Become a Mentor
Mentoring is crucial to the success of startups as it provides a transfer of personal connections, subject matter or industry expertise, and invaluable support to entrepreneurs.
Mentors bring their experience, expertise, and networks to help startups navigate through challenges, make more informed decisions, and grow their businesses. They also act as a sounding board for ideas, offer constructive feedback, and guide entrepreneurs to avoid common pitfalls.
What to expect
We'll reach out with our next steps which will include an intro call with our Executive Director, attending a 90 minute Mentor Training Session, and instructions and support from GrowCo staff to set up your profile in MentorDeck.
We believe that mentorship is a continuous learning process, and we are committed to helping our mentors improve their skills together. We facilitate a series of six follow-on workshops to compliment the lessons learned in the initial mentor training session.
What We Expect
Show Up
Attend at least two events in the first month and interact with the startups and founders that you are interested in.
Take Initiative
Meet with at least two startups every month. We use MentorDeck which integrates with Calendly for easy booking and calendar management.
Behave
We believe in Techstars' #GiveFirst mentality and ask our mentors to also strive for excellence as outlined in their Mentor Manifesto.
Our Promise
We trust you'll learn just as much from the mentees as they learn from you.
Startups are at the forefront of new technologies and industries, and mentoring the leaders of these ventures is exhilarating.
While you may have years of experience in your field, the mentees often bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that will inspire and challenge you. This means that as a mentor, you will have the chance to learn about cutting-edge developments and emerging trends that could impact your own work or business!
It’s such an honor to give back to the startup community here in Columbia. I love gettting to spend time with founders and help them brainstorm the best way to earn their first users.
Jade Pruett
SEO Specialist and Startup Founder
Housekeeping
- Mentors in this community are not financially compensated throughout the program and should expect nothing in return.
- The topics you'll discuss with mentees is highly confidential. Please respect the confidentiality of the startup, founder, and team.
- Is mentoring not going well? Shoot a note to the Executive Director and we'll help.
Ready to join the community?
Join Cola’s entrepreneurs, freelancers, and mentors to grow together.