Local Businesses to Get Expert Help

Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce Mentor Program

"Any business that thinks it’s time for them to grow, that’s the time to come to us and say: 'Am I right?' 'What do I need to know?' 'What do I need to do?' " says Bob Newcomb, the chamber's executive director.

The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a new Mentor Program that will connect local active and retired business owners, executives and professional people in Gulfport and South Pasadena with local businesses that need advice.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bob Newcomb says the Mentor Program is a local spinoff of the U.S. Small Business Administration's SCORE program.

SCORE is a non-profit association that connects businesses with retired executive who offer their advice for free. The program will be similar in Gulfport and South Pasadena, with services free to members of the Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce.

"I would say Florida is a goldmine of experience: Gulfport and South Pasadena have fairly well-to-do retired professional business people.” Newcomb said.

Newcomb says the program is just beginning. The Chamber is seeking volunteers to join the new Mentor Program as mentors to area businesses.

Who will lead this new service?

Lawrence Burke of Gulfport has been appointed Chairperson of the Mentor Program. Burke is a long-time electrical engineer and builder of commercial and residential properties.

Burke adds that given the number of retired business owners, executives and professional people residing in Gulfport and South Pasadena, the Chamber Mentors will provide a great social outlet as well as being an important service organization.

“My business philosophy has always been, if it isn’t fun, don’t do it,” Burke said.

Organizers are optimistic that the blend of active business people and retirees meeting together will provide important information and stimulation for both the mentors and area businesses or professional firms.

Want to be a Mentor?

Lawrence Burke is seeking qualified retirees and active business people to serve as Chamber Mentors. Anyone with entrepreneurial, management, financial, sales, marketing or accounting experience is welcome to join. 

Chamber members can register by calling the Chamber Office at 727-344-3711 or e-mailing the Chamber at info@gulfportchamberofcommerce.com. 

Retirees can join the Mentor Program at a special low rate by calling Bob Newcomb at 727-344-3711. He can also be contacted by  cell phone at 727-482-6211, or by e-mail at bobnewcomb@gmail.com.

Need a Mentor?

The free service is available to Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce members. Member businessed seeking assistance will be asked to submit a brief outline of their problem that will be presented anonymously to the group of mentors. Those who feel they have the expertise to help will raise their hands and, as a group, will be assigned to assisting the requesting firm.