Applications Open for the Startup Appalachia Accelerator

A business startup accelerator for founders in Eastern Kentucky

Building a Tech or Tech-Enabled Business?

If you’re beyond the idea stage and actively working on a technology or tech-enabled business, the SOAR Innovation Startup Appalachia Accelerator, presented by Community Trust Bank, is now accepting applications.

This is not a general small business class.
It’s a focused program for founders in Eastern Kentucky using technology to build, deliver, or scale their business.

You’ll work directly with experienced entrepreneurs through cohort workshops and one-on-one coaching designed to help you move forward faster and avoid common startup mistakes.

Applications close March 23, 2026.

What Participants Receive

• Weekly founder workshops
• Private coaching with SOAR Innovation’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence
• Small group coaching and peer cohort support
• Practical skills in business technology
• Preparation for pitching and next-stage growth

Participants who successfully complete the program may also be eligible for a reimbursable grant of $3,000–$5,000.

Program Schedule

Program Dates: April 6 – May 18, 2026
Workshops: Mondays, 6–8 p.m. ET (Virtual)
Coaching: Bi-weekly private sessions
One in-person workshop: Date and location TBD
Demo Day Graduation: June 4, 2026

Program Roadmap

Week 1 – Product Focus
Week 2 – Product Coaching
Week 3 – Customer & Market
Week 4 – Customer Coaching
Week 5 – Demand Testing
Week 6 – Validation Coaching
Week 7 – Pricing & Revenue
Week 8 – Demo Day Preparation & Next Steps

Apply to the Startup Appalachia Accelerator by March 23, 2026