ECIRPD USDA BEST Program Impact
Supporting Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses Across East Central Indiana
Over the past six years, the East Central Indiana Regional Planning District (ECIRPD) has successfully secured $512,855.00 in USDA Business Enterprise & Support Training (BEST) funding to support entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the region. These funds were awarded through six separate BEST grants:
- BEST #1: $100,000
- BEST #2: $100,000
- BEST #3: $56,983
- BEST #4: $100,000
- BEST #5: $100,000
- BEST #6: $55,872
Through this funding, ECIRPD was able to host 24 + adaptable capacity-building workshops designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners strengthen their operations, improve financial management, develop strategic business plans, and access additional resources for sustainable growth.
The program generated significant engagement across the region. Between 2022 and 2025 alone, BEST programming served 764 unique entrepreneurs and small business owners, resulting in 1,015 total engagements and more than 1,553 hours of direct technical assistance and business support. These workshops provided hands-on guidance and practical tools that participants could immediately apply to strengthen their businesses.
By leveraging USDA BEST funding, ECIRPD has helped foster a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem across Blackford, Delaware, Grant, and Jay counties, ensuring that small business owners have access to the training, mentorship, and resources needed to grow, sustain, and expand their businesses. This investment in local entrepreneurship continues to strengthen the regional economy and support long-term economic resilience.