Indianapolis, IN — The CPA profession has seen minimal progress in expanding opportunities for Black and Latino/a students, underscoring the need for bold and practical solutions. The Indiana CPA Society (INCPAS) and NABA Inc. (formerly the National Association of Black Accountants) are proud to announce the launch of ConnectIN, an innovative partnership aimed at increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion within Indiana’s accounting profession. This new initiative is a critical step toward expanding opportunities for Black Hoosiers in accounting and finance by establishing a comprehensive talent pipeline from high school to professional certification.

In response to persistent talent shortages and the underrepresentation of Black professionals in accounting, ConnectIN seeks to build a stronger, more diverse workforce that reflects the needs of modern businesses. The program will focus on several key objectives, including boosting high school and college graduation rates, supporting professional certifications, and fostering Black leadership in Indiana’s business community.

“This is a pivotal moment for the profession here in Indiana,” said Courtney Kincaid, CAE, President & CEO of INCPAS. “For too long, we have struggled to attract a diverse talent pool, which has led to critical workforce challenges. The ConnectIN program will help amplify solutions with proven track records, fill gaps, and explore new ways to establish pathways to a CPA. Diversity isn’t just about social responsibility—it’s a business imperative. Diverse teams drive innovation, improve decision-making, and contribute to a stronger economy. Everyone wins.”

To support the long-term success of ConnectIN, INCPAS and NABA have launched a jointly funded operating endowment that will ensure sustained financial backing for this work. Additionally, NABA will establish an Indiana office at 900 E. 96th St., #250, Indianapolis, IN 46240, cementing its commitment to advancing the mission of ConnectIN locally and supporting the Indiana-based initiatives.

ConnectIN goals:

1. Boost High School Graduation and College-Going Rates: ConnectIN will implement programs to help Black high school students graduate and pursue higher education, including guidance on financial aid, dual-enrollment options, and career pathways in accounting.
2. Increase Black Hoosiers’ Bachelor’s Degree Attainment: The partnership will support two-year and four-year college students, creating bridges to professional education and encouraging accelerated pathways to degree completion.
3. Expand Access to Professional Credentials: ConnectIN will provide resources and mentorship to help Black professionals earn certifications such as CPA, CFA, and others, enabling them to advance in their careers and contribute to the growth of Black-owned CPA firms.
4. Promote Economic Growth and Leadership: By fostering entrepreneurship and opportunities for increased leadership representation, ConnectIN aims to drive economic resilience in Indiana, positioning Black Hoosiers as key contributors to the state’s economy.

"ConnectIN represents the kind of bold, collaborative approach needed to address systemic inequities in the accounting profession,” said Guylaine Saint Juste, President & CEO of NABA, Inc. “At NABA, we are deeply committed to building pathways for Black professionals to thrive. This initiative lays the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive economy in Indiana. Together with INCPAS, we’re investing in a future where diversity drives innovation and excellence in the profession."

About INCPAS
The Indiana CPA Society is a statewide professional association representing nearly 6,000 current and aspiring CPAs and related professionals who are transforming business in Indiana. Learn more at incpas.org.

About NABA, Inc.
NABA Inc. represents a network of over 20,000 members committed to bridging opportunity gaps for Black professionals in accounting, business, finance and entrepreneurship. Established in 1969, NABA’s mission is to engage, empower, and elevate Black business leaders while fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce. Through its initiatives, NABA drives economic growth and cultivates the next generation of diverse leadership. Learn more at www.nabainc.org.

For more information on ConnectIN and how to participate, please contact:

Indiana CPA Society
Elise May, Communications Coordinator
emay@incpas.org

NABA, Inc.
Toi Eshun, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications
teshun@nabainc.org