SCORE Desmoines
Free business mentoring from SCORE volunteers in Des Moines, IA. Part of the SBA's network of business advisors.
About
SCORE provides free, confidential business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals. As a resource partner of the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses since 1964. SCORE mentors offer personalized guidance on business planning, marketing, financial management, and more. All mentoring services are provided at no cost to you. This chapter serves: Serving the Des Moines, IA area.
SCORE Desmoines is a premier resource for entrepreneurs in the Des Moines, Iowa area seeking expert business guidance and mentoring. As a SCORE chapter partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), this center provides free, confidential mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and seasoned business professionals. SCORE Desmoines has been instrumental in helping millions of entrepreneurs since 1964, offering personalized guidance across critical business functions including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, operations, and growth planning. Whether you're launching a startup, expanding an existing business, or facing specific operational challenges, SCORE mentors deliver tailored advice based on real-world business experience. The center serves the greater Des Moines area and welcomes entrepreneurs at all stages of business development. All mentoring services are provided completely free of charge, making professional business guidance accessible to every entrepreneur regardless of financial resources. Beyond one-on-one mentoring, SCORE Desmoines often facilitates workshops and training sessions addressing common business challenges. This SBA resource partner commitment ensures that local entrepreneurs have access to quality business expertise without the expense of hiring costly consultants.
Services Offered
Program Type
SCORE Chapter - SBA Resource Partner
Cost
Free
Services
Free business mentoring, business plan development and review, marketing strategy guidance, financial management counseling, startup consultation, growth planning, business workshops and training
Best For
Startup founders, first-time entrepreneurs, established business owners seeking growth, small business operators in Des Moines, Iowa area
Focus Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does SCORE Desmoines provide?
SCORE Desmoines offers completely free, confidential business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals. Services include personalized guidance on business planning and development, marketing strategy and execution, financial management and bookkeeping, cash flow planning, business growth strategies, startup guidance, and operational improvement. Mentors also review business plans, provide feedback on business ideas, and help entrepreneurs navigate common business challenges. Many SCORE chapters also host free or low-cost workshops and training sessions on relevant business topics.
Is SCORE Desmoines free to use?
Yes, all SCORE Desmoines mentoring services are completely free. As an official SBA resource partner, SCORE provides confidential business mentoring at no cost to entrepreneurs. There are no hidden fees, application charges, or membership costs. This makes professional business guidance accessible to entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and financial situations. Some workshops may occasionally have nominal fees, but core mentoring services remain free.
Who can use SCORE Desmoines?
SCORE Desmoines serves anyone interested in starting or growing a business in the Des Moines area. This includes first-time entrepreneurs, established business owners seeking growth strategies, family business operators, veterans interested in entrepreneurship, and individuals exploring business ideas. There are no income restrictions or business size requirements. Whether you're pre-launch or managing an established company, SCORE mentors welcome the opportunity to help you succeed.
How do I get started with SCORE Desmoines?
Getting started with SCORE Desmoines is simple and free. Visit the SCORE website or contact SCORE Desmoines directly to request a mentor match. You'll complete a brief intake process describing your business and mentoring goals. SCORE will then match you with an experienced mentor who has relevant expertise for your specific situation. Most mentors offer flexible scheduling with options for in-person, phone, or video mentoring sessions. Initial consultations typically occur within one to two weeks of your request.
Last updated: February 28, 2026