The Refinery Business Center to host professional development workshop

The Refinery Business Center, a Marion-based co-working environment, will be offering a creative intensive workshop called SparkTank on Saturday, Feb. 27 at 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The three-hour workshop is open to entrepreneurs of all skill levels and will be broken into 30-minute
sessions. Participants will be provided with methods for assessing potential business concepts, branding, marketing, and a formal business plan while being coached by seasoned professionals experienced in ideation, branding, market research, sales, legal consulting and product development. The event will conclude with a luncheon and pitch event where attendees can gain valuable feedback on their business ideas.

As a partner of The Refinery, Indiana Wesleyan University has provided this opportunity to encourage growth in Indiana business through support of the Lilly Endowment grant, “Accelerate Indiana.” 

“SparkTank combines the creative ideation of group brainstorming with the practical guidance from professional coaches to help aspiring entrepreneurs maintain realistic market-driven expectations,” said Carol Brown, associate dean of Life Calling and Career. “IWU and other sponsors are excited to see an increasing participation of our community in sharing knowledge, motivation and support toward future growth.”

The Refinery opened in September 2015 and provides entrepreneurs, start-up businesses and students an affordable work environment. Members are provided a professional work environment, free Wi-Fi, printer access and conference rooms in addition to the opportunity to
collaborate with local professionals.

​SparkTank will take place at The Refinery Business Center in Marion, Indiana.