Hey there everyone. Looking to start my own small business and need a mentor. Anyone out there owners? Would really prefer someone in the Central Florida area but willing to accept any help that is offered. I have spent countless hours on tons of websites and feel like I have hit a brick wall. Need the assistance of someone who has "been there and done it" succesfully, or not succesfully, to answer some questions and help with guidance. Hard to find the right answers online and I have found some of the owners in my area are not real forthcoming or willing to speak in specifics-only in generalities that I can find online. Not looking to steal a plan or anything just need some help in getting things off the ground, maybe you know better places to look online, etc.

Check here: SCORE | Free Small Business Advice | How-to Resources | Tools | Templates

SCORE means: Service Core of Retired Executives

When I started my business in 1993, I went some classes in the New Orleans area that were very helpful.

I checked the Tampa area and they have several classes there. Go to their web site, click Local Workshops and put in your zip code and it will list classes in your area.

Good luck with the new business.

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Corripe Cervisiam

thanks for that info. will look at it.

"Family. Religion. Friendship. These are the three demons you must slay if you want to succeed in business."

Mr. Burns

What kind of business are you interested in? I know a lot about trucking, and a little about manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, with some government compliance (EPA, FDA, OSHA, DOT, FMCSA) thrown into the mix.

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Insert short witty words here

I'm in Orlando. You can PM me if you want.

I would consider talking to a business that has won the Baldridge Award, or the state quality award. You can pick up books on quality management, performance improvement-no need to buy into a gimmick quality program-there's no trick or secret to it.