SOAR’s Social Enterprise Accelerator (SEA) Program is designed to support, connect, and empower entrepreneurs across the Eastern Kentucky region. It focuses on businesses that tackle key regional challenges like childcare, housing, and workforce development.
What Is a Social Enterprise?
A social enterprise is a business for social good, designed to maximize profits while creating positive impacts in the region. Instead of paying shareholders, profits are reinvested into advancing the social mission. Focused on revenue, sustainability, and a clear social cause, it blends financial success with meaningful change.
Through a 12-week accelerator program, SEA provides participants with:
- Mentorship
- Business Development Resources
- Technical Assistance
- Connections to Funding Opportunities
Building on EKY’s Resilience
Eastern Kentucky has long been home to an entrepreneurial spirit driven by innovation, necessity, and resilience. SEA builds on this legacy by creating an environment where enterprises can develop strong business models, gain critical insights, and access the funding they need to scale their impact.
Participants in the SEA Program engage in a 12-week accelerator experience where they receive tailored guidance to refine their businesses. The program doesn’t just focus on theory—it’s designed for real-world application, ensuring that entrepreneurs walk away with actionable strategies and connections that will move their ventures forward.
Industry Expert Support and Resources
One of the program’s most valuable elements is direct technical assistance from industry experts. Entrepreneurs receive individualized support from professionals in key fields, including:
- Childcare business development through the Appalachian Childcare Network, ensuring that early learning businesses have the resources and expertise they need to succeed.
- Affordable housing innovation supported by the Housing Development Alliance, which helps businesses develop sustainable housing solutions.
- Financial planning and funding access through the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, giving businesses guidance on securing capital and investment.
Beyond these resources, the SEA Program provides entrepreneurs with dedicated collaborative workspaces to grow ideas into reality, networking opportunities, and ongoing mentorship that extends well beyond the accelerator experience.
Work With Us on the SOAR SEA Program
Do you want to help EKY residents bring their business ideas to life?
The SEA Program is growing, and SOAR is looking for passionate individuals to help support its mission. If you or someone you know is looking to work with entrepreneurs, building strong business ecosystems, and helping businesses succeed, we invite you to explore opportunities to join our team.
Open Positions
SEA Support Analyst – Research, Business Development & Data Analysis
This role is ideal for someone who thrives on research, data analysis, and working directly with businesses to help them make informed decisions.
The SEA Support Analyst will conduct:
- Market Research
- Evaluate Business Models
- Support program participants by providing valuable insights and recommendations.
Successful candidates for this role should be comfortable working with:
- Financial Models
- Market Research
- Startup Strategies
A background in finance, business development, or economic research is a strong plus.
SEA Coordinator – Program Management & Community Engagement
The SEA Coordinator position is focused on:
- Building Relationships
- Overseeing Program Operations
- Fostering Connections
This person will work closely with entrepreneurs, mentors, and community partners to organize events, coordinate programming, and ensure that SEA participants receive the support they need.
Candidates should be skilled in:
- Program Coordination
- Event Planning
- Stakeholder Engagement
Prior experience in community development, economic ecosystem building, or business support is highly beneficial. Both roles offer an opportunity to work at the intersection of economic development and entrepreneurship, making a direct impact in Eastern Kentucky.
If you’re ready to be part of a forward-thinking, impact-driven team, explore career opportunities with us today.