At SOAR, we believe every person in Eastern Kentucky deserves access to meaningful work, a steady income, and the opportunity to build a life right here at home.

That belief is at the heart of the Eastern Kentucky Runway Program—a new, region-wide initiative designed to restore economic mobility, reverse population loss, and give Eastern Kentuckians a clear path toward a better future.

This $50+ million investment, funded through the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Recompete Pilot Program, was awarded to SOAR to build long-term solutions to our region’s most pressing workforce challenges.

And now, we’re putting that investment to work.

A Region Ready for Renewal

The Eastern Kentucky Runway Program is focused on 12 counties—Bell, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Perry, and Pike—where far too many people have been left behind by traditional job markets.

In these counties, the Prime-Age Employment Gap (ages 25–54) is nearly 35%, far above the national average of just 5%. That means more than 33,000 working-age adults are currently disconnected from the workforce.

And that’s not the only challenge. Across the region:

• The average per capita income is just $21,855—only 53% of the national average.
• Families spend an average of 47% of their income on childcare, compared to 19% nationally.
• Despite over 8,400 job postings last year, the majority were entry-level and low-wage—making it difficult for people to find work that offers long-term stability.

A Program Designed for—and by—Eastern Kentuckians

EKY Runway isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a personalized approach that meets people where they are and helps them build the future they want.

Through a combination of:

• One-on-one support from trained coaches and mentors
• Free skills training in high-demand industries like healthcare, technology, and energy
• Support for remote work and digital careers
• Opportunities to start or grow a small business

This initiative is helping people across Eastern Kentucky find their way back into the workforce and into careers that offer real purpose.

“This program is designed by and for our community,” said Will Warren, Program Officer for the EKY Runway Program. “We’re not just filling jobs. We’re building stronger families, resilient communities, and a future where every Kentuckian can achieve their full potential.”

Building on Momentum

SOAR has already seen what’s possible when we invest in people. Through the EKY Talent Network, job seekers are already finding success—with average salaries reaching $52,000/year.

Now, the Eastern Kentucky Runway Program builds on that foundation with seven integrated projects to help even more Eastern Kentuckians re-enter the workforce and thrive. Whether someone is returning to work after time away, learning a new skill, or launching a business—they won’t have to do it alone.

“This isn’t just another project,” said SOAR Executive Director Colby Hall. “It’s a lifeline for our people and a turning point for our region. It’s about making sure no one has to leave the place they love to find a good job.”

Let’s Build Eastern Kentucky’s Comeback Story—Together

The Eastern Kentucky Runway Program is more than a program. It’s a movement to rebuild our economy from the ground up, one person and one job at a time.

Everyone deserves a chance at the American Dream: fulfilling, meaningful work that allows them to provide for their families. The EKY Runway Program believes Eastern Kentucky will rise again—one job at a time.

Stay Connected. Get Involved. Be Part of the Solution.

Are you someone looking for work, training, or a fresh start?
If you’re ready to take the next step toward meaningful employment, we’re here to walk with you. Whether you’re exploring a new career path, interested in working remotely, or want to turn your idea into a business, EKY Runway can help you get there. Sign up here to learn more about how we can support your journey.

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Signing up for our newsletter will make you the first to hear about success stories, training opportunities, and significant milestones. Join a growing network of leaders and changemakers committed to restoring economic mobility in our region.

Are you an employer ready to make a difference?
Whether you’re looking to fill critical roles or tap into a future-ready talent pipeline, our Employer Coordinators are ready to connect. Start the conversation here and discover how your company can be part of Eastern Kentucky’s comeback story.