SCORE Mentors Chicago

Mike Bennett transformed his love of organic gardening into Backyard Eats, a thriving business that designs and maintains edible gardens. When Mike became co-owner of Backyard Eats, he knew scaling the business required more than a green thumb. With SCORE’s support, he streamlined financials, secured financing, refined pricing strategies and restructured team roles. The results included increased revenue, improved cash flow and a strong foundation for future growth. “SCORE provided high-level professional support that could literally cost tens of thousands of dollars,” Mike shares. “I’m hugely impressed with the whole SCORE organization.” Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ? https://score.org/chicago ??: SCORE client Mike Bennett, co-owner of Backyard Eats

With SCORE’s guidance, Amelia Houde turned her passion for unique, locally sourced gifts into Tide & True LLC, a charming gift shop in her community. “SCORE was a great resource. The training videos were so helpful and the mentor program is really an invaluable resource,” Amelia shares. Since opening in June 2024, Tide & True has become a community hub, supporting over 55 local artists and vendors. The shop’s events, like vendor pop-ups and Sip and Shops, bring the community together while offering gifts you won’t find in big box stores. With help from her SCORE mentor, Amelia refined her business plan, navigated tech and equipment decisions and built a strong foundation for success. Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ? https://score.org/chicago ??: SCORE client Amelia Houde, owner of Tide & True LLC #WomensHistoryMonth

Pricing For Enhanced Profits: Learning The Art And Science Of Pricing - March 26 @ 6:30 PM CST Register here: https://bit.ly/3FdB0m4 By attending this interactive zoom workshop, you will learn and be able to: *Define product cost and profit margin as part of a pricing strategy. *Use pro forma when developing the price position. *Determine methods of analyzing the competition. *Determine the use of target customer lifestyles and demographics in pricing. *Evaluate the differences between customer perception and reality. *Define the price value relationship of the product or service. *Determine the importance of the brand and claiming a market position. *Learn how to test the pricing strategy before implementation.

Business Plans 101 - March 26 @ 10:30 AM EST Register here: https://bit.ly/4kom1pC A business plan is a roadmap for your business. In this workshop, we'll cover the essential elements of business plan development, including setting goals & objectives, preparing marketing & financial plans, and defining steps to attain proper goals.

?? Register today, Chicago entrepreneurs! Our free #SmallBusiness workshop is filling up fast—don’t wait! Transform your online presence with high-converting landing pages – the cornerstone of successful digital marketing campaigns.. Join our comprehensive webinar, where our very own SCORE expert will guide you through proven strategies for landing page optimization and digital marketing success. How to Create a Landing Page for Your Business - A Step-by-Step Guide Date & Time: March 25, 2025, 1:00pm EDT Cost: $0.00 Duration: 1 Hour Language: English Live event (online) Register now ↓ https://bit.ly/4kaG8HO

Happy Sunday! ??

Financial Fundamentals - March 25 @ 6:30 PM CST Register here: https://bit.ly/4inLYnp Mastering financial fundamentals empowers small business owners to make smarter decisions, manage your finances confidently, and build sustainable growth and profitability. This workshop offers a comprehensive dive into essential financial literacy terms and is tailored to help entrepreneurs master cash flow management and navigate your financial landscape confidently. Meet the Presenter, Annette Brown, CPA Annette has been assisting many small business ventures with the financial aspects of their business for several years. She is dedicated to helping small business owners understand their finances and assisting Them in maintaining financial records.

Nia Obotette had always known that the power of stories could shape the future. As the founder of Your Life Has Purpose and author of the Exploring All I Can Do book series, Nia juggled writing, marketing and coordinating with illustrators—all while navigating the challenges of self-publishing. Through SCORE, Nia connected with a business mentor who offered practical strategies and unwavering support. “I tell everyone I know about SCORE,” Nia shares. “It’s an incredible, free resource that can make a huge difference for anyone looking to start or grow a business. [My mentor] has shown me that success doesn’t have to come with a price tag, and I’m so grateful for that.” Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ? https://score.org/chicago ??: SCORE client Nia Obotette, founder of Your Life Has Purpose #WomensHistoryMonth

Financial Management - March 21st @ 12:00 PM EST Register here: https://bit.ly/3Xl9gSH Join us in-depth review of financial management for the existing business or serious entrepreneur in pre-startup mode. We'll focus on the profit and loss statement, balance sheet and cash flow, as well as discuss expenses, startup costs, cash cycles, granting/receiving credit, pricing, inventory, asset acquisition, and financing options.

Michon Kelley’s lifelong connection with horses and passion for teaching led her to create The Horse Experience, a business that helps people build confidence, develop riding skills and experience the healing power of horses. When Michon wanted to turn her vision into a sustainable business, she turned to SCORE for guidance. Her mentors helped refine her business plan, offered strategic insights and provided the support needed to navigate challenges. “SCORE played a significant role in shaping the direction of my business,” Michon shares. Are you ready to take your business to the next level? SCORE offers a wealth of valuable resources to help you succeed and our experienced mentors are here to guide you every step of the way. ? https://score.org/chicago ??: SCORE client Michon Kelley, founder of The Horse Experience #WomensHistoryMonth