ASSETS Elkhart County provides training and support for individuals with low to moderate income who want to implement a business idea or who want to expand an existing business.

Since beginning in the fall of 2003, more than 100 entrepreneurs and many successful businesses have been developed, launched, and strengthened.

ASSETS’ program administration, marketing, and supervision is embedded within Goshen College ’s Center for Business and Entrepreneurial Education. Goshen College handles the class content and delivery aspects of the program.

LaCasa has linked with ASSETS to help in developing a Spanish language version of the curriculum, and provides in-kind resources and referrals to ASSETS’ business owner training program.

Courses are offered through a 12-week program offering students the opportunity to learn business skills through a series of 23 practical, experience-based classes.

Two-hour classes are held two evenings a week and are taught by volunteer community business leaders, professionals, and college faculty who draw on their own experience and success to help entrepreneurs apply business concepts to the specific needs of their own businesses. Spring 2008 courses will take place in  Goshen .

ASSETS board of directors include Chair, Jim Alvarez, Greg Ota, Secretary Chad Horning, Merritt Lehman, Shelley Moore, Andy Rohrer, and Steve Martin.