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SCORE to set up satellite office, counsel small ­­­­­businesses

Date: 5/29/2015

WEST SPRINGFIELD – West Springfield businesses will soon be able to get some free advice. SCORE, a national nonprofit with a Springfield chapter, will be setting up a satellite office in the new community development offices.

SCORE helps small businesses through education and creating mentorships, allowing business owners to ask questions and gain guidance in their endeavors.

The satellite office allows SCORE counselors to utilize conference rooms in the community development office to host seminars for business owners or those looking to start a business. The counselors will also be able to give advice in one-on-one meetings, according to Tara Gehring, economic development coordinator.

SCORE “covers the whole gamut of businesses,” Gehring said. Whether counselors are dealing with a small business veteran or someone with an idea, they can point them in the right direction, she said.

“It’s beneficial for an existing business because if they are having trouble with a certain aspect, they can contact SCORE, and SCORE will set them up with someone who knows about it specifically,” Gehring said. “They will help with whatever problem they’re having.”

She continued, “It’s also great for people who are starting a new business because a lot of times they have an idea and they can take that idea to SCORE. They can help develop it.”

Gehring said SCORE will be in West Springfield one or two times a month to talk to business owners or give seminars. Gehring said she is looking forward to business owners getting a greater understanding of the practical sides of the industry.

“One thing I’m looking forward to is myself with some SCORE counselors are creating seminars for starting a business in West Springfield. It will cover the basics of business and getting licenses and permits,” Gehring said. “If new business owners attend this they will understand the process they have to go through.”

Joe LaPlante, director of Community Development, said businesses in town have a lot to gain from SCORE counselors.

“I think it’s a terrific program and I’m really happy SCORE approached us because it’s great to have the very local counseling for our business people,” LaPlante said. “It’s great for business people and it’s great for the town of West Springfield.
    The “initial shakedown,” according to LaPlante, starts on June 4, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those business owners interested in attending should sign up at www.westernmassachusetts.score.org.