Tap into programs designed to start, grow, and strengthen your business
SOAR Innovation offers a portfolio of accelerator programs built exclusively for entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky. Each accelerator meets founders where they are, providing structured guidance, coaching, and connections to help ideas turn into sustainable businesses rooted in the region.
Built for Eastern Kentucky Founders
SOAR Innovation runs business accelerators to help entrepreneurs turn ideas into real, growing businesses. An accelerator is a short, focused program that provides guidance, structure, and support so founders can make progress faster and avoid costly missteps.
Our Eastern Kentucky business accelerators are built for:
• Entrepreneurs who live in Eastern Kentucky and are actively starting or growing a business
• Founders creating solutions that serve Eastern Kentucky people, places, and communities
Some programs are offered across the region, while others are county-based. This allows SOAR Innovation to provide hands-on, relevant support that reflects the unique needs of local businesses and communities.
Find Your Eastern Kentucky Business Accelerator
Our accelerator programs exist to support entrepreneurs
who are invested in Eastern Kentucky’s future.
Startup Appalachia Accelerator
Who this program is for
Founders in Eastern Kentucky—or those building solutions that serve Eastern Kentucky—who are ready to move beyond the idea stage and develop or test an early version of a product or service.
Program highlights
A 12-week cohort-based accelerator focused on validation, business modeling, mentorship, and preparing founders to clearly articulate and grow their business.
Format
Hybrid program with five virtual core sessions, one in-person session, and alternating weeks of mentorship and applied work.
Roadmap
Foundations and market research; value proposition and customer validation; business models and financial planning; growth strategy, storytelling, and Demo Day preparation.
One Clay County Launch + Leap Accelerators
Who this program is for
Exclusively for founders located in Clay County, Kentucky, with two tracks supporting both idea-stage founders and existing local businesses.
Program highlights
A dual-track accelerator with a shared six-week roadmap, hands-on coaching, practical tools, and community-centered support, including micro-grant opportunities when available.
Format
Primarily in-person with locally hosted group sessions, coaching between sessions, and a community-based capstone event.
Roadmap
Foundations and market research; value proposition and messaging; business models and leadership; financial management; marketing and storytelling; Community Showcase and grant awarding when applicable.
The Social Enterprise Accelerator
Who this program is for
Founders in Eastern Kentucky—or those building businesses that serve the region—who are addressing community challenges through sustainable business models.
Program highlights
Cohort-based learning focused on balancing mission and revenue, supported by mentorship, coaching, and tools for measuring impact and long-term sustainability.
Format
Primarily virtual with weekly workshops, coaching support, and select in-person connection points.
Roadmap
Defining the community need; solution design and validation; business and revenue models; financial sustainability; partnerships, storytelling, and Demo Day preparation.
Not sure which accelerator is a good fit?
If you’re a founder in Eastern Kentucky or building something to serve the region,
we can help you find the right fit. Share where you are in your journey, and our team will guide you toward the program that best supports your goals.
Ready to build a business rooted in Eastern Kentucky?
Explore open Eastern Kentucky business accelerators with SOAR Innovation and take the next step.