SCORE Can Help Small Businesses Even in Trying Economic Times

ST. LOUIS - Dec. 21, 2014 - PRLog -- Small businesses can find guidance and hope even in tough economic times through SCORE, a non-profit organization in St. Louis providing mentorship and counseling for small businesses of any kind.

SCORE’s team of volunteers includes former business personnel from a wide range of industries, including Andrew Armstrong, a former small business owner.

“One of the things I enjoy most when I have the opportunity in business is mentoring, both sales people and other people in the business to allow them grow,” he said. “SCORE has given me that vehicle to allow me to do that counseling and mentoring.”

SCORE offers cyber and face-to-face one-on-one counseling, local workshops and seminars for small businesses. They can also help a business plan get off the ground by finding funding and other services, according to Armstrong.

Most of the services of SCORE are completely free, but they do charge small fees for some seminars to cover costs for venues or speakers from organizations outside of SCORE.

“We are signed to confidentialities,” he said. “We are sworn to and sign agreements that we can’t disclose specific mentoring.”

Those who sign up for counseling and state what there needs are will be provided with mentors who can meet their needs and concerns free of charge, according to Armstrong. Other services include seminars dealing with how to start a business, importance of a business plan, and various other topics.

There is a SCORE Chapter in St. Louis. The average volunteer at SCORE spends 25 to 30 hours a month committed to the organization. “Mentoring and getting businesses off the ground. It’s our reason for being,” said Armstrong.

If you or someone you know is starting their own small business or has one already established, the SCORE Association has programs to help you get started and keep you business running.

Remember, starting and running your own business can be a daunting and tedious task.  But with desire, perseverance, and resources such as those offered by SCORE, take charge of your career, accomplish your professional goals and find success in your efforts toward living a life of financial freedom.

To make an appointment for counseling or register to attend one of the chapter's workshops, visit www.stlouis.score.org  A counselor will call and set an appointment.

The SCORE Association Chapter 21

1222 Spruce Street, Suite 10.103

St. Louis, MO 63103,

314-539-6602