There’s a reason why 92% of Fortune 500 companies offer mentoring programs to their employees. Mentors improve employee retention and engagement. They can also positively impact a business’s financial goals. As National Mentoring Month, January is a great time for entrepreneurs—especially emerging small business owners—to consider connecting with a mentor. The SBA’s resource partner network is full of experts who can help guide you to small business success via training, access to funding, and more.
- SCORE Business Mentors. The proof is in the numbers: In 2022 alone, SCORE helped start 30,453 businesses and create a total of 112,570 jobs. SCORE’s network of volunteer experts is 10,000 strong, providing confidential, no-cost business resources and education services in all 50 U.S. states and territories. And they’ve been doing it for nearly 60 years. Entrepreneurs who partner with SCORE enjoy mentoring, webinars, workshops, a full library of online resources, and more. To request a mentor match, browse mentor profiles, or find your local SCORE chapter, visit score.org/find-mentor.
- Small Business Development Centers. High-quality, personalized advising, technical assistance, problem-solving support, and more can be found at Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs). With nearly 1,000 locations, SBDCs represent the most comprehensive small business network in the U.S.
- Veterans Business Outreach Centers. For service members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses interested in starting or growing a small business, Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) are one-stop-shops. At 28 locations across the U.S., VBOCs provide business training, counseling, partner referrals, and program navigation.
- Women’s Business Centers. Representing a national network of more than 130 community-based centers, Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) help women entrepreneurs level the playing field. WBCs offer tailored services such as training, as well as assistance with contracting opportunities and access to credit and capital.
- SBA Resource Partner Events. The SBA regularly co-hosts events, many of which feature SBA resource partners. These events—often offered online, in-person, or through hybrid models—focus on a variety of topics and are excellent opportunities to link up with a potential mentor.
Start the new business year right by exploring your mentoring options! Search the SBA’s network of resource partners today.