Black Business · Reported explainer
Where business owners can begin looking for a mentor
The SBA’s resource-partner directory connects entrepreneurs with counseling and training organizations. Here is how to start the search.
This original explainer is based on the linked public sources. No interviews were conducted for this article.
Entrepreneurs looking for someone to talk through a business question can begin with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s resource-partner directory. The agency points readers to a network that includes Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, SCORE, and Veterans Business Outreach Centers.
SCORE offers mentoring on subjects such as business planning, financing, and human resources. The SBA describes that advice as available at no cost, with conversations offered through channels including email, phone, and video. Its local-assistance search helps readers locate partners by ZIP code.
The directory is a starting point, not a promise of funding or a guarantee that every service fits every business. Contact the organization directly to confirm its availability, eligibility requirements, and any training fees.
Before reaching out, write down your specific question, your business stage, and the kind of help you need. A focused request can make an initial conversation more useful. Readers can also explore Catalyst’s professional network through the link on our Black Business page; Catalyst and SBA services are separate resources.