Business and Entrepreneurship Launch Tool Creates Pathway for Growth in Steuben County

The Business and Entrepreneurship Launch Tool (BELT) is a 10-week accelerator developed to support entrepreneurs in Steuben County and the surrounding region. The program gives business owners structured training, direct mentorship, and access to tools that reduce the risk of starting or expanding a business.

The accelerator is not a series of lectures. Each week is focused on a core function of operating a business. Participants engage with experienced professionals who deliver instruction in finance, accounting, marketing, operations, and management. Entrepreneurs also receive individual guidance from mentors to address challenges specific to their business model.

Affordable Access to High-Value Resources

The value of the full program package is more than $2,000. Participants pay $125 to access all resources. This program includes one-on-one mentoring, ongoing support from the Northeast Indiana Small Business Development Center and the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center, and a comprehensive curriculum designed to strengthen business readiness.

The program runs from September 3 through November 19 and concludes with a pitch competition. Entrepreneurs will present their business plans to a panel for the opportunity to secure awards designed to accelerate growth.

Awards That Directly Support Business Growth

Participants completing the program are eligible for awards that address real startup and growth challenges. These include:

• Graduated commercial leases starting at $240 per month to provide affordable space while conserving capital.
• Low-interest loans of up to $2,500 to launch or expand operations, with three loans available.
• QuickBooks training provided by Mannia & Company, with four spots available.
• Chamber memberships for one year in the county of choice within the four-county region, with four memberships available.
• Access to coworking spaces, including CoWork Steuben in Angola, with multiple seats available.
• Marketing startup bundles, professional headshots, and access to capital mapping tools.

Additional benefits under development include free legal consultation and tax filing support.

Tangible Benefits for Entrepreneurs and the Local Economy

BELT gives business leaders practical tools to move from concept to execution. Entrepreneurs finish the program with a tested business model, a clearer understanding of their financial requirements, and direct access to networks that strengthen their growth potential.

For Steuben County, this program builds a stronger base of entrepreneurs who are equipped to create jobs, occupy commercial space, and contribute to the county’s economic growth. By providing structured training and targeted resources, BELT supports both individual business success and broader community development.

Applications for the BELT program are open until August 29th. Entrepreneurs and small business leaders ready to scale their ideas into sustainable operations should apply today through the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation.