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Resources for Black Entrepreneurs

Black small business owners and their communities have faced extraordinary challenges over the years. SCORE is renewing our commitment to being part of the solution. We’re here to give you the tools to meet and overcome any business challenge so that you can succeed.

Portia White, Owner of Better with a Cup Of Coffee
We spoke with our clients to fully understand the challenges facing Black small business owners today.

Before most Black entrepreneurs even open their doors, they face a range of obstacles, from a lack of capital to difficulty accessing government programs—not to mention encountering bias and racism along the way.

Portia shares "The first thing that I've learned from being a business owner is that there is no "i" in TEAM. I will always need help. This is the main reason why I reached out to SCORE."

Read about Portia's Success
Get Free Business Advice From Experienced Mentors

SCORE business mentors can help you start, grow, or transition your business. Enter your zip code to get matched with a business expert near you!

Hear from our Mentors!


Head shot of Cynthia Rhodes
Cynthia Rhodes

"As a small business owner, who has had to figure out the recipe to my own business success and have built that business helping other companies and institutions succeed, SCORE provides an avenue for entrepreneurs and business owners to access someone like me who not only listens, but hears them and guides them without judgment toward the success that only they can define at that specific moment in life and in business."

Headshot of Willie Johnson
Willie R Johnson

"My interest in becoming a SCORE Mentor stems from my desire to give time to aspiring entrepreneurs assisting them with different resources and mentorship along the way. I believe as a veteran business owner growth and volunteerism in the local community is an amazing way to give back."

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Sheryl Mays

"I am a business and personal coach, working with individuals on business development, motivaiton, inspiration and tools to achieve their goals. I always listen with the intent to understand and use models specifically for communication, insight and to gain a better understanding of the issues."

Black Entrepreneurs Who Turned to SCORE as a Partner in Their Success

With SCORE by your side, you don't have to go it alone. SCORE has helped countless Black entrepreneurs find success in their small businesses. See how SCORE has helped some of the small business owners start and grow their small businesses. Yours could be the next success story!

Tonyia Smith, Owner of Silver Slice Bakery
Silver Slice Bakery
Silver Slice Bakery's success: Leveraging SCORE mentorship to expand its gluten-free pizza crust business, including a partnership with Hormel Foods.
Chris Gauthier and Jerry Dutreuil
Health Sitter Solutions LLC
Health Sitter Solutions: Remote patient video monitoring for hospitals nationwide. A unique subscription model with 24/7 support.
Michelle Williams and Stephanie Aiesi
Kidney Innovations
Kidney Innovations: Transforming Healthcare Education in Savannah, GA. Our Kidney Greenways program uses tech to empower CKD patients. Proud SCORE client.
Candice
Cohen Brand Management: Delivering Unimaginable Ideas and Big Dreams
When Candice Cohen, Founder and CEO, of Cohen Brand Management, selected as the recipient of the Better Business Bureau Business (BBB) Torch Award
Casco Bay Owner and Employee
Casco Bay Cleaning
Manasse's inspiring journey from Rwandan coffee to Casco Bay Cleaning Services - A tale of resilience, entrepreneurship, and community impact. SCORE 2023 Awardee.
Tonyia Smith, Owner of Silver Slice Bakery
Tonyia Smith, Owner of Silver Slice Bakery
Small Business Journey

"I recommend SCORE to anyone who wants to start a business or is already in business.  Success is always under construction. The experience and knowledge that the mentors have is not found in any books I read thus far. It feels good to know that you are not alone and you’ll get the tools, insight, inspiration, knowledge, motivation and understanding to continue on your entrepreneurial journey." 

Check Out Her Journey
Resources for Black Entrepreneurs

Not sure where to begin? Check out these articles and resources for Black entrepreneurs.

black-carpenter-closing-racial-wealth-gap
How Minority-Owned Businesses Can Close Racial Wealth Gaps and Rebuild the U.S. Economy
Nahla Davies dives into how this gap impacts all businesses and provides tips to promote equality.
Black couple who owns bar standing behind the counter smiling
10 Essential Resources for Black Business Owners
There are programs that offer education, support and grants specifically for Black-owned businesses. Black entrepreneurs can benefit from these resources.
black business owner facing camera smiling
Fundamentals of Financial Literacy for Black-Owned Businesses

Financial literacy is the key that unlocks the door to economic empowerment and generational wealth.

As a black-owned business, it is crucial to equip yourself with the financial literacy and expertise needed to overcome systemic barriers, seize opportunities and build a thriving business.

Optimizing financial literacy empowers black-owned businesses, leading to increased financial stability, access to capital, wealth creation and resilience in the face of challenges.

man going over his finances
12 Funding Options for Black-Owned Businesses
To help Black-owned businesses identify the best funding sources available, we asked CEOs and business leaders this question for their best insights. From the iFundWomen of Color Program to Reign Ventures, there are several options available particularly for Black business owners to secure funding for their businesses. 
Black business owners
How To Find Funding Opportunities For Black-Owned Businesses
Understand funding and financial opportunities are available to business owners in the Black community.
Two businessmen shaking hands in agreement
7 Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses
Explore effective strategies for supporting Black-owned businesses, including increasing visibility, direct engagement, partnerships and advocacy for equity to foster innovation and diversity in the business world.
Volunteer with SCORE

Support small businesses in your community. SCORE is 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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712 H St NE PMB 98848
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Copyright © 2024 SCORE Association, SCORE.org

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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