The future of Appalachia isn’t something we sit around and wait for. It’s something we build together. The 2025 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Region Commission, is where that work happens.
From August 26–29, the region’s biggest and boldest gathering returns to the Corbin Arena, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, elected leaders, problem-solvers, and people who simply believe in Eastern Kentucky.
Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, launching a business, or just passionate about where we’re headed, this is your place to learn, connect, and get inspired.
Here are the top five reasons to be there.
1. A Customizable Experience for Every Schedule and Budget
Think you can’t attend? Think again. The 2025 SOAR Summit is built to fit your life, and your budget.
With three flexible ticket tiers ranging from $150 to $300, there’s a pass for every schedule and focus:
- Program Pass ($150): For the hands-on learner who wants two days of breakout sessions, community events, and inspiration.
- Plenary Pass ($200): For those focused on big-picture conversations, major announcements, and national thought leaders.
- All-Access Pass ($300): For those who want it all — every session, every speaker, every opportunity.
This year’s tracks include AI, Workforce, Innovation, Tourism, and Capacity, and the content is tailored for everyone from mayors and nonprofit leaders to students, creatives, and entrepreneurs.
You belong here, and there’s a seat with your name on it.
2. Free Events That Bring Eastern Kentucky to Life
SOAR Summit ticketholders get access to free events in Corbin during the week of the event.
Aug. 26: Final Destination: Movie Screening + Q&A with Creator Jeffrey Reddick. This exclusive screening and Q&A is free to SOAR Summit ticketholders. It’s also open to the public, who have to reserve their $8 tickets by calling Cinema Social in Corbin, KY.
Aug. 27-28: The EKY Experience Exhibit & Expo Hall, presented by Appalachian Regional Healthcare, brings together the region’s most impactful organizations to showcase the innovation and resilience happening in every corner of Eastern Kentucky.
Aug. 27: PurposeWorks Public Job and Resource Fair, presented by Goodwill Kentucky and Branscum Construction, is designed to help people connect to real opportunities. It’s happening August 27 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the EKY Experience Expo Hall and is also open to the public.
Aug. 27: Join us at 6:30 p.m. for the annual SOAR Inspires Awards presented by KCTCS at the Corbin Arena. Ticketholders can cheer on their favorite Eastern Kentucky heros!
Aug 28: Taste of Corbin presented by Whitaker Bank, with a Toast to Corbin sponsored by Corbin Tourism and powered by Ale-8-One.
These events are included with every ticket, and packed with purpose.
3. SOAR Inspires Awards: A Moment That Moves You
If you need a reminder of what’s possible in Eastern Kentucky, or if you’re coming to support a friend or loved one receiving an award, you’ll find it at the annual 2025 SOAR Inspires Awards.
This is one of the most moving moments of the Summit, a celebration of individuals and organizations going above and beyond to make lasting change. The event will take place on Wednesday, August 27 at 6:30 p.m. at the Corbin Arena.
You can see the full list of winners here.
4. National and State Voices Ready to Listen
Big names are coming to the 2025 SOAR Summit not just to speak, but to learn. From the national stage to Kentucky’s capital, leaders want to hear what’s working in Appalachia and what’s needed next.
Expected speakers include:
- U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers
- Gov. Andy Beshear
- Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers
- Jeffrey Reddick, Filmmaker and Eastern Kentucky native
- Brent Orrell, American Enterprise Institute
- Anthony Pipa, Brookings Institution
This is your chance to get in front of changemakers, and shape how people see and invest in our region.
5. Real Access to the People Who Can Move Mountains
If you’re tired of red tape and waiting on someone else to fix it, the SOAR Summit is your chance to change that.
Here, you don’t just listen to changemakers, you sit across the table from them. You can pitch your project, advocate for your community, and spark new partnerships that have the potential to unlock funding, ideas, and collaboration.
In Appalachia, we know the power of face-to-face conversations, and at the Summit, those conversations can turn into real change.
Be Part of What’s Next for Eastern Kentucky
The 2025 SOAR Summit isn’t just about what’s happening, it’s about what’s possible. Whether you come for the ideas, the people, or the momentum, you’ll leave more equipped and inspired than ever.
- August 26–29
- The Corbin Arena
- One-day and two-day tickets available
Register today and step into the future of Eastern Kentucky.