April is National Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month

FRESNO – On April 25 at 5 p.m., the U.S. Small Business Administration, AARP and the Central California SCORE Chapter will host a free evening workshop in honor of National Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month.  The event is targeted to entrepreneurs over the age of 50 and will include a presentation by FranNet on Franchise Business Ownership as well as one-on-one mentoring offered by the Central California SCORE Chapter and SBA.

National Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month is part of a larger effort by SBA, SCORE and AARP to promote entrepreneurship among individuals ages 50 and older.  Events across the country will match encore entrepreneurs with mentors who have small business experience.  These events will also connect encore entrepreneurs with mentors from SBA’s network of resource partners.

“It is never too late to start a small business and finding a mentor who has been in your shoes can help you,” said Fresno SBA District Director Carlos G. Mendoza.  “Franchise business ownership is an option that needs to be explored when considering opening a small business.  This workshop will provide information on the many nuances associated with franchises including different programs and services available to entrepreneurs to help start, grow and develop their small business.”

With one in four individuals ages 44 to 70 interested in becoming entrepreneurs, and 63 percent of Americans planning to work during retirement, small business ownership is a good option.  Small business owners with long-term counselors see bigger sales, hire more workers and last longer.

The workshop will take place at the Fresno SBA District Office, located at 801 R St., Suite 201 in downtown Fresno.  To register, call (559) 487-5791 or e-mail fresno@sba.gov.