A Business Workshop Series for Owners
Ready to Grow
Grow with purpose, structure, and the confidence to keep going.
You've built your business.
Now, build on it.
About Ember
You’ve put in the work to get your business off the ground. Now it’s time to grow with structure, support, and a clear plan.
Ember is a five-week in-person workshop for small business owners who are ready to focus and grow.
We begin with a Thursday evening kickoff. It is a working session with real conversation, open Q&A, food, and fun. We meet the following Saturday to start the work, then continue for four more consecutive Saturdays to strengthen and grow your business.
Two Ways to Engage with Ember
Cohort Program
Priority is given to eligible Warren-based businesses.
- Structured, multi-week experience
- Fixed group of established business owners
- Covers core business fundamentals together
- Built for owners ready to commit time and focus
Focused Workshops
Open to business owners across the Mahoning Valley.
- Single-topic learning sessions
- Standalone, focused instruction
- Addresses one decision area at a time
- Built for owners who want clarity without a long commitment
Why Participate?
- You need structure, not more guesswork.
- You’re tired of doing everything on your own.
- You’re done taking advice from people who’ve never run a business.
In Ember, you will:
- Strengthen how you run and grow your business
- Stay accountable with a committed cohort
- Apply each lesson to your business in real time
- Learn alongside owners who understand your challenges
What you'll learn
We’ve been there. Wearing all the hats. Stretching every dollar and wondering what’s next.
Running a small business is personal.
Your business is your future. Your risk. Your name on the door.
We understand the challenges because we’ve lived them. That’s why we built classes that speak to you directly and deliberately.
Each session delivers practical skills, real-world knowledge, and hands-on activities—built to grow your business
from a spark to a bonfire.
FAQ
Cohort or Focused Workshops?
The Cohort Program is a structured, multi-week experience for a fixed group of business owners working together on core business fundamentals. Focused Workshops are single-topic sessions designed to address one decision area at a time and are open to business owners across the Mahoning Valley.
Who can apply?
Criteria as follows:
- Own a business or nonprofit that has been operating for 2+ years
- Registered and in good standing with the Ohio Secretary of State
- Committed to attending all sessions and actively participating in the program
When is the next workshop series?
Late Winter 2026. Before that, we will have by-invite-only group workshops. We highly recommend joining the waiting list for updates.
What is the time commitment?
Ember runs one day a week for five weeks. The Kickoff/first Workshop takes place on a Thursday (learning, fun, and food). The remaining workshops occur on Saturdays, 9 AM-12 PM. View Application info for more details.
Is there a fee?
There is no fee to apply.
For selected applicants, there is a one-time $25 administrative fee. This helps cover the cost of materials, tools, and refreshments provided during the program. It also reflects a shared investment in creating a focused, well-supported learning environment.
How are applicants selected?
Through a selection committee.
Where will sessions take place?
All sessions will be held in person in downtown Warren, Ohio. Location details will be shared with selected participants.
Sponsor Support
Guidance From People Who Get It
Our presenters have led businesses and supported owners through real challenges.
They bring honest insight and practical direction — not theory.
Alec Morris
Business Consultant
Tyron Hoisten
Owner/Producer, Video306
Eric Kildow
Associate Professor, Kent State University
Sherris Moreira
Owner, The Small Town Storyteller
Bethanie Meredith
Certified Yoga Instructor, H.A.T.H.A.
Jennifer Cavanaugh
Bookkeeper, JCL Bookkeeping
Zack Feydo
Cybersecurity Specialist, Mot Technology
Paul Finch
Certified Financial Planner
Denise Dick
Communications Professional