Pikeville, KY. – Lauren Blankenship has been named a Business and Innovation Champion of SOAR Innovation. She will serve Breathitt, Lee, Powell, Wolfe, Menifee, Morgan, Owsley, and Montgomery counties.
SOAR Innovation is a partnership between Shaping our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR) and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development’s KY Innovation office. SOAR Innovation assists existing small businesses and entrepreneurs whose business or idea has the capability to expand in existing markets or create new markets by leveraging technology.
“As a small business owner herself, Lauren understands the challenges and complexities that fellow entrepreneurs may face,” said Ryan Jones, director of SOAR Innovation. “Lauren is passionate about the region and is excited to use her experience and knowledge to help advance Appalachia Kentucky forward.”
Blankenship has extensive experience in human resources and is a small business owner herself. Her and her husband, Derek, are partners in StayOver Management, a cabin rental business serving the Red River Gorge.
“My passion is helping others to see their full potential, building on their strengths. I enjoy finding new solutions to old problems by working in collaboration with others,” said Blankenship. “As a business owner, I experienced first-hand the challenges of growing a small business in Appalachia. SOAR has consistently provided us with resources and connections we would not have otherwise had. It has been a wonderful experience having others root for your growth and success.”
As a Business and Innovation Champion, Blankenship will work throughout her service area to identify and build relationships with existing small businesses that have the desire and capacity to scale-up utilizing technology through methods of e-commerce, export, etc.
For more information about SOAR Innovation, visit soarinnovation.tech or connect on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Blankenship can be reached at (859) 314-4370 or by email at lauren@soar-ky.org