About Us

Our history

Be Noble Inc. is Noble County Indiana’s local economic development organization (LEDO) and 501c3 nonprofit, charitable organization focused on ensuring a thriving economy.

Our team is dedicated to serving as a connector to help individuals and organizations discover and leverage the many talents, abilities, gifts, skills, and resources available in our communities. We are unique positioned to help Noble County thrive in the following focus areas:

Workforce / talent development systems
Business attraction, retention, and expansions
Small business start-ups and resources to grow
Quality of life, placemaking & cultural enhancement initiatives
Infrastructure development

Grant programs
Access to demographic and other local data
Business, site, and land development projects
Access to Incentives, including tax abatements
Collaborations & project management

Code of Ethics

Community Development Initiatives

Melanie Kellogg, MBA

Executive Director

Melanie Kellogg brings a wealth of experience and a passion for community development to her role as Executive Director. With a background in public relations and marketing, Melanie earned her undergraduate degree from Indiana State University before furthering her education with an MBA from the Scott College of Business at Indiana State University in 2022.

Committed to giving back to her community, Melanie volunteers her time as a member of Noble County Junior Achievement and serves as the board president of Whitley County Junior Achievement. Additionally, she holds the position of board president at Warriors Inc., where she dedicates herself to supporting and empowering local veterans.

Melanie’s dedication and leadership have been recognized by the Fort Wayne Business Weekly, which named her one of their esteemed “40 under 40” honorees.

As Executive Director, Melanie is driven by a vision of fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth within the community. With her strong leadership skills and deep-rooted commitment to service, she is poised to lead our organization to new heights of success and impact.

Mobile (260) 229-3118

Tara Streb

Operations Director

Tara Streb brings a dynamic blend of experience and commitment to community development through her multifaceted roles in the Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Joining the EDC in 2019, Tara has since been an integral force in fostering growth and innovation within the local landscape.

Tara’s dedication extends far beyond her role at the EDC, as she serves on various boards that shape the fabric of her community. Notably, she plays a pivotal role on the Thrive by 5 initiative, recognizing the critical importance of early childhood development. Additionally, Tara’s contributions to the Kendallville City Council ensure the efficient functioning of essential municipal services, while her involvement with the Historic Downtown Kendallville board underscores her commitment to preserving the rich heritage of her region.

In recognition of her outstanding achievements and leadership, Tara was honored as a Fort Wayne Business Weekly 40 under 40 recipient, a testament to her exemplary contributions to both the business and civic spheres. Furthermore, her relentless pursuit of excellence led her to complete the Ambassador Institutes Academy for Civic Engagement in 2024, further enhancing her capacity to effect positive change in her community.

Tara Streb’s passion for community development, coupled with her strategic vision and collaborative approach, continues to drive transformative initiatives that uplift and empower those around her. Through her unwavering dedication and tireless advocacy, Tara exemplifies the epitome of leadership and service, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of her community.

Mobile (260) 318-5301