SOAR Innovation

Kentucky Innovation

Calling all entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky

Just because you don’t have a million dollar marketing budget or an office in Silicon Valley doesn’t mean you’re not an entrepreneur. If you sell something at a store, from your home, or online — you’re an entrepreneur. SOAR Innovation’s mission is to help you be a successful one.

Meet the SOAR Innovation Team

Sabrina McWhorter SOAR

Sabrina McWhorter

Director of Business & Innovation
Kristin Brown, SOAR Innovation rep

Kristin Norman

Digital Strategy Coordinator

Latasha Friend

Client Success Coordinator

Kacy Hicks

Startup Engagement Coordinator

SOAR Innovation now covers all 54 ARC counties

ARC Eastern Kentucky counties

We’re talking – and doing tech – in Appalachia KY

The 2023 Startup Appalachia Pitch Competition, presented by Community Trust Bancorp., was held on Thursday, June 15 at Morehead State University.

Seven finalists — all tech-based startups — competed for a $10,000 grand prize.

Stay tuned for information on the 2024 Startup Appalachia Pitch Competition.

Support our clients in going to the next level

As our clients grow, so does the need for specialized services and support. From website enhancements to strategic marketing, communications, and content creation, our clients are always looking for ways to grow and reach new customers.

That’s why we are compiling a list of service providers to support our clients.

If your business is customer-focused and outcomes-driven, let’s talk.

Considering starting a business?

Read the Complete Guide to Entrepreneurship in Eastern Kentucky

Before you can turn your idea into a thriving business, you have to lay a strong foundation. Pulling from our experience working with hundreds of entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky, we’ve created a five-part, step-by-step guide to help beginners get started.

Get help with business basics

Early entrepreneurs, tap into our direct services

We can help those just starting out on their entrepreneurship journeys get the essentials set up with the least amount of time and money. Reach out to your SOAR Innovation rep today to get started with any one of these six services.

Business planning

Website services

eCommerce services

Google services

Digital media services

Systems for success

Grow your business with SOAR Innovation

Accelerate your growth

Help for entrepreneurs ready to take the next step

When it’s time to build on the basics, we’ve got you covered. Use these resources to steadily improve your operations and marketing — and prepare your business for funding opportunities.

Join the CO.STARTERS accelerator led and taught by the SOAR Innovation team and other experts. You’ll join peer entrepreneurs from right here in our region for practical guidance and step-by-step execution of business processes — all in a group setting.

Reach out to your SOAR Innovation rep to learn how to join the next cohort.

Win seed capital

There are very few, if any, grants available for for-profit businesses in Eastern Kentucky. However, there are resources in place for services related to raising capital and investing in your idea.

Local Funding Partners

Invest 606 Pitch Contest

Let’s make it official

SOAR Innovation has many programs and tools to help entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky. Let us know which ones you’re interested in receiving more information about. You’ll also get email updates in the future about entrepreneurship events, news, and milestones in your county. 

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CO.STARTERS, networking events, or Startup Appalachia Pitch Competition.
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