As a small business owner in Cleveland, you’re not alone on your entrepreneurial journey. Organizations like SCORE Cleveland are dedicated to providing free, expert guidance to help you plan, launch, manage, and grow your business.
What Is SCORE?
SCORE is a nonprofit organization and a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). With over 10,000 volunteer mentors nationwide, SCORE offers free business mentoring, educational workshops and more. Their services cover a wide range of topics, including business planning, marketing, finance, and human resources. Mentoring is available in-person, via email, phone, or video, and is tailored to your specific needs.
SCORE Cleveland: Local Expertise at Your Fingertips
SCORE Cleveland serves Northeast Ohio, including Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Geauga, Ashtabula, Huron, Erie, and Trumbull counties. Their mentors are seasoned professionals with real-world experience who are ready to assist small business owners at any stage of the business journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, SCORE Cleveland provides personalized support to help you achieve your goals. SCORE Cleveland’s impact is significant. In 2022, they were honored as the National Chapter of the Year, recognized for their outstanding mentoring and educational support to small businesses. This accolade highlights their commitment to fostering a vibrant small business community in the region.
One of the most compelling reasons small business owners should look to SCORE is the unparalleled access to experienced, objective advice at no cost. Unlike consultants who charge hefty fees, SCORE mentors volunteer their time to help entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions. Whether you’re struggling with cash flow, exploring marketing strategies, or preparing to scale, SCORE offers a trusted sounding board of professionals who have “been there and done that.” Their mentorship can save you time, money, and frustration—making it an invaluable resource as you navigate the challenges of running a business.
What About SBDCs?
In addition to SCORE, small business owners can benefit from the services of Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs). While SCORE provides mentorship and workshops, SBDCs focus on one-on-one counseling and training—together, these organizations form a robust support system for entrepreneurs. Often housed within universities, colleges, or economic development agencies, SBDCs provide one-on-one business counseling, market research, assistance with loan packaging, and help with regulatory compliance. They’re especially valuable for startups seeking help with business plans or for established businesses exploring new markets or improving operations. By combining academic insights with real-world expertise, SBDCs serve as a bridge between education and enterprise, helping business owners make data-driven decisions and grow sustainably. Cleveland has SBDCs at both Cleveland State University and the Urban League of Greater Cleveland.
Work with Growth Capital
Not sure if you’re ready to dive in with SCORE? Let’s chat first! Our team would love to talk with you about your business goals to help you determine the best next step. Contact us today!