SCORE Chicago

Serving 9 locations in Cook County

Our Mentors are experienced entrepreneurs, corporate managers, and executives with a diverse set of industries and specialties who volunteer their experience and knowledge to help small business professionals start, develop, and grow businesses. We offer free and confidential mentoring along with low-cost or no-cost business training, and numerous templates and tools.

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Business Plan Series Recorded Webinars

This webinar series covers the key elements of creating an effective business plan. Over multiple recorded sessions, experienced entrepreneurs and business experts guide viewers through 6 parts of a strategic plan. The series is designed for both new entrepreneurs and established business owners looking to refine their strategies.

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Amazon Seller Success Series 2024

Sponsored by Amazon

Unlock the secrets to Amazon selling success with our free webinar series. Learn everything from setting up your seller account to advanced growth strategies, directly from Amazon experts. Perfect for new & existing sellers aiming to boost their business on Amazon.

Learn More and Register

Two women happily preparing clothing items for shipment in a small business setting.

Women's Small Business Month celebrates the incredible impact of women-owned businesses on our economy. It shines a light on the accomplishments and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs while encouraging support and investment in their growth. Organizations like SCORE play an essential role by providing resources, mentorship, and guidance to help women-owned businesses succeed. Check out the Women's Entrepreneurs Hub for resources and webinars created especially for women in business.

SCORE has the support you need to thrive, just like Teresa Williams, owner of Therayology. “SCORE was instrumental in my journey. With my mentor's guidance, I navigated the complexities of growing my business, from developing a strategic marketing plan to managing finances. The mentorship provided not only expertise but also the confidence to overcome challenges and achieve my vision.”

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SCORE for All

We believe that anyone can start and manage a successful small business. We also know that the road is harder for some than for others. Diverse backgrounds, different voices and unique needs may call for specialized resources and mentoring approaches. SCORE is listening, recognizes these diverse needs, and provides personalized support in a wholly-inclusive platform called SCORE for All.

Visit SCORE for All

Karen Foley, Executive Director, Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition; Todd Snovel, Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition Board Member; Larry Keating, and Bob Thomas, SCORE volunteer mentors.

Impact Your Community

Since 1964, SCORE has educated and mentored more than 11 million small business owners and entrepreneurs. We're looking for people with diverse backgrounds and experiences to serve in a variety of roles — from knowledgeable business mentors to local community advocates.

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Upcoming Events

A Business Guide to Reporting Beneficial Ownership Information

Learn about the new reporting requirements Under the Corporate Transparency Act and how to report your business's Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI).

10-10-24 Taxes for Owners: How to be compliant from Day 1

Are you starting a new business and confused over your tax responsibilities? Learn everything a new business owner needs to know to be fully compliant from day one from Harry Eng, CPA, Enrolled Agent and Fellow of the National Tax Practice Institute

New Product Development - Part 2

The webinar is Part 2 of a 3 Part Series. The webinar will address: How to recognize a good idea & develop it into a product.
Part-1 Identifying
Part-2 Developing
Part-3 Commercializing

SCORE Chicago wins the 2022 Illinois Chapter of the Year Award

SCORE Chicago wins the 2022 Illinois Chapter of the Year Award. Our chapter's excellence is a reflection of our volunteers and the clients we've served. Our volunteers have worked exceptionally hard through a difficult year and persevered to provide valuable mentoring and educational opportunities to clients facing unprecedented challenges.

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Illinois Chapter of the Year Award for 2022