Small Business Community Advocates for SCORE Funding Amid Proposed Budget Cuts

Advocacy for SCORE Funding to Support Small Businesses

In an inspiring response to potential federal budget cuts, America’s small business community has united to advocate for the preservation of funding for SCORE, a nonprofit that has played a pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship across the nation. With a passionate call to action, small business owners, entrepreneurs, and supporters are urging Congress to maintain SCORE's annual funding of $17 million, which is crucial for the continued mentorship and support it provides to countless aspiring business leaders.

The Role of SCORE in Supporting Entrepreneurs

SCORE, the largest network of volunteer business mentors in the United States, has been instrumental over the past 61 years in helping over 17 million small businesses start, grow, and thrive. With a dedicated team of more than 10,000 volunteer mentors, SCORE offers free advice and resources that empower around 300,000 entrepreneurs annually to navigate the complexities of business ownership. This invaluable support is especially critical in today's economic climate where small businesses face numerous challenges.

CEO Bridget Weston emphasized the importance of SCORE, stating, "For 61 years, SCORE has played a powerful role in the small business ecosystem. Without federal support, our ability to provide expert business advice would significantly diminish." This sentiment resonates with the wide array of entrepreneurs who have benefitted from SCORE’s services, from live workshops to tailored mentorship sessions that adapt to the unique needs of individual business owners.

Uniting Voices in Support of SCORE

The urgency of the situation has sparked a significant movement, resulting in approximately 50,000 letters sent to Congress, along with an active social media campaign, #StandWithSCORE, which has garnered widespread attention. Numerous testimonials from SCORE clients highlight the profound impact that mentorship has had on their journeys. Carlotta "Lottie" Jackson-Kelly, who turned to SCORE during a challenging phase in her business, reflected, "They took what I did know and polished it, taught me what I didn't, and helped kickstart my flourish as an entrepreneur. That moment changed the course of my life."

Christina Kolokotroni echoed similar sentiments, expressing her gratitude for the plethora of resources available through SCORE, stating it offers a "dream for anyone looking to learn, grow and build something meaningful."

The Economic Impact of SCORE

The benefits of SCORE extend beyond individual success stories; they contribute significantly to the broader economy. SCORE mentors assert that successful businesses are often the result of guided mentorship, highlighting that every federal dollar appropriated to SCORE generates palpable economic returns through job creation and local business development. David Mortaz, a SCORE volunteer and AI entrepreneur, remarked, "SCORE is not just a cost-effective use of federal funds—it is an economic catalyst."

Community partners, including state small business development centers and local chambers of commerce, have also voiced their support. They underscore the vital role SCORE mentors play in guiding entrepreneurs through various challenges, offering knowledge and encouragement that go beyond textbook principles.

As the nation’s small business owners continue to rally for support, they are calling for action through direct outreach to Congress, urging representatives to recognize the critical work that SCORE does for American businesses. This grassroots movement not only emphasizes the importance of SCORE's resources but also reaffirms the belief that a thriving small business sector is essential to America's economic landscape.

Conclusion

As the budget discussions unfold, the cries for preserving SCORE's funding will remain relentless. This campaign is crucial for ensuring that small business owners across the country receive the mentorship and resources they need to succeed. With small businesses representing 99.9% of all U.S. enterprises, the importance of protecting SCORE cannot be overstated. The collective voice of America’s small business community rings clear: Protect SCORE, protect the backbone of our economy.

For those who wish to support this initiative, visit SCORE's website to learn more about how to get involved in advocating for this cause.