Business mentoring

Finding an individual you trust and admire as a mentor could be valuable for your business. Many experienced entrepreneurs are willing to offer their time for mentoring.

Finding a business mentor

• Mentoring is a great way to get ongoing business guidance and support. You choose how formal or informal the process is, and it's usually free. There are many sources of business mentors, including those focused on local businesses, young entrepreneurs, or specific business sectors. For example, see business mentoring in Northern Ireland.
• The Northern Ireland business support finder is a searchable database that can help you find publicly-funded and not-for-profit sources of assistance for which you may be eligible to apply. Support includes free or subsidised advice and mentoring services.
• Networking events can let you meet like-minded entrepreneurs. They can also help you build a relationship with a business mentor. See Northern Ireland business networks. You can use our Events Finder to find networking events in your local area.

Other main providers of business mentoring services

You can also find business mentors through:

• online mentoring with Enterprise Nation
• e-mentoring for young entrepreneurs with Shell StartUp Engine UK

Further sources of advice

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) network can point you towards business mentors with the skills and experience you need.

If your business is in the creative or technology sectors, the National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts (Nesta) may be able to recommend suitable mentors from its network.

Find more information about Nesta, or call the Nesta Helpline on Tel 020 7438 2500.

For further information see business mentoring in Northern Ireland.