SCORE for Women Entrepreneurs

Latina business owner standing in her place of business

SCORE is here to help women small business owners.

Numbering in at 13M in the U.S., women-owned businesses comprise a vital and growing segment of the economy. This segment employs 9.4M workers, ushers in innovation, and introduces new products as part of a vibrant U.S. economy. Women entrepreneurs bring a unique perspective and sometimes must break ceilings in traditionally male-dominated industries or roles.

SCORE is here to help you fulfill your business ownership goals and achieve greater success. Along with resources and tools created especially for women entrepreneurs, SCORE offers free and confidential business advice. SCORE mentors, many of them successful women small business owners, are ready to help you achieve your business goals.

13 million women-owned businesses in the U.S. 42% of all U.S businesses are women owned.

Women are leading the way in the business world.

The 2019 State of Women-Owned Business Report by American Express found that the number of women-owned businesses climbed to nearly 13 million, representing 42% of all businesses in the United States. Women-owned businesses employ 9.4 million workers and generate $1.9 trillion in annual revenue.

Woman in mentoring session with female mentor

In 2019, 61% of our clients were women. SCORE is dedicated to helping women owners succeed. SCORE has a diverse volunteer force of qualified business mentors, all skilled and ready to help women entrepreneurs. Once you request a free business mentor, SCORE will match you to a seasoned, experienced business expert.

We understand women-led small businesses and are here to help.

Building a small business might seem daunting, but it’s more possible than you think. See how we’ve helped other aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their business goals.

Vera Bradley

Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia Miller have taken their line of women's luggage, accessories, and clothing to major markets around the globe.

Read Success Story

Kiddy Crawler, LLC

Back From Extinction After 40 years -- Stacey Kohler brought the Crawligator back to the market.

Read Success Story

Our Favorite Things Boutique & Event Center

Dr. Lisa R. McGuthry Grandmothers' continued in her grandmother's footsteps to run her own business.

Read Success Story

Sway-Oh, LLC

Shirley Washington starts with an idea that becomes an Amazon “hot new release”.

Read Success Story

Specs4Us

Maria Dellapina has a vision that’s now filling a huge market need for quality eyewear.

Read Success Story

Lori's Original Lemonade

Lori Volk took selling lemonade locally to major stores, cafes, independent markets, and restaurants.

Read Success Story

Resources for women business leaders.

SCORE has developed resources to address the unique needs of women in the small business community. Browse these resources below then connect with a mentor to get personalized advice for your business.

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Article

Women Business Owners Face Financial Challenges

Article Language: English

Comparing businesses owned by men and women , a study found a significant revenue gap between the two Read more

Article

Women-Owned Small Businesses Share Challenges & Offer Tips on How to Overcome Them

Article Language: English

Women Small Business Owners find support in Networking and SCORE Events customized to their needs Read more

Article

More Women Should Start Small Businesses

Article Language: English

Women inspiring women to start their own small businesses and are succeeding Read more

Blog

Amplifying Diverse Voices: Entrepreneurship for All

Article Language: English

May 25, 2021, Christie Denson

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Southern Minnesota. Local volunteers in the area who recognize the power of storytelling are working to amplify the voices of minority and immigrant entrepreneurs. Through a forum called “Entrepreneurship for All” they hope to bring the Albert Lea, Faribault, Mankato and Owatonna community together through stories that promote and inspire mentorship. This effort is presented by SCORE South Central Minnesota Chapter #0710.

Article