B.E.L.L. Brings Back Kauffman FastTrac® to Equip York County Entrepreneurs for Business Growth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 20, 2026

ROCK HILL, S.C. — The Black Economic Leadership League of Rock Hill (B.E.L.L.) is bringing back its Kauffman FastTrac® program this fall, providing aspiring and early-stage

entrepreneurs with an intensive learning experience designed to help turn ideas into sustainable businesses and position existing ventures for growth. Applications are now open for the next cohort, which will run from September 30 through December 16, 2026.

Kauffman FastTrac® is a cornerstone of B.E.L.L.'s Business Development & Innovation work, which focuses on helping Black entrepreneurs create, grow, and scale businesses while increasing access to the knowledge, relationships, and resources that support long-term success.

Throughout the program, entrepreneurs will move through a nationally recognized curriculum covering market research, branding, financial planning, funding, legal considerations, operations, and strategies for profitability. B.E.L.L. enhances the curriculum through Mastermind sessions that connect participants with experienced entrepreneurs, business professionals, and subject matter experts who bring practical insight and relationship building into the learning experience. Participants leave with a clearer business strategy, defined goals, an actionable plan, and an expanded network to support their continued growth.

"Our goal is to equip entrepreneurs with the tools, relationships, and confidence to build businesses that can grow and create opportunity," said Dawn Johnson, Board Chair of B.E.L.L. "Kauffman FastTrac provides a strong foundation, while the local expertise and connections surrounding the program help participants put what they learn into action."

Applications Now Open

• Application/Registration Period: August 17 through September 13, 2026

• Program Dates: September 30 through December 16, 2026

• Graduation Ceremony: December 16, 2026

• Registration Fee: $50

To learn more, visit https://www.bellofrockhill.org/kauffmanprogram

Through Kauffman FastTrac® and its broader Business Development & Innovation efforts, B.E.L.L. continues to strengthen entrepreneurship as a pathway to economic mobility, business ownership, and long-term wealth creation throughout Rock Hill and York County.

About the Black Economic Leadership League of Rock Hill

Founded in 2018, the Black Economic Leadership League of Rock Hill advances economic mobility through Business Development & Innovation, Leadership Development & Training, and Workforce Development & Education. Through programming, partnerships, and community engagement, B.E.L.L. works to expand access to opportunity throughout Rock Hill and York County.