Volunteer as a Business Advisor
AOC’s Business Advisors provide a significant impact on people’s lives in our community. Business Advisors are a valuable resource to AOC and its borrowers. The time and energy contributed by Business Advisors helps to fulfill AOC’s mission by offering business advice through one-on-one consulting with each of our borrowers. We match the interests and skills of our experienced Business Advisors to the needs of our borrowers to ensure a successful experience for all involved.
Business Advisor Requirements
Summary of Responsibilities: Business Advisors serve as volunteers offering business advice and technical assistance to AOC borrowers through one-on-one meetings.
Specific Responsibilities:
When a Business Advisor is matched with an AOC Borrower, the advisor will:
- Act as a networking resource and sounding board for the business owner.
- Attend an initial meeting with the Borrower and an AOC staff member to learn more about the Borrower’s business needs.
- Meet with the Borrower for about an hour once per month to discuss business needs, monitor progress and share advice.
- Record key points at each monthly meeting and share the results with AOC Staff.
- Build a relationship with the Borrower based on mutual trust, respect and confidentiality.
- Identify other community resources appropriate for each borrower.
- Attend AOC Quarterly Connect networking events.
- Adhere to AOC’s Business Advisor Code of Ethics.
Qualifications
Business Advisors must have experience in starting or growing their own business or have basic knowledge of at least two key areas of small business development.
Business Advisors must be passionate about contributing to the mission of AOC and supporting small business owners and must believe in the abilities and potential of the people we serve.
Business Advisors must be able to suspend judgment and listen deeply. They must be patient and understanding of the many personal obstacles to business-ownership our borrower’s encounter.
Business Advisors are carefully added to AOC’s group of advisors based on the needs of the organization and qualifications of the volunteers.
Time Commitment
A minimum commitment of four hours a month for 12 months or more is preferred. Business Advisors are free to determine their own schedules and availability.
Minimum age: 21
For more information, please contact Albina Opportunities Corporation at tbrandt@albinaopportunities.org.