Entrepreneurs Getting a Helping Hand from the Town of Hempstead

In a bid to help local entrepreneurs, the Town of Hempstead has announced a new partnership with SCORE Long Island, a provider of mentoring services for individuals who seek to start or expand a new business, and the town’s Department of Occupational Resources (DOOR). SCORE volunteers will host workshops on “How to Start a New Business” periodically and provide one-on-one counseling at 50 Clinton St. in Hempstead four days a week.

“Starting a new business can be intimidating, but with the right guidance you can navigate the obstacles associated with being a new entrepreneur,” Town Supervisor Anthony Santino said. “SCORE Long Island, in partnership with our town’s Department of Occupational Resources, can assist novices reach their business-owning dreams and goals.”

SCORE is a nonprofit association made up of retired business executives who are dedicated to helping small business owners get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. Volunteers with SCORE are trained to assist individuals in the process of becoming a business owner. Throughout the program, SCORE mentors share their expertise across numerous industries. What’s more, mentors provide business models, templates and tips, making the journey into small business ownership less daunting.

Many considerations have to be accounted for before starting your own business and SCORE will go over them with interested individuals. Factors to keep in mind, which are discussed by mentors, include the business concept, marketing plans, financial projections, funding sources, legal issues, how to avoid costly mistakes and insurance requirements. Participants will receive detailed instructions on how to evaluate their business concept. Prospective business owners will do this by reviewing a draft of a feasibility plan of a sample business. They will also learn how to research industry profile data, customer data, financial projections, and other information with the assistance of a SCORE mentor.

“We are very excited to partner with the Town of Hempstead in order to provide aspiring business owners with the information they need to succeed and also help improve the economy of their surrounding communities,” said Edward Gould, chairman of the Long Island Chapter of SCORE.

SCORE volunteers will be available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments are necessary and can be made by contacting SCORE at 516-485-5000 extension 1102.

“Here at the Town of Hempstead, we want to make owning your own business a reality,” Santino said. “With the programs at DOOR and SCORE we are helping to make it an easier reality.”

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