If you are a woman interested in starting a small business, you already have a lot of company. According to the National Women’s Business Council, there are nearly 8 million woman-owned businesses in the U.S. today.

“While women own more than half of all health-care and social-assistance businesses, they are also well represented in educational services, retail and recreation,” Central Maine SCORE mentor Peter Sassano said. “And women are also increasingly heading technical and research-oriented companies.”

In other words, there is nothing that a woman with a good idea, a determination to succeed and a solid business plan cannot do. However, women often face unique issues and decisions.

For example, small-business ownership represents an exciting opportunity, but because it may well require spending less time with children, family members and friends, time management is essential. You may need to create a new support network — spouse, family members, neighbors — who can take some family logistical roles off your hands.

Many households also need multiple incomes to get by these days. Careful budgeting is essential to make sure your family can accommodate the loss of that paycheck until your business begins generating revenue.

Prior experience in a certain area is always a plus, but there’s no reason not to consider a new field that interests you. Just remember that such a move may require additional preparation time and research.

With so much research information now available online, much of your prep work for your business plan can be done at home. Other research may mean you will need to take time out from home or work to visit off-site resources.

“Every aspiring entrepreneur needs a sound financial plan and credit history,” Sassano said. “Lending institutions are required by law to treat men and women equally in considering loans, but lenders are particularly selective now (about the qualifications of all applicants), so be sure about the details of your business plan.”

For more information and an appointment to meet with a volunteer mentor, contact Central Maine SCORE at 782-3708 or at [email protected], or contact the Auburn Public Library for an appointment with a volunteer mentor. In Oxford Hills call 743-0499; in Rumford-Mexico call 364-3123. Or contact SCORE at www.SCOREmaine.org.

This column is provided by the Central Maine SCORE chapter.