Behind every thriving small business is often a great mentor—and many of those mentors happen to be retirees. On Varsity’s Roundtable Talk, Bridget Weston, CEO of SCORE, shared how her organization connects experienced professionals with the next generation of entrepreneurs, fueling purpose, innovation, and community impact.
Derek and Bridget discussed how SCORE pairs seasoned professionals with younger entrepreneurs, how older mentors stay engaged and purposeful through volunteering and the role of encore entrepreneurs (age 55+) in starting new ventures.
The following are some fresh perspectives from the conversation. Check out the full episode here.
WHAT IS SCORE AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
SCORE is a connected network that reaches across the country of experienced business mentors who volunteer their time and expertise to help anyone looking to start, grow, or even struggling to sustain a small business.
WHY DO YOU THINK SO MANY OLDER ADULTS ARE DRAWN TO MENTORING?
Our volunteers have years of valuable experience—both successes and failures—and they want to help others avoid the same pitfalls. Mentoring gives them a way to share their expertise while staying connected and engaged. Many tell us they get as much from the relationship as their mentees do. They build friendships, stay mentally sharp, and continue learning through co-mentoring and communities of practice focused on everything from AI to agriculture.
HOW DOES SCORE HELP OLDER ADULTS STAY ENGAGED AND PURPOSEFUL?
SCORE naturally attracts lifelong learners—people who want to stay sharp and connected. We offer continuous education on topics like technology, policy, and workforce trends, as well as communities of practice where volunteers can explore their interests. These groups not only keep mentors learning but also allow them to give back in meaningful, impactful ways. Many volunteers say they feel just as fulfilled—if not more—after a mentoring session as their clients do.
WHAT ARE SOME SUCCESS STORIES THAT STAND OUT TO YOU?
There are hundreds. We’ve had a veteran who invented new backpacking gear now selling nationwide, an entrepreneur who created nap pods for airports, and food truck owners who grew into brick-and-mortar restaurants. Our mentors often form long-term relationships with clients—attending weddings, funerals, and major life events. It’s incredibly rewarding to see their impact not just on businesses, but on entire communities.
WHAT ROLE DOES SCORE PLAY IN STRENGTHENING LOCAL COMMUNITIES?
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and our neighborhoods. They’re the ones sponsoring little league teams, supporting local events, and keeping communities vibrant. By helping small businesses succeed, we’re strengthening the fabric of local life. When entrepreneurs thrive, communities thrive.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OLDER ADULTS LOOKING FOR MEANINGFUL WAYS TO GIVE BACK?
Join SCORE. But more broadly, find something that lights a fire in you—something that lets you go to bed thinking, “I made the world a little better today.” Whether it’s through SCORE or another organization, giving back is deeply fulfilling. Many of our volunteers say they feel just as rewarded as the entrepreneurs they help, because service gives purpose and connection.
Want to hear more from Bridget? Check out the full episode of Roundtable Talk for more fresh perspectives. Watch new episodes of Roundtable Talk on the Varsity website and on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.
