YOUNGSTOWN — Minority entrepreneurs interested in learning the fundamentals of owning and operating a business can apply to be part of the Minority Business Assistance Center’s accelerated program, Launch, by July 12.

Launch focuses on those who have started their own business but need assistance launching their product into the market and gaining greater access to government and state institutional contracts.

Those who complete the five-week program will present their business plan to lenders and procurement officers for a $5,000 grant award.

The classes are taught by industry experts on marketing tools and strategies, partnerships, accessing capital and certifying the business as a minority business enterprise.

To qualify for the program, businesses must be woman- or minority-owned, registered with Ohio and have an existing business plan.

Classes start Aug. 2. Go to ybi.org/launch-

application to apply.

The Minority Business Assistance Center is hosted by the Youngstown Business Incubator.

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