The Business Refinery: Turning Ideas Into Business
Are You Ready to Stop "Researching" and Start Building?
You've been thinking about your business idea for over a year. Maybe you've researched your market, saved inspirational quotes about entrepreneurship, and told yourself "someday" more times than you can count. The problem isn't your idea—it's the clarity to move forward with confidence.
The Business Refinery takes rough, unclear ideas and helps you refine them into crystal-clear, executable business models.
Your Brilliant Idea Deserves a Brilliant Plan
Is This You?
✅ You've had a business idea brewing for 12+ months
✅ You're tired of "researching" and ready for real action
✅ You need more than inspiration—you need a roadmap
✅ You want a safe space to refine your idea
✅ You're ready to invest in yourself and your future
If you're nodding yes, you belong here.
Clarity Creates the Confidence to Take Action
Why The Business Refinery Works
The Real Problem Isn't Your Idea
Most aspiring entrepreneurs don't move forward because they lack clarity, not creativity. You don't need another course on "finding your passion"—you need a systematic process to transform your existing idea into an executable plan.
The Business Refinery: Turning Ideas Into Business
Investment in Your Future
$150
This investment covers all 6 sessions, materials, worksheets, and ongoing support throughout the program.
Payment plans available. Limited scholarships for qualifying applicants.
Meet Karen Swinger MBA, Your Guide
Business Strategist & Idea-to-Execution Expert
Karen A. Swinger, MBA, is the CEO and Founder of Midwest Management Services LLC, bringing over 25 years of transforming ideas into reality—from corporate intrapreneurship to entrepreneurial ventures.
From Ideas to Execution:
- Corporate Intrapreneur: Planning and executing new initiatives within established organizations, including international construction and health projects
- Community Venture Creation: Designing and implementing plans for a social enterprise cafe geared to those 55+ from concept to reality
- Educational Innovation: Developing an educational support program from initial concept through franchise development
- Business Coaching: Guiding entrepreneurs through the critical phases of turning ideas into profitable businesses
Her Credentials:
- MBA in Business Management
- Graduate Certificate in Electronic Commerce Management
- Bachelor's degree in Small Business Management & Entrepreneurship
- UIC-SEA Social Enterprise Certificate (sustainable social enterprises)
Why Karen Gets It:
Whether working within corporations as an intrapreneur or building her own ventures, Karen has consistently specialized in one thing: taking ideas and making them happen. She understands every phase from initial concept through successful execution because she's lived it repeatedly—in corporate settings, international projects, community initiatives, and her own businesses.
"I've spent over two decades in the space between 'what if' and 'what is.' I know exactly where ideas get stuck, and more importantly, I know how to get them unstuck and moving toward reality." ~Karen Swinger, MBA
Ready to Stop Researching and Start Refining?
Two Ways to Get Started:
1. Apply Directly
Complete our simple application to secure your spot in the October cohort.
2. Attend Our Information Session
Join us for a brief overview, Q&A, and a taste of our process.
Next Information Session:
Saturday, September 20th, 10am - 11:30am
Application Process
Step 1: Complete our brief application
Step 2: 15-minute phone conversation
Step 3: Welcome to your cohort!
We review applications to ensure:
- No competing businesses in the same cohort
- Commitment to the full 12-week program
- Alignment with our collaborative community values
The Time Is Now!
You've spent enough time researching, wondering, and waiting. Your idea deserves more than an Instagram save—it deserves the clarity and structure to become reality.
The Business Refinery is where dreams get down to business.
Applications are being accepted now for our October 4th cohort.
Questions? Email karen@midwestmanage.com