2026 AI for Startups Sprint Series

No-cost AI business-use training designed for Eastern Kentucky founders

Build a Smarter Startup with AI, One Sprint at a Time

The AI for Startups Sprint Series helps entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky explore how artificial intelligence can make their business journey faster, smarter, and more creative. 

Whether you’re validating an idea, growing a business, or simply curious about how AI fits into your workflow, this 4-session series is designed to meet you where you are and help you move forward in your business with confidence. 

We’ve completed the first cycle of this Sprints Series, but you can access past sessions below.

Register to stay in the know about future events!

Your Sprint Outcomes


More than tools or templates, this series is about building the mindset and muscle memory to use AI thoughtfully as part of your entrepreneurial process.

By the end of the AI for Startups Sprint Series, participants will:

  • Validate an idea using structured prompts and feedback loops
  • Improve customer discovery and messaging
  • Build a simple prototype or workflow concept
  • Strengthen their storytelling and pitch delivery
  • Gain confidence using AI as a practical startup tool

Access Past Sessions

If you missed any of our sessions over the past month or want to re-watch them, you can click the links below to access them.

Meet the SOAR Innovation Team

SOAR Innovation supports founders and entrepreneurs across Eastern Kentucky by providing access to education, resources, and networks that help ideas grow into sustainable businesses. Our team of experts will ensure the AI for Startups Sprint Series is action-oriented and practical, emphasizes experimentation over perfection, and encourages peer learning and knowledge sharing.

Danna Barnett

Director of Entrepreneurship

Rick West

Entrepreneur in Residence

Kevin Davis

Entrepreneur in Residence

Sarah Fugate

Business Programs Manager

Riley Thompson

Startup Outreach Coordinator

Colt Swint

Startup Pipeline Coordinator

Luke Howard

Startup Outreach Coordinator

Jarad Fugate

Startup Success Specialist

Save Your Spot for the AI for Startups Sprint Series

Our first round of sessions was a huge success, make sure you reserve your spot for the next round!