Using SCORE and the SBA
In case you are not familiar with the US Small Business Association (SBA) here is your chance to learn about it before your friends recoil in shock and horror. This is a great resource for any business – old or nascent.
This group is comprised of VERY experienced, retired business executives with the mission of facilitating success from small businesses. You can also use SCORE which allows you to find a consultant and converse with them online here.
With something like 80-90% of new businesses failing within the first 2 years this is a critical resource. I’ve used the SBA and SCORE extensively, from developing business plans to implementing marketing strategies. I’ve received invaluable mentoring along the way. Like any good thing you only get out what you put in. In the past I’ve set weekly meetings with counselors to keep on track. I would produce reports and provide detailed analysis. If you are serious about your business succeeding I can’t recommend this more highly – at least at the beginning stages.
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