SCORE Southernminnesota
Free business mentoring from SCORE volunteers in Rochester, MN. 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 Rochester, MN area.
SCORE Southernminnesota is a free mentoring resource center serving entrepreneurs in the Rochester, MN area and surrounding communities. As an official resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE provides confidential, expert guidance from experienced business mentors at absolutely no cost to you. Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 17 million entrepreneurs nationwide successfully start and grow their businesses. The center specializes in one-on-one mentoring sessions where seasoned business professionals and entrepreneurs offer personalized advice on critical business topics including business planning, market analysis, financial management, operations, marketing strategies, and growth planning. Whether you're in the early stages of developing a business idea, launching a startup, or looking to expand an existing operation, SCORE Southernminnesota connects you with mentors who have real-world experience in your industry. All mentoring services are completely confidential and tailored to your specific business needs and challenges. The center also offers workshops and networking opportunities to help you build connections within the local business community. SCORE's mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and confidence needed to achieve their business goals.
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 planning, business growth consulting, educational workshops, industry-specific expertise
Best For
Startup founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners seeking growth, women business owners, veterans, anyone in the Rochester, MN area wanting expert business guidance
Focus Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does SCORE Southernminnesota provide?
SCORE Southernminnesota offers free, confidential one-on-one business mentoring from experienced entrepreneurs and business professionals. Services include guidance on business planning and strategy, financial management and accounting, marketing and sales strategies, operations management, startup planning, business growth and expansion planning, and industry-specific advice. The center also hosts educational workshops and provides access to online resources and tools to support your business success.
Is SCORE Southernminnesota free to use?
Yes, absolutely. All SCORE mentoring services, including one-on-one consultations and group workshops, are completely free. As an SBA resource partner, SCORE is funded through the Small Business Administration to provide no-cost business assistance to entrepreneurs. There are no hidden fees, membership costs, or charges for any mentoring services.
Who can use SCORE Southernminnesota?
SCORE Southernminnesota serves entrepreneurs at all stages, including aspiring business owners developing business ideas, startup founders launching new ventures, small business owners seeking to improve operations, women entrepreneurs, veterans, and established business owners looking to grow or pivot their businesses. There are no eligibility restrictions based on business size, industry, or background. Anyone in the Rochester, MN area interested in starting or growing a business can access SCORE mentoring services.
How do I get started with SCORE Southernminnesota?
To get started, contact SCORE Southernminnesota directly through their website or phone. You'll have an initial conversation to discuss your business goals and needs. A mentor will then be matched with you based on their experience and expertise. You can schedule one-on-one mentoring sessions at times convenient for you, either in-person or online. The process is simple and designed to get you connected with experienced guidance as quickly as possible.
Last updated: February 28, 2026