Local Entrepreneurs Invited to Join Free Business Classes and Win up to $2,500 in The Forge Competition

Aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners are invited to take part in The Forge business classes supported by Alluvial Private Wealth. Hosted by Marion Technical College, the classes running from August 26 to October 7. It’s open to start-ups and existing small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The top students can submit their business plans and compete for thousands of dollars in prizes in the Alluvial Private Wealth Forge Competition on Oct. 14 at 5 p.m.

Classes take place Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Health Technology Center (HTC) auditorium on the Marion Campus. Registration is now open and free to all participants at www.mtc.edu/the-forge/.

“Whether you’re starting a new enterprise or expanding your small business, The Forge offers practical, hands-on support for turning your vision into reality,” said Mike Augenstein, director of Workforce Solutions at Marion Tech. “Classes are completely free due to our generous sponsors.”

The Forge curriculum covers essential topics such as:

• Writing a Business Plan
• Developing a Cash Flow Projection
• Financing the Business
• Business Record Keeping
• Marketing and Advertising

Following the classes, top students will present their business plans in a “Shark Tank”-style competition judged by a panel of business experts and community leaders. Winners will receive seed funding to help bring their business plans to life.

The Forge was launched in 2017 by the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership Marion! class. It continues to grow with strong community support. In addition to presenting sponsor Alluvial Private Wealth, the Forge is generously supported by local business leaders Gary and Mary Ann Ferriman and Steve and Brenda Johnston. The Chamber also continues to offer generous support to all Forge students and competitors.

“Our mission grow and support small businesses,” said Augenstein. “This program is about equipping local entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.”

Past winners include a wide range of business owners and nonprofits who have gone on to contribute to Marion’s economy and community, including Drake Tulloh with Painless Fleet Maintenance; Elaine Strine with Musicians 1 Stop and C.L. Gregory Nonprofit Music Academy; Maeghan and Justin Malone with Belenos Creations; and many more.

To learn more or register, visit www.mtc.edu or contact Mike Augenstein at (740) 386-4138.