SCORE one for entrepreneurs in need

The SCORE program provides assistance to any prospective, current or retiring business owner, through an extensive mentorship network. The program can be accessed anywhere, although there is a regional office in Billings and volunteers and coordinators are available locally. There is no cost for the services, making it attractive to anyone seeking business advice from a knowledgeable source. “Our chapter in Billings covers eastern Montana and northern Wyoming,” said Robert Hughes, chairman and certified mentor for the Billings chapter. “But, we can find experts in any field or with the specific knowledge to help.” Hughes said that many of the volunteers are retired while others are still in business. “Each of them has a specialty, so depending on the issue we know who can provide the best advice,” he said. Someone just going into business may need help with a business plan or figuring out the best bookkeeping software. Another business person may want to reorganize or find ways to maximize profits or develop an advertising strategy. “Besides the local volunteers, we can tap into the talents of folks from around the country,” Hughes said, “and, in addition to mentors, SCORE offers webinars every week on important topics and interactive online training that can help entrepreneurs with everything from writing a business plan to determining what legal structure is best for their company to finding investors.” SCORE puts valuable information in one spot at SCORE.org for anyone to access. While anyone starting a business will have concerns, some may need information specific to the type of business they want to build. “A restaurant owner will have different issues to deal with than a pet shop owner, for example,” said Mike Mariola, who with his wife Emily, owns a chain of restaurants in Ohio known as The RAIL. Mariola sought SCORE’s assistance to find a mentor with restaurant-specific experience. He continues to seek advice several times a year and has built a relationship with mentor Robert Earp. “Following the SCORE mentor’s advice will get you out of your comfort zone, and that is where you will really start to shine,’ Mariola said. “Earp asked tough questions from day one to help me evaluate our business model and to plan for future growth.” SCORE is one of several programs designed to work with local business owners to help them be a success, according to Hughes. “There are business workshops through the local economic development authority, HRDC and other agencies,” he said. “But, we are the only one providing mentors. Our clients can meet with one or more mentors to provide guidance and that mentorship can last for years or it may just be a one-time consultation.” Mentorships through SCORE can be conducted in person, via phone, email or Skype. There are 16 mentors that belong to the Billings’ chapter with a broad range of expertise. The organization is funded through the Small Business Association which provides money for marketing and travel. For more information, to volunteer or request a mentor, call Hughes at (406) 927-7640, (907) 230-6876, or reach him by email at bob.hughes@scorevolunteer.org