Bellamy Schmidt – EforAll Holyoke

Bellamy Schmidt spent his whole career in human resources, primarily employee development. He has been an EforAll Holyoke mentor since 2019 and has worked with a wide range of entrepreneurs; from a hydroponic lettuce producer to an HR consulting business.

What made you want to become a mentor?

I have done a lot of mentoring throughout my career.  On my first day at work, my new boss told me there is no greater joy than to see an employee grow and develop.  I was naïve and skeptical then, but I learned he was absolutely right.

Is there a specific mentoring experience that you are most proud of?

One mentee wanted to name her business after her home address because her three-year-old liked that name.  We (her mentors) felt that name would not create any excitement in her customer base, so we suggested another approach.  She eventually embraced our recommendation, and it has proved to be a big success.

What is your favorite part of being an EforAll mentor?

Seeing the growth of the entrepreneurs.  Seeing them stretch their minds and adopt a business mentality.  Seeing them analyze issues and make trade-offs.  And seeing their businesses grow!

What do you think makes EforAll special?

EforAll starts with pure, raw talent – entrepreneurs with an idea and a vision, but often no experience or formal training.

What advice would you have for entrepreneurs?

It’s imperative to develop a realistic financial plan (revenues and costs).  Then track and monitor results carefully to see if that plan was indeed a realistic business view and adjust as necessary.

Interested in becoming a mentor? Learn more here.