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Vanessa T. Childs
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Meeting Preference: Email, In Person, Phone, Video

Languages: English

How I Can Help You

I support entrepreneurs and small business owners in transforming sound ideas into sustainable, high-performing ventures. Drawing on more than two decades of cross-sector leadership experience—including business operations, nonprofit management, K-12 and higher education administration, and financial coaching—I provide practical, results-driven guidance that helps clients move from concept to execution with confidence.

As a certified financial education instructor, I specialize in strengthening both personal and business financial positioning. I help clients build and repair credit, adopt sound budgeting and cash-flow strategies, and position themselves for capital through grants, lending opportunities, and other funding channels.

My work as a facilitator for the Southern Palmetto Regional Chamber’s Propel Business Lab and Artisan Kitchen Lab has afforded me hands-on experience supporting rural entrepreneurs through launch, stabilization, and growth. That role underscored the strategic importance of connecting underserved communities—specifically in Barnwell, Allendale, and Bamberg counties—with high-quality mentorship and business development resources. Through SCORE, I aim to bridge that gap by serving as a strong liaison between the Chamber and SCORE, ensuring local entrepreneurs benefit from SCORE’s national network, tools, and best-in-class advisory support.

I also bring a deep understanding of community development and rural economic revitalization. Entrepreneurs in smaller markets often face unique barriers: limited access to capital, fewer mentors, and lower market visibility. I am committed to leveling the playing field by helping rural founders gain the knowledge, structure, and strategic insight needed to launch and scale with confidence.

My coaching approach is collaborative and pragmatic. I translate complex business and financial concepts into clear, actionable steps, ensuring every client leaves with a roadmap they can immediately implement. Ultimately, I partner with clients to help them clarify goals, troubleshoot challenges, and build sustainable, mission-aligned businesses that can grow for years to come.

Areas of Expertise

  • Accounting & Finance
  • Budgeting
  • Business Plan
  • Business Structure
  • Customer Service
  • Financial Literacy
  • Funding/Loans
  • Human Resources
  • Management & Operations
  • Strategy Development
  • Tax Planning
  • Work/Life Balance

Industry Experience

  • Business Consulting & Coaching
  • Education
  • Nonprofit
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CONNECT
712 H St NE PMB 98848
Washington, DC 20002
1-800-634-0245

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Funded, in part, through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.

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