Episode Details

QUOTES

“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 or grow or is struggling in a small business.” (Bridget)

“Like small businesses need to do, we need to evolve as an organization as well.” (Bridget)

“Because SCORE had already seen that virtual was a viable path to connecting with people, we were able to move to virtual mentoring and virtual education without missing a beat. We didn’t miss a day of service.” (Bridget)

“We can’t lose that human touch and that human connection. That personal touch, I believe, will always need to be there.” (Bridget)

“If you meet with a business mentor for three hours, you are five times more likely to increase your revenue.” (Bridget)

“One of the top commonalities that all of the SCORE volunteers have is that they want to help others to make sure that they can have an easier time of succeeding in their small business.” (Bridget)

“It helps them to feel not only that they’re giving back, but they’re getting something in return by connecting with these people.” (Bridget)

“Mentoring is free. You can meet with a mentor one time, you can meet with a mentor 1,000 times. It is always free.” (Bridget)

“On average, people stay at SCORE to volunteer for five plus years. If it wasn’t fulfilling, if it wasn’t engaging, you would go and find another opportunity.” (Bridget)

“It is this beautiful relationship that can develop over time. I know mentors who have been invited to their clients’ children’s weddings, to christenings, to funerals.” (Bridget)

“You don’t have to be an expert in all things, but you also don’t have to be alone. Let us help you.” (Bridget)

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Without a strong economy, we don’t have as strong of communities.” (Bridget)

NOTES

Bridget Weston is the CEO of SCORE, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit networks dedicated to supporting small business owners. With more than 16 years at the organization, she leads its mission of mentoring, education and community impact.

SCORE is a national nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration, offering free mentoring and education to entrepreneurs. With thousands of volunteer mentors across the country, SCORE empowers small business owners at every stage of growth, from idea to exit strategy.

Founded over 60 years ago by retired DuPont executives, SCORE has evolved beyond its original “Service Corps of Retired Executives” identity to welcome working professionals and leaders from diverse backgrounds. Today, 30% of SCORE’s volunteers are still actively working, ensuring clients benefit from fresh perspectives as well as seasoned expertise. In 2023 alone, SCORE helped launch more than 54,000 businesses and add 83,000 jobs to the economy.

SCORE evolved from an organization of retired executives to a diverse network of working and retired professionals volunteering their expertise.

The organization anticipated the shift toward virtual mentoring before the pandemic and now serves more than 80% of clients virtually.

While embracing technology and AI, SCORE emphasizes that human connection and personal touch remain essential to mentoring.

SCORE serves a wide range of entrepreneurs, from microbusinesses and restaurants to government contractors and encore entrepreneurs (55+).

Volunteers often stay with SCORE for five or more years because the experience is rewarding and deeply meaningful.

Mentoring is always free, allowing entrepreneurs to access guidance as often as they need.

SCORE partnerships—with SBA, AARP, universities and local organizations—expand reach and connect mentors with both younger and older entrepreneurs.

Small businesses are “the backbone of our economy,” and SCORE’s work strengthens communities across the country.