How much does it cost to get a restaurant business mentor?

Nothing. As a non-profit organization, SCORE provides expert business mentoring completely free of charge.

What kind of experience do SCORE mentors have?

SCORE mentors are volunteers with real-world business experience. Many come from the food and beverage industry and have expertise in areas like operations, marketing, finance, and business planning.

Can I get a mentor if my restaurant is already open?

Yes. SCORE provides comprehensive support for businesses at all stages, whether you are in the planning phase or are an existing business owner looking to grow, scale, or manage your operations.

Free Restaurant Business Mentor | Expert Guidance

Get Free, Expert Guidance for Your Restaurant Business

Starting and running a restaurant is a significant challenge, but you don’t have to do it alone. SCORE offers free access to a nationwide network of experienced business mentors, including many from the food and beverage industry. Our mentors can provide the expert advice you need to navigate the complexities of the restaurant world, whether you are just starting out or looking to grow an existing establishment.

Small business owners who receive three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth. A mentor can be your trusted advisor, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions.

How a Restaurant Mentor Can Help

SCORE mentors are real-world professionals who have experience in a wide range of business areas. They can provide guidance on:

Business & Financial Planning: Developing a solid business plan, creating financial projections, and finding funding.
Operations: Managing day-to-day operations, staffing, and customer service.
Marketing & Branding: Creating a strong brand identity and effective marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
Menu Development & Costing: Engineering a profitable menu and managing food costs.
Compliance & Regulations: Navigating the specific licenses and regulations of the food service industry.

How to Find Your Mentor in 3 Simple Steps

Visit Our Mentor Search Page: Click the button below to go directly to our mentor network.
Browse Experts: We've pre-filtered the search for mentors with experience in the "Food & Beverage" industry. You can read their profiles to find the right match for you.
Request a Mentor: Select your preferred mentor and fill out a short request form. Your chosen mentor will then reach out to you to schedule your first session.

Your Partner in Business Since 1964

SCORE is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping entrepreneurs like you succeed. Since 1964, we have helped over 17 million entrepreneurs start, grow, or successfully exit a business. Our services are completely free and available nationwide in all 50 U.S. states and territories, thanks to our network of over 10,000 volunteer mentors.

Find Your Restaurant Business Mentor