Mentorship & Coaching

At the Incubators + Labs at Hagerstown Community College we are committed to empowering entrepreneurs, small businesses and startups with the guidance and expertise needed to turn ideas into successful businesses. Our group of dedicated mentors, advisors, subject matter experts and coaches offer personalized support tailored to your business, whether you're just starting out or looking to scale.
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Business Coaches

A business coach is a professional who helps entrepreneurs improve performance, overcome challenges, and reach specific goals within a defined timeframe. Coaching is structured and goal-oriented, using tools, feedback, and regular progress reviews to build skills and drive measurable outcomes. Unlike advisors or mentors, coaches actively hold you accountable — checking in on progress and helping you refine your approach along the way. As a member, you receive one business coaching session per month included in your membership, giving you consistent, structured support as you work toward your goals.

Meet our Business Coaches
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Advisors

An advisor is an expert who provides specialized guidance to help you make informed decisions. Advisors typically focus on a specific area — finance, law, marketing, or technology — and act as problem-solvers who offer recommendations based on industry best practices. Engagement with an advisor is usually project-based or as-needed, and while they provide expert direction, they aren't responsible for holding you accountable to act on it.

Meet our Industry Advisors
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Mentors

A mentor is an experienced individual who guides your professional (and sometimes personal) growth over the long term. Mentorship is built on a supportive, ongoing relationship — mentors act as a sounding board, offering encouragement, perspective, and informal advice drawn from their own experience. Rather than directing your next steps, mentors help you think through challenges and leave the action steps up to you, encouraging independence and self-discovery.

Meet our Mentors
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Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)

A subject matter expert has deep, specialized knowledge in a particular field and is brought in to provide targeted insight on complex issues — such as compliance, technology, or finance. SMEs may be engaged short- or long-term, typically within a specific project or consultation, offering authoritative guidance without an ongoing accountability role.

Meet our Subject Matter Experts
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Entrepreneurs in Residence

Members have direct access to our Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIR) — established business owners and industry leaders who volunteer their time and expertise to help you navigate real challenges in your industry. Our current Entrepreneurs in Residence bring experience across marketing, consulting, technology, retail, and more, including leaders from d'Vinci Interactive, GlowUp Consulting, Hearty Pet, HighRock Media, and Warehouse Cinemas.

Meet Our EIRs