There is no template for Business Retention and Expansion – there are always different issues, people, businesses, and many more unique features. However, across the board, communities need to give extra TLC to their small businesses who can use all of the support and advice that they can. One resource that you can share as a part of your BRE efforts is starting a SCORE program in your community.
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a nonprofit association of retired executives that meet one-on-one with those seeking advice about their business. The association is supported by the Small Business Administration and has more than 10,000 volunteers nation-wide. These mentors are a great resource for your community. SCORE also provides free business tools and webinars online, as well as local workshops.
How should you get involved?
- Reach out to SCORE and set up one or two days a month where a mentor can visit your chamber or other community building and meet with your local business people. If this grows in popularity, make it a standing weekly appointment with the mentor.
- You could also set up a Lunch and Learn with one of their SCORE’s workshops.
- Another option is to print out some of their online information for small businesses and give it as a takeaway during your BRE visits. Examples of their online materials includes balance sheet templates and articles. One of their most recent articles is “5 Mistakes Small Business Owners Make Online.”
Most of SCORE’s resources are free and extremely helpful in cultivating your small businesses to grow and prosper. Check out their website for more information: https://www.score.org/
Banner Photo Credit: FreeImages.com/Andrzej Pobiedzinski
