Catalyze EKY

$5,000 cash for relocation and personalized guidance from local connectors to help you settle comfortably into Eastern Kentucky

Connectivity Perks - Stay connected from day one with complimentary phone service and activation from Appalachian Wireless

Startup Acceleration Access - Gain exclusive access to a network of investors, funders, and accelerator partners, opening opportunities for future startup funding and mentorship

Mentorship & Coaching - Work directly with the SOAR Innovation team and their Entrepreneur-in-Residence for tailored guidance designed to accelerate your growth and impact

Networking & Community - Expand your reach through exclusive invitations to ecosystem events, quarterly Regional Founders Gatherings, and peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities within the broader Appalachian startup network

Regional Integration - Gain meaningful connections with local leaders, innovators, and partners who are committed to helping your business thrive in Eastern Kentucky

Total Incentive

$6,000

Description

Catalyze EKY: Where Innovation Finds Its Roots!

Catalyze EKY is more than a relocation program—it’s a founder-first pathway powered by SOAR Innovation, one of Kentucky’s six regional innovation hubs.

For entrepreneurs ready to bring their ideas and families to Eastern Kentucky, this program combines the unmatched quality of life our region offers with intensive support, coaching, and mentoring tailored to help tech-based businesses grow.

Participants will gain direct access to our Entrepreneur-in-Residence, opportunities to participate in SOAR’s accelerator programs, and connections to capital through networks like the Appalachian Innovation Investment Fund, all designed to help your business scale faster. Alongside seasoned mentors and a collaborative community of peers, Catalyze EKY provides the resources and support you need to thrive.

It’s a great place to live—and an even better place to launch.

Why Build in Eastern Kentucky?

Eastern Kentucky combines affordable costs, strong mentorship, and a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, making it ideal for launching and growing a tech business. Founders benefit from access to accelerators, funding, and a skilled workforce, all within a community invested in innovation and long-term economic growth.

Don't just take our word for it - hear from others building their businesses in Eastern Kentucky...

“Through SOAR's 1:1 coaching, networking, brainstorming, and relationship building, Sunflower Fuels has gained access to candidates for employment, prospective investors, and prospective customers. Thanks to SOAR’s support, I’ve not only strengthened my startup’s foundation but also expanded my network in ways I never imagined."

-Gaby Blocher, CEO of Sunflower Fuels

"SOAR has been more than a program — it’s been a bridge. Their guidance, encouragement, and connections have helped transform MountainView from a dream into a growing company that represents what’s possible for entrepreneurs in Eastern Kentucky."

-Alex Lamb, Founder & CEO of MountainView GeoSystems LLC

What can selected participants expect?

🤝 Financial & Professional Support

Participants receive a comprehensive package designed to ease their move and accelerate their success. This includes a $5,000 cash relocation incentive and a guaranteed spot in the nearest accelerator cohort with a monetary award upon completion. Founders will also receive a complimentary SOAR Summit ticket and exhibitor booth—a prime opportunity to connect with innovators across the region.

🚀 Mentorship, Coaching & Networking

Founders gain access to a powerful support network designed to foster growth and connection. Participants receive personalized mentorship and coaching from the SOAR Innovation team, along with direct guidance from the Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). They’re invited to entrepreneurial ecosystem events that expand their networks and visibility, as well as quarterly Regional Founders Gatherings—complete with mileage and meal stipends. Participants can also mentor or be mentored within the broader Appalachian startup community, building lasting relationships that strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem.

Meet Rick West - Our Entrepreneur in Residence at SOAR

Meet our Entrepreneur in Residence, Rick West, as he shares his journey from Pike County, Kentucky, to the global stage, and back again.

🏠 Lifestyle & Relocation Support

We make your move to Eastern Kentucky seamless and welcoming. Participants receive housing assistance through Eastern KY Realtors and the local Housing Guide, plus personalized 1:1 relocation support from program directors and community connectors to help them settle in quickly. To top it off, enjoy free phone service and activation from Appalachian Wireless through the Switch, Save, and Stay Connected program—keeping you connected from day one.

This program is sponsored by SOAR Innovation, one of Kentucky's six regional innovation hubs.

Am I eligible?

To be considered, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:

The applicant must currently reside outside of Kentucky.
The applicant must be a U.S citizen eligible to work in the U.S.
The applicant must be 18 years or older.
The applicant must be a part of the core leadership team of a startup, an established business, or a company preparing to launch.
The applicant must relocate to one of the 29 eligible counties (Bath, Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Carter, Clay, Elliott, Floyd, Greenup, Harlan. Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Owsley, Pike, Perry, Rowan, Whitley, and Wolfe).
The applicant must register the business headquarters in one of the 29 eligible counties within 6 months of relocation.