SCORE Western North Carolina
Free business mentoring from SCORE volunteers in Asheville, NC. 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 Asheville, NC area.
SCORE Western North Carolina is a premier SBA resource partner dedicated to helping entrepreneurs in the Asheville, NC area start, manage, and grow successful businesses. As a SCORE chapter, this center provides free, confidential mentoring from experienced business professionals and entrepreneurs who volunteer their expertise. SCORE mentors offer personalized guidance across all aspects of business development, including business planning, marketing strategy, financial management, operations, and more. Since 1964, SCORE has served as a trusted advisor to more than 17 million entrepreneurs nationwide. The Western North Carolina chapter specifically serves the local Asheville community, connecting small business owners with mentors who understand regional market dynamics and challenges. Whether you're in the early stages of launching a startup or looking to scale an established business, SCORE provides one-on-one mentoring sessions tailored to your specific needs and goals. All services are completely free, making SCORE an invaluable resource for entrepreneurs of all backgrounds and experience levels who want expert business guidance without the cost of hiring consultants.
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 and sales strategy, operational consulting, start-up support, growth planning, and free business workshops
Best For
Aspiring entrepreneurs, first-time business owners, established small business owners seeking growth, women entrepreneurs, veterans, and anyone in the Asheville, NC area needing expert business guidance
Focus Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does SCORE Western North Carolina provide?
SCORE Western North Carolina offers comprehensive free mentoring services to help entrepreneurs succeed. Services include personalized one-on-one business mentoring on topics such as business planning and strategy, marketing and sales, financial management and bookkeeping, operations and management, start-up guidance, and business growth strategies. Additionally, SCORE hosts free workshops and training sessions on relevant business topics throughout the year. Mentors review business plans, help refine financial projections, and provide ongoing support as your business evolves. All guidance is confidential and delivered by volunteer business professionals and experienced entrepreneurs.
Is SCORE Western North Carolina free to use?
Yes, SCORE Western North Carolina is completely free. As an SBA resource partner, SCORE is funded through the Small Business Administration to support entrepreneurs at no cost. There are no fees for mentoring sessions, business consultations, or most workshops. This makes SCORE an accessible resource for entrepreneurs at any stage, regardless of budget. The only exception may be nominal fees for some specialized training events, but core mentoring services are always free.
Who can use SCORE Western North Carolina?
SCORE Western North Carolina serves entrepreneurs and small business owners of all backgrounds, experience levels, and business types in the Asheville, NC area. Whether you're considering starting a business, launching a new venture, or growing an existing company, SCORE welcomes you. Services are available to aspiring entrepreneurs, first-time business owners, established business owners seeking growth, women entrepreneurs, veterans, and anyone with a passion for building a successful business. There are no income or demographic restrictions—SCORE's mission is to support all entrepreneurs in the community.
How do I get started with SCORE Western North Carolina?
Getting started with SCORE Western North Carolina is simple. Visit the national SCORE website (score.org) or contact the Asheville chapter directly to register for services. You can request a mentor match based on your business type and specific needs. After registration, you'll be paired with an experienced mentor who specializes in your industry or business challenge. You'll then schedule one-on-one meetings at a time and location convenient for you, whether in-person or virtual. You can also attend free workshops and events hosted by the chapter. The entire process is designed to be accessible and straightforward, so you can quickly get the expert guidance you need.
Last updated: February 28, 2026