SBA/SCORE Encore Entrepreneur Day 

The U.S. Small Business Administration, AARP and SCORE will team up to sponsor the Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Day. The event is targeted at entrepreneurs over the age of 50 to match these "encore entrepreneurs" with successful business owners and community leaders for advice and assistance.

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. SBA, AARP, and SCORE will provide the training and mentoring services older entrepreneurs need to successfully start and grow businesses and create jobs.

There are as many reasons for starting a small business as there are Americans reaching retirement age.  Corporate layoffs, the need for supplemental income, and a desire for a more flexible lifestyle can all play a part.  Advanced technology is leveling the playing field for small businesses, and many individuals approaching retirement are not able to realize their personal ambition to be the boss and reap the rewards.  One in four Americans between age 44 and 70 is interested in starting a business or non-profit venture in the next five to 10 years.  Nearly half of theses aspiring entrepreneurs reported a desire to be "Encore Entrepreneurs," starting a business with a positive social impact.  If this sounds like you or someone you know, the SBA and its resource partners can help you find fulfillment in your later years through your own small business opportunity.

Owning your own small business can be an exciting change of pace, as well as a terrific way to stay engaged and productive.  As a workforce veteran, you bring a great deal to the table: maturity, strong finances, and a wide network of professional contacts and associates.  Whether you're interested in starting a side business right now or intend to wait until retirement, now is the time to explore the possibilities - starting a business, or buying a franchise.

Attendees will:

• Learn about the support and resources available to them locally
•  There will be a panel of encore entrepreneur mentors to share their stories and experience with the audience.
• The panel will be followed by audience questions and answers and the opportunity to speak directly with counselors on hand.
• Financing your dream will be discussed. Representatives from micro loan and non traditional financial sources will describe those channels and be on hand to discuss specifics.
• Receive a free e-book on "The Seven Pillatrs of Reinvention". It's about finding your pirpose and passion.
• A select group those registered will also be invited to participate in a free assessment of your entrerpreneurial potential.

Fee: Free Admission