ELKHART, Ind. -- The Indiana Black Expo announced it's expanding its Black Business Training Institute to Northern Indiana in partnership with the Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo, the City of Elkhart, and Elkhart Chamber of Commerce to provide business resources and access to capital for minority businesses.

IBE officials say this is in response to the demand for hands-on business management training across the state.

Officials add the non-profit has developed specialized partnerships with industry experts, like CPAs, accountants, and financial firms that have provided technical assistance to participating businesses in accounting, bookkeeping, business planning, and business management.

“We are excited to provide support and assist the Elkhart Chapter of Indiana Black Expo, one of IBE’s premier chapters, with the creation and launch of this important initiative to help minority and small businesses create generational wealth for their families and create economic impact for the Michiana area. This is only the beginning of a great partnership with the City of Elkhart and the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce,” said IBE President and CEO Alice Watson.

Officials say the 11-week training sessions will focus on helping build skills and knowledge that will help in business sustainability and growth.

The training sessions will begin on September 4.

Specifically, IBE officials say businesses are trained in business plan creation, profit and loss statements, budgets, projections, business certifications, and access to traditional and non-traditional capital.

A check for $1,000 will be awarded to the top business owner/business that excels in the program and receives perfect attendance.

The business owner will also be recognized at a special networking event hosted by the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce.

You can learn more about the local Black Business Training Institute and apply for it on the IBE website.