SCORE is a nonprofit organization partnered with the SBA that provides free business mentoring to entrepreneurs and small business owners. With chapters across Texas, SCORE connects business owners with experienced volunteer mentors who provide guidance on starting, growing, and managing a business. This guide explains how SCORE mentoring works and how Texas businesses can take advantage of it.
What Is SCORE?
SCORE (originally the Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a national network of over 10,000 volunteer mentors. These mentors are experienced business professionals, including retired executives, entrepreneurs, and industry specialists, who donate their time to help small business owners.
How SCORE Mentoring Works
- Request a mentor: Visit score.org or contact your local SCORE chapter to request a mentor. You can specify your industry and the type of help you need.
- Get matched: SCORE matches you with a mentor whose experience aligns with your business and needs. If the first match is not ideal, you can request a different mentor.
- Meet regularly: Sessions can be in person, by phone, or by video. There is no time limit on the mentoring relationship. Many mentors meet with their mentees monthly or as needed.
- Work on your challenges: Your mentor provides guidance, asks questions, and helps you think through business challenges. They do not make decisions for you but help you make better decisions.
What SCORE Can Help With
- Starting a business (business plan, entity formation, initial planning)
- Marketing strategy and customer acquisition
- Financial management and cash flow planning
- Hiring and team building
- Pricing strategy
- Operations improvement
- Growth planning and scaling
- Navigating business challenges and setbacks
- Identifying funding sources and grant programs
Texas SCORE Chapters
Texas has SCORE chapters in major metropolitan areas and many smaller communities:
- Houston: One of the largest SCORE chapters nationally
- Dallas: Serves the Dallas metro with in-person and virtual mentoring
- San Antonio: Active chapter with regular workshops
- Austin: Serves the capital region
- Fort Worth: Serves Tarrant County and surrounding areas
- El Paso: Serves far west Texas
- Additional chapters in Corpus Christi, Lubbock, and other cities
SCORE Workshops and Events
Beyond one-on-one mentoring, SCORE offers free and low-cost workshops on topics including business plan writing, financial management, digital marketing, social media, and industry- specific topics. Many workshops are available online, making them accessible regardless of location.
Who Should Use SCORE
- Aspiring entrepreneurs who want guidance before starting
- New business owners who need a sounding board
- Established business owners facing specific challenges
- Business owners who want industry-specific advice from someone who has been there
- Anyone who values ongoing mentoring over one-time consulting
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
SCORE mentors can help you think through your business strategy, but identifying specific government programs requires a systematic screening of your eligibility.
Not sure which programs may fit your business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →