SCORE Sanfranciscoeastbay
Free business mentoring from SCORE volunteers in Oakland, CA. 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 Oakland, CA area.
SCORE San Francisco East Bay is a free mentoring resource center serving the Oakland, CA area and surrounding communities. As an official resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE provides confidential, one-on-one business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals at no cost. Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs nationwide start, grow, and succeed in their businesses. The Oakland chapter specializes in personalized guidance across all critical business areas including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, operations, and more. Whether you're in the early stages of launching a startup or looking to scale an established business, SCORE mentors offer practical, real-world advice tailored to your specific challenges and goals. All services are completely free and confidential, making SCORE an invaluable resource for Oakland-area entrepreneurs seeking expert guidance without the cost of hiring a business consultant. SCORE mentors bring decades of combined experience across diverse industries, ensuring you receive relevant, actionable advice from people who have successfully built and managed businesses themselves.
Services Offered
Program Type
SCORE Chapter - SBA Resource Partner
Cost
Free
Services
Free one-on-one business mentoring, business plan development and review, financial management guidance, marketing strategy, startup counseling, growth planning, business workshops
Best For
Startup founders, small business owners, entrepreneurs seeking expert guidance, business growth and expansion, first-time business owners, established businesses facing new challenges
Focus Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does SCORE San Francisco East Bay provide?
SCORE San Francisco East Bay offers free, confidential one-on-one business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and professionals. Services include assistance with business planning, market research and analysis, marketing and sales strategy, financial management and bookkeeping basics, startup guidance, business growth strategies, and operational improvements. Mentors also review business plans, help with financial projections, and provide guidance on securing funding. In addition to individual mentoring, SCORE offers free and low-cost workshops on various business topics throughout the Oakland area.
Is SCORE San Francisco East Bay free to use?
Yes, all SCORE mentoring services are completely free. As an SBA resource partner, SCORE is funded to provide free business mentoring and counseling to entrepreneurs. There are no hidden fees, membership costs, or charges for connecting with a mentor. You only pay for optional workshops if you choose to attend, and many of those are also free or very low-cost. This makes SCORE an exceptional value for Oakland-area business owners seeking expert guidance.
Who can use SCORE San Francisco East Bay?
SCORE services are available to anyone interested in starting a business, currently running a small business, or seeking to grow their existing enterprise in the Oakland, CA area. There are no income requirements, business size restrictions, or eligibility barriers. SCORE serves first-time entrepreneurs, established business owners, nonprofit leaders, and individuals exploring self-employment. Whether you operate a service business, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, or any other industry type, SCORE mentors can provide valuable guidance tailored to your business needs.
How do I get started with SCORE San Francisco East Bay?
Getting started with SCORE is simple. Visit the SCORE San Francisco East Bay website or contact their Oakland office directly. You'll complete a brief intake form describing your business and mentoring needs. SCORE will then match you with an experienced mentor who has relevant expertise in your industry or business challenge. Your first meeting is typically conducted either in-person at a SCORE office or virtually via phone or video conference. Mentoring relationships are flexible and ongoing, allowing you to build a sustained advisory relationship with your mentor as your business evolves.
Last updated: February 28, 2026