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Fall 2026 Cohort Kickoff | Social Enterprise Accelerator

September 3 @ 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Free

Join us as we welcome the newest cohort of social entrepreneurs and celebrate the start of another journey toward stronger communities across Eastern Kentucky.

The SOAR Social Enterprise Accelerator Kickoff marks the official launch of the Fall 2026 Social Enterprise Accelerator cohort. This special event brings together fellows, community leaders, entrepreneurial support organizations, local governments, funders, and partners for an afternoon of connection, inspiration, and collaboration.

Whether you’re curious about the Social Enterprise Accelerator, interested in supporting community-driven businesses, or looking to connect with entrepreneurs creating solutions to local challenges, this event is an opportunity to see the impact of social entrepreneurship firsthand.

Learn how the Social Enterprise Accelerator is helping strengthen communities across Eastern Kentucky—and meet the changemakers leading the way.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, September 3, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: LKLP
412 Roy Campbell Drive
Hazard, KY 41701
Cost: Free

What to Expect

During this kickoff celebration, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Meet the Fall 2026 Social Enterprise Accelerator fellows
  • Learn how the Social Enterprise Accelerator supports entrepreneurs tackling community challenges
  • Hear from accelerator alumni about their experiences and impact
  • Gain insights from regional leaders and community partners
  • Connect with entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, local governments, funders, and business support organizations
  • Build relationships that can lead to future collaboration throughout the accelerator
Featured Speakers

Expert Panel

  • Jordan Stidham, LKLP Community Action Council, Inc.
  • Karen “KT” Thompson, Appalachian Early Childhood Network (AECN)
  • Andrea Muñoz, Mountain Association
  • Amanda Kelly, Southeast Kentucky Economic Development (SKED)

Alumni Panel

  • Aaron Loveland, Loveland Brand Design
  • Khaled Sabry, Orascom, Inc.
  • Beck Reffitt, Founder, Keesee Housing Solutions
Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for:

  • Entrepreneurs and startups
  • Community leaders
  • Local government representatives
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs)
  • Economic development professionals
  • Funders and stakeholders
  • Anyone interested in strengthening communities through social entrepreneurship
About the Social Enterprise Accelerator

The Social Enterprise Accelerator helps mission-driven entrepreneurs develop sustainable businesses that address real community needs across Eastern Kentucky. Through intensive coaching, mentorship, practical business training, and a collaborative network of peers and partners, fellows spend 12 weeks turning innovative ideas into lasting community impact.

The kickoff celebration is your opportunity to learn more about the program while encouraging and supporting the newest cohort as they begin their accelerator journey.

Register Today

Join us in celebrating the next generation of community changemakers and discover how the Social Enterprise Accelerator is creating lasting impact across Eastern Kentucky.

RSVP today to reserve your spot.

 

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