SCORE Long Island is the local chapter of SCORE, a national nonprofit and resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration that has mentored small business owners for decades. Its volunteer mentors offer free, confidential business advice to entrepreneurs across Nassau and Suffolk counties.
Mentors are experienced business owners, bankers, accountants, and corporate executives who meet with you one-on-one about topics like choosing a legal structure, financing, business plans, and marketing. Mentoring is available in person at libraries around the Island, including Westbury, Brightwaters, Huntington Station, and Middle Island, as well as by phone, video, and email. SCORE also runs free or low-cost workshops and webinars, such as its Borrowers Bootcamp series on preparing for a loan.
SCORE is a great fit for anyone thinking about starting a business, as well as established owners who want an experienced, impartial sounding board.
Keep in mind that mentors are volunteers with different backgrounds, so if the first match isn’t right for your industry, it’s fine to ask for someone else. Mentors guide and advise; they won’t write your business plan or do the work for you.
For Long Island entrepreneurs, SCORE is one of the easiest and most affordable first stops.