Marion Vibrant Community Adds Coworking Space to Downtown Revitalization

Completing the Marion Vibrant Community project is a pivotal step forward in the revitalization of Marion's downtown area.

“This project in Marion is a perfect example of how communities can preserve history while simultaneously working toward a brighter future,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “By investing in historic downtown districts like this, we are creating jobs, attracting new businesses, and fostering a sense of pride and community spirit.”

The Henry Development Group has been revitalizing downtown Marion by connecting historic buildings with modern-day uses. The team buys, restores, and leases commercial storefronts, office space, and residential loft apartments. Henry Development is focused on growing community—bringing people together in inspiring, creative, and unique places and spaces.

“Since we started redeveloping our historic downtown, I dreamed of a coworking space—a place to connect, inspire, and equip local dreamers and doers so those individuals could go on to start and grow local businesses and, in turn, our local economy! When I heard about the Vibrant Communities program, I knew we needed to partner with JobsOhio on this project! Even the name, Vibrant Communities, so completely captured my desire and vision for our downtown and this important piece of its evolution and growth.”

Coordinated by the Henry Development Group and bolstered by a $167,500 JobsOhio Vibrant Communities grant, the facility, located at 181 East Center Street, now houses Marion County’s first coworking space, Connect Coworx, which occupies 7,100 square feet. It serves as a hub for the Marion area’s professionals, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

“The revitalization of 181 East Center Street in Marion exemplifies our strategy to stimulate economic growth in small and mid-sized towns across the state through the Vibrant Communities Program,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “By converting underutilized spaces into thriving business centers, we're not only creating jobs but also catalyzing further investment in Ohio communities in need of a boost.”

The initiative has transformed a 12,460-square-foot building into a center for business and creativity. Additional tenants include central Ohio accounting firm Holbrook & Manter and Dostal & Kirk, an insurance and financial services agency.

“The new development serves as a cornerstone for future growth, bringing new energy and opportunities to our downtown,” Mayor Bill Collins said. “It’s a place where innovation meets community, driving Marion forward."

Statewide, the JobsOhio Vibrant Communities program has facilitated 25 projects since 2021, representing a total investment of $109 million, with $18 million contributed by JobsOhio. In 2024 alone, six programs have led to investments totaling $9.8 million, demonstrating JobsOhio's commitment to revitalizing Ohio’s diverse communities.