuring that your business finances are attractive to lenders and other stakeholders. Participants will gain a clear understanding of funding options, become familiar with the documentation necessary to secure funding, and enhance financial management practices to remain "funding ready."

Michelle will provide your business playbook for creating and nurturing the key relationships that all business owners need to develop for their success. Wherever you are along your business journey, there will be takeaways that can be implemented today.

Tips for Black-Owned Businesses - How to Make Your Business More Attractive to Lenders
Recorded webinar (online)
Cost: $0.00
Duration: 1 Hour
Language: English
Register now ↓

Tips for Black-Owned Businesses - How to Make Your Business More Attractive to Lenders Gain a clear understanding of funding options, become familiar with the documentation necessary to secure funding and enhance financial management practices.

08-27-24 How to Leverage AI in Small Businesses - August 27 @ 11:30 AM CST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3WFgCQ4

This online workshop will define Artificial Intelligence and propose safe and efficient ways to leverage AI, including:
1) A brief overview of AI and its growing importance
2) The benefits of AI for small businesses, which include efficiencies, cost savings and growth
3) Practical applications of AI in small businesses – customer relationship management, accounting, personalization, marketing, and meeting management
4) How to Implement AI in your small businesses
Workshop presenter Girish Shah has over 25 years’ experience in helping clients assess the effectiveness of their current business processes, define business requirements, develop IT Strategy, and select and implement information technologies to improve the efficiency of their business processes.

score.tfaforms.net By checking this box, you consent to receive communications from SCORE and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by SCORE’s Event Terms of Service, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.

This one can be tough. How do you deal with fear and doubt as an entrepreneur?

Cybersecurity and Your Small Business - August 27 @ 12:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3yrWpoP
In this workshop, we'll introduce the basics of online security and how it applies to your business and customers. We will talk about:

Why cybersecurity matters for businesses of all sizes
How to protect your business and your customers online
What steps you can take after a potential security breach
Presented by Marial Elena Duron, Grow with Google instructor

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From waiting tables to running a thriving tea company, Patrick Tannous' journey is nothing short of inspirational. At just 21, alongside his preschool best friend and now CEO, Patrick launched Tiesta Tea with a clear mission: to make loose-leaf tea understandable, accessible and affordable.

📈 Tiesta Tea has grown dramatically since its inception in 2010. Today, the company boasts 27 employees, two facilities and its teas are staples in major retailers. Innovative business practices have contributed to their success, having sold over $50 million worth of tea since starting the company.

🔗 Patrick’s entrepreneurial path was steeped in challenges, but with SCORE’s guidance, he never felt alone. His mentor, Robert, a seasoned executive, provided not just expertise but also the confidence needed to navigate the complexities of business growth.

💡 Patrick's advice to budding entrepreneurs? "Don’t be afraid to ask for help. People love to help entrepreneurs." His journey underscores the importance of leveraging resources like SCORE.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of resources and experienced mentors to guide you. ➡ https://score.org/peoria

📸 SCORE clients Dan Klein and Patrick Tannous, co-founders of Tiesta Tea

Making Your Plan "Bankable" (Growth Capital) - August 22 @ 12:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3SHfv14

Lenders and banks look for good credit, management expertise/commitment, a feasible business plan, adequate owner equity, and sufficient collateral. This webinar will address tools to help you prepare.

score.tfaforms.net By checking this box, you consent to receive communications from SCORE and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by SCORE’s Event Terms of Service, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.

Launch Your Business with Customer Focused Marketing - August 22 @ 12:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/4dASIvK

In this workshop, you will learn how to:
*Create a compelling brand
*Define your audience
*Convert customers
*Build loyalty and advocacy
Presented by Maria Elana Duron, a Grow with Google Instructor

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⏰ Hurry, Peoria entrepreneurs! Register now for our free workshop!
Ensure your business appears on Google Search and Maps and boost your online visibility by leveraging Google My Business, now known as Google Business Profile. In this webinar, our expert presenter will show you how to build and manage your Google Business Profile, ensuring visibility and accuracy across Google Search and Google Maps. Take advantage of this opportunity to maximize your online presence and attract customers in your local community and beyond.

How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile to Boost Your Online Presence
Date & Time: August 22, 2024, 1:00 pm EDT
Live event (online)
Cost: $0.00
Duration: 1 Hour
Language: English
Register now ↓

How to Optimize Your Google Business Profile to Boost Your Online Presence Learn how your business can appear on Google Search and Maps leveraging Google My Business, now known as Google Business Profile.

08-21-24 - Introduction To Government Contracting - August 21 @ 6:30 PM CST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3WBh01Y

Learn the basics of government contracting, and the basics of legally becoming an exporter. This workshop is great for businesses that have done nothing with the government contracting, and to those Businesses that need a refresher on what they should be doing to attain government contracts. We will discuss our free bid lead/ bid matching system, how to register as a vendor (at all government levels-SAM, IPG,etc.), discover small business certifications that can help you succeed, and we will discuss subcontracting opportunities as well.

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What's a quote that has inspired you as a business owner?

August 20: Streamline Your Marketing with AI - August 20 @11:30 AM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3WVZoiL

AI everywhere - but how do I get it to help me do marketing that works?
If you’ve been feeling freaked out over AI, you’re not alone.
Get in on this upcoming webinar to discover how AI can revolutionize your marketing strategy. And don’t worry, it’s not taking over the world anytime soon. Here’s what you’ll learn:
AI-Powered Efficiency: Learn how to use AI to automate your marketing processes. Save time and eliminate hassle.
Understanding AI: We’ll break down how AI tools work and how you can communicate with them effectively. No tech jargon, just clear explanations. Create Compelling Content: Discover how AI can help you generate marketing content that engages and converts. This webinar isn’t just about watching the future unfold; it’s about being a part of it. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to enhance your existing knowledge, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

score.tfaforms.net By checking this box, you consent to receive communications from SCORE and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by SCORE’s Event Terms of Service, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.

Learn the Basics of Google Ads - August 19 @ 7:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3LXEDg8
In this webinar, you will learn how to reach more customers and grow your business with Google Ads. The topics that we will cover:

*how to create an account and set up an ad campaign
*how to improve ad performance
*how to measure success

score.tfaforms.net By checking this box, you consent to receive communications from SCORE and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by SCORE’s Event Terms of Service, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.

Discover the inspiring journey of Mihai Popescu, founder of MCP HVAC. Originally from Romania, Mihai moved to the U.S. at 23 with a business degree and a dream. Today, he has transformed that dream into a thriving HVAC company known for its exceptional service and commitment to customers and employees alike.

Starting as a one-person operation, Mihai has expanded MCP HVAC to include 12 employees and eight trucks. He credits much of his success to SCORE mentors Mike and Gary. "They were great at asking the right questions and making me think critically," Mihai says. With their guidance, he expanded his business, hired key personnel and implemented essential systems. "SCORE gave me the insights I needed to navigate entrepreneurship."

Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed, and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ➡ https://score.org/peoria

📸: SCORE client Mihai Popescu, founder of MCP HVAC

Technology for Small Nonprofit Businesses - August 15 @ 12:00 PM EST
Register here: https://bit.ly/4dzuC4L
Technology doesn't just help nonprofits engage with donors and track outcomes, but it can also make them run more efficiently by streamlining their reporting and compliance procedures, increasing communication and cooperation (both internally and with outside stakeholders) and allowing them to allocate resources.

Dan Yurman is a workshop presenter and a SCORE Cleveland mentor. Dan can help nonprofits improve organizational performance, strategic planning, and the use of information technology, He also helps clients if their non-profit organization is involved in community economic development, especially with stakeholder engagement.

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⏳ Don’t miss out, Peoria owners! Secure your spot in our free workshop today!
To maximize your business website's return on investment, you need to be able to track its performance. Google Analytics allows you to see where your website traffic is coming from, identify your top-performing channels and gain insight into your visitors' behavior.

In this webinar, you’ll learn the basics of Google Analytics, how to track your website's performance, and how to turn these insights into action. Finally, you’ll learn how to increase leads and sales using your collected data.

Google Analytics for Small Businesses - How to Improve Your Website Traffic
Date & Time: August 14, 2024, 1:00 pm EDT
Live event (online)
Cost: $0.00
Duration: 1 Hour
Language: English
Register now ↓

Google Analytics for Small Businesses - How to Improve Your Website Traffic In this webinar, you'll learn the basics of Google Analytics, how to track your website's performance, and how to turn these insights into action.

08-14-24 - LinkedIn For Business: Getting Started, Using AI - August 14 @ 6:30 PM CST
Register here: https://bit.ly/3SDATnR
LinkedIn has been integrating AI features throughout the platform, making it easier to start building a footprint on the world's largest professional networking site. LinkedIn is owned by Microsoft which has invests heavily into open AI, which in turn is powering the platform's AI capabilities.

At this Workshop, we will give business owners insight into how to leverage these AI tools, giving them action items to:

Create Content
Refine Searches
Get real-time expert-informed answers
Design an end-to-end campaign to reach your B2B and B2C audience

score.tfaforms.net By checking this box, you consent to receive communications from SCORE and acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by SCORE’s Event Terms of Service, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.