SERVICE CORP OF RET EXECUTIVES (SCORE) 2026-01
SCORE offers free business mentoring and support from experienced volunteers to help new and existing small businesses grow nationwide.
Funder: Small Business Administration
Due Dates: August 14, 2026
Funding Amounts: $17,000,000 total; single award for a 12-month period; no cost-sharing required
Summary: Supports a national network of volunteer business mentors (SCORE) to provide mentoring and training for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Key Information: Open only to nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (not higher education); only one award expected.
Description
This opportunity funds the SCORE program, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, to deliver high-quality business and economic development assistance to existing small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. The program is designed to strengthen small business growth through mentoring, counseling, training, and access to resources, with a focus on underserved and rural communities. The award is administered as a cooperative agreement, with substantial involvement from the Small Business Administration (SBA).
