Entrepreneurs from across Clay County gathered at EKU Manchester to showcase their businesses, growth plans, and community impact during the One Clay County (1CC) Launch + Leap Community Showcase.
The event celebrated the completion of the Launch and Leap accelerator programs, led by One Clay County in partnership with SOAR Innovation. Over several weeks, participants worked closely with the SOAR Innovation team to strengthen business models, refine operations, and prepare for long-term growth.
The showcase highlighted more than business ideas — it demonstrated the power of collaboration, local investment, and entrepreneurship in Eastern Kentucky.
Building Opportunity Through Partnership
One Clay County Executive Director Michael White emphasized the importance of community partnerships in supporting entrepreneurs.
“Today was a great example of a partnership between our local community, entrepreneurs, One Clay County, and SOAR,” White said. “When partnerships come together, great things can happen—and we’re seeing that in the success of these businesses.”
The Launch + Leap programs were supported through an $85,000 investment from One Clay County to help fund the initiative and provide resources to participating entrepreneurs.
SOAR Chief Operating Officer Joshua Ball said the program goes beyond traditional business training.
“This is a true partnership between One Clay County and SOAR Innovation, where we’re not just providing training—we’re connecting entrepreneurs to resources, funding, and opportunities to grow,” Ball said. “These businesses are leaving with more than ideas—they’re leaving with purpose and the tools to be part of Clay County’s future.”
Why Small Businesses Matter
Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers spoke about the role small businesses play in strengthening communities and local economies.
“It’s these small businesses—two, three, four, five employees—that create the backbone of our economy,” Stivers said. “That’s how we create opportunity, keep people here, and bring others back to our communities.”
Community leaders also highlighted the importance of creating spaces where entrepreneurs feel supported.
“This kind of encouragement is something a lot of people never have when they try to start a new venture,” said Clay County community leader and pastor Tess Lipps. “It can be a lonely process, so it was great to see people come together and support one another. We need success in Clay County.”
Entrepreneurs Bringing New Ideas to Clay County
Participants represented a wide range of industries, including agriculture, food service, creative arts, tourism, retail, and specialty trades.
One featured business, Slab & Cedar Ceramics / The Porch Goose, is expanding beyond pottery into a creative community space designed to connect artists and consumers.
“The Porch Goose is going to be a creative space with artist-led classes, but also a gallery and gift shop featuring work inspired by Clay County,” founder Kelcey Moore said. “We want to highlight our local makers and showcase the talent we have here.”
Other participants focused on creating experience-driven businesses that build community connections alongside economic opportunity.
“It’s not just about selling a product—it’s about building experiences, skills, and community,” said Jared Smith, owner of J-Rod Customs and Repair.
Several entrepreneurs also shared how the program helped strengthen key business areas like marketing, operations, and long-term planning.
Meet the Launch Fellows
The Launch Program supports Clay County residents in the early stages of developing a business idea.
This year’s Launch Fellows included:
- Shannon Garrett – Shannon Marie Art / Potter’s Will
- Annette Mitchell – Sweet Annie’s
- Jared Smith – J-Rod Customs and Repair
Meet the Leap Fellows
The Leap Program supports entrepreneurs who are further along in building and growing their businesses.
Leap Fellows included:
- Michael Bargo – Bargo’s Guns & Ammo
- Maggie Bowling – Old Homeplace Farm
- Lisa and Amy Bourque – Acres of Grace Farm
- Brittany Jackson – Muttin Fancy Pet Grooming & Designs LLC
- Kelcey Moore – Slab & Cedar Ceramics / The Porch Goose
- Michael Moore – 606 Kitchen
- John Taylor Smith – Cross Mountain Campground
Applications Opening Soon
Applications for the next Launch + Leap cohort will open soon, with a deadline to apply by Friday, August 28, 2026.
The programs are designed to help entrepreneurs at different stages of business development gain access to coaching, technical support, and resources that strengthen long-term success.
Programs like Launch + Leap continue to create pathways for innovation, business growth, and economic resilience across Eastern Kentucky.