Business Mentor NY – a program of Empire State Development
Are mentors paid?
No. Mentors volunteer their time.
What are the requirements for becoming a mentor?
Individuals that are interested in mentoring through Business Mentor NY are requested to have at least five years of management experience or three years of business ownership experience. While Business Mentor NY is thoughtful how we recruit mentors, we are unable to conduct vetting all of our mentors.
How can my company mentor through Business Mentor NY?
We are always on the lookout for enthusiastic and experienced small business owners and professionals to join our network of volunteer business mentors. Contact support@businessmentor.ny.gov to learn more.
Can any small business participate in Business Mentor NY?
Generally, to participate, you ought to meet the New York State definition of a small business. A New York State small business is one that is located in NYS, employs 100 employees or less and is not dominant in its field.
Who are the Business Mentor NY counselors and how can they help?
Business Mentor NY works with organizations like the network of Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers (EACs formerly known as the Entrepreneurial Assistance Program - EAP) to administer the program. Organizations like the EACs are mission-driven to provide technical assistance to small businesses throughout New York State and are available to work with entrepreneurs through Business Mentor NY to provide the following services 1) create strong Mentoring Requests and 2) assist in identifying appropriate mentors; or 3) provide direct small business technical assistance to the entrepreneur. It is up to entrepreneurs how they choose to work with Business Mentor NY counselors.
How do I find a mentor?
Start by setting up a profile. Keep in mind you are 10 times more likely to connect with a mentor when your profile has a professional photo and complete descriptions. Mentors use this information to understand your business needs and motivations. Once your profile is complete, search for a few mentors who have the experience you’re looking for, and send them introductory messages. Mentors may contact you directly as well, but feel free to make the first move! Start a conversation, be responsive as you learn more about each other, and if you’re a good fit, then you can decide to start mentoring.
Do you have more information about how mentoring works?
Yes! Take a look at our help section for lots of valuable info about getting the most out of a mentoring relationship.
How do I find an entrepreneur to mentor?
Start by setting up a profile. Make sure your profile is as complete as possible because it’s how entrepreneurs will know about your experience, preferences, and what you have to offer. Entrepreneurs can reach out to you, but you are also encouraged to search the entrepreneur profiles and reach out to those you’d like to help. Start a conversation through our online messaging platform, determine if you're a good fit, and start mentoring.
Do you have more information about how mentoring works?
Yes! Take a look at our help section for lots of valuable info about getting the most out of a mentoring relationship.