Active Corps of Executives (ACE)
The Active Corps of Executives (ACE) is an initiative typically linked with the SCORE Association, a nonprofit organization partly funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). ACE leverages the expertise of experienced business professionals and executives who volunteer to provide free, confidential mentoring and resources to aspiring and current small business owners.
Examples
- Mentorship Programs: Experienced retired executives offer one-on-one mentorship to guide new entrepreneurs through the process of starting or growing a business, including business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management.
- Workshops and Seminars: ACE volunteers organize and lead seminars covering various aspects of running a small business, such as digital marketing, accounting, and legal compliance.
- Business Plan Development: Free resources and templates are provided to aspiring entrepreneurs to help them develop comprehensive business plans that can attract investors and secure funding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ACE program?
The ACE program, associated with SCORE, is designed to provide free mentoring and business development resources to small business owners and entrepreneurs through volunteer services from experienced executives and business professionals.
How do I sign up for ACE’s mentoring services?
You can sign up for ACE’s mentoring services by visiting the SCORE website, where you can request a mentor and specify the type of business advice you need.
Are the ACE services completely free?
Yes, all services provided through the ACE program, including one-on-one mentoring, workshops, and business tools, are free of charge.
Can any small business access ACE support?
Yes, any current or prospective small business owner can access ACE support, regardless of the industry or size of the business.
What qualifications do ACE mentors have?
ACE mentors are typically retired or semi-retired executives with extensive experience in various industries. They volunteer their time to help small businesses succeed.
Related Terms
SCORE
SCORE stands for the Service Corps of Retired Executives. It is a nonprofit organization that provides free mentoring, resources, and workshops to small businesses and entrepreneurs through its network of volunteers.
SBA (Small Business Administration)
The U.S. Small Business Administration is a government agency that provides support to entrepreneurs and small businesses, including loans, grants, and guidance.
Mentoring
Mentoring involves a more experienced individual (the mentor) providing guidance, advice, and support to a less experienced individual (the mentee) to help them grow and develop professionally and personally.
Online Resources
- SCORE Website: Access to SCORE’s mentoring services, workshops, and resources.
- SBA Website: Information on loans, grants, and other support for small businesses.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
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“The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael E. Gerber
- A must-read for small business owners, this book provides insights on why most small businesses fail and how to turn them around.
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“Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap… and Others Don’t” by Jim Collins
- This book provides valuable lessons on company performance and leadership, applicable to all business sizes.
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“Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek
- Discusses how leaders can inspire cooperation, trust, and change in their organizations.
Fundamentals of Active Corps of Executives (ACE): Management Basics Quiz
Thank you for exploring the resources available through the Active Corps of Executives (ACE). Keep leveraging these valuable tools to grow and strengthen your business.