When people think about conferences, they often think about keynote speakers.
They think about presentations. They think about experts sharing information from a stage.
There is value in that. But some of the most important ideas never come from a podium.
- They come from conversations.
- They come from lived experience.
- They come from people who are solving problems, creating opportunities, and making a difference in their communities every day.
That is why one of the biggest priorities of the 2026 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, is creating more opportunities for Eastern Kentuckians to share their stories, ideas, and experiences.
Because the future needs more voices.
Eastern Kentucky Has a Story to Tell
Across the region, people are doing extraordinary things.
- They are launching businesses.
- Creating jobs.
- Revitalizing downtowns.
- Supporting students.
- Expanding healthcare access.
- Preserving culture and heritage.
- Building stronger communities.
Often, these stories never make headlines. But they matter. And they deserve to be shared.
The Summit provides an opportunity to bring those stories together and learn from the people behind them. Because when one community discovers something that works, others can benefit from those lessons as well.
Learning from the People Doing the Work
The most valuable lessons are often practical.
What worked? What didn’t? How did you overcome challenges? What would you do differently? How can others replicate your success?
These are the types of conversations the Summit is designed to encourage.
The goal is not simply to inspire attendees. The goal is to equip them.
To help them return home with ideas, connections, and strategies they can put into action.
More Ways to Participate
This year’s Summit includes more opportunities than ever for attendees to contribute directly to the experience.
The return of TenTalks will provide a platform for Eastern Kentucky residents to share innovative ideas, lessons learned, and perspectives that can help shape the future of the region.
The EKY Experience will showcase the people, organizations, businesses, and communities driving progress across Eastern Kentucky.
Workshops and breakout sessions will create opportunities for attendees to engage directly with practitioners and subject-matter experts.
Together, these experiences help transform attendees from observers into participants.
Every Voice Has a Role to Play
Not everyone will take a stage. Not everyone will present a session. Not everyone will host an exhibit.
But everyone brings something valuable to the conversation.
- A new perspective.
- A challenge.
- An idea.
- A question.
- A connection.
- A solution.
The future of Eastern Kentucky will be shaped by people willing to share those things with one another.
And that work begins when we come together.
Join the Conversation
If you care about the future of Eastern Kentucky, your voice matters.
Join us October 7–9, 2026, in Corbin, Kentucky, for the 2026 SOAR Summit.
Registration is now open.
Because the future won’t build itself, it starts with you.