Small and minority business owners in East Palestine got the chance to learn more about the local resources available to help them succeed. A special seminar was designed to cater to the needs of businesses following February's train derailment.

"I would describe it as an informational session that helps provide, highlights, services from the valley partners and the YBI organizations that help service the community," said Business Resource Manager with Valley Partners, Matthew Longmire.

The minority business assistance center had a hand in offering up resources as well. Small business counseling and tech-enabling programs are just a few of the services available to businesses.

"We help them with access to capital, procurement, getting them access to larger contracts through certification," said Ayana Beulah, Minority Business Association Administrative Assistant and Certifications Specialist. "We know that one of the main things that they're looking for is funding, whether that's through a loan or through a grant," she said.

Since funding was needed most among these businesses, a revolving loan fund was made available with a maximum of $150,000 dollars per business and a one percent interest rate.

East Palestine business owners believe these resources will meet their specific needs.

"It seems like it would simply the process and change our risk," said Robert Figley, Owner of Brushville Supply.

"There's a lot of different avenues to go to at least we're able to get answers from this small seminar," said Clifford Dilling, Owner of DDTA Services Inc.

For more information, contact Valley Partners, the Youngstown Business Incubator or the Minority Business Assistance Center.