Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky’s Mountain region offers a seamless blend of the state’s iconic bluegrass and the rugged beauty of the Appalachian terrain. Here, nature's splendor is ever-present, with tall mountains, valleys, and stunning seasonal foliage creating a breathtaking landscape. 
Whether you're drawn to mountain vistas or the allure of outdoor adventures, the Mountains have it all. Explore miles of trails perfect for hiking, biking, and walking. Challenge yourself by reaching Kentucky’s highest peak, where panoramic views of the valleys below await. Thrill-seekers can enjoy ATV riding on scenic trails, while those seeking a more relaxed pace can indulge in horseback riding and fishing, both cherished local pastimes.
Immerse yourself here! Experience authentic moonshine tastings and savor scratch-made meals that reflect the region's heritage. Eastern Kentucky isn't just a place to visit; it's a place to live, explore, and thrive.


Eastern Kentucky’s Mountain region, in the heart of the Appalachians, offers breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, ATV riding, and fishing. You can also enjoy local traditions such as moonshine tastings and homemade meals, making it a rich and vibrant destination.

Whitley County

Let the Mountains Move You in Eastern Kentucky

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky blends the state’s bluegrass heritage with the rugged beauty of mountain living. Towering peaks, rolling valleys, and vibrant seasonal foliage create a backdrop unlike anywhere else, while welcoming communities make it easy to feel at home. Whether you’re exploring scenic trails, enjoying local music, or connecting with neighbors at festivals and events, The Mountain Towns of Eastern Kentucky offer a way of life where nature, culture, and community come together.

To see what eligible counties are home to Eastern Kentucky's mountain towns, check out the counties highlighted in pink below:

Choosing a new place to call home is a big step, and in Eastern Kentucky, you’re not just relocating—you’re joining a community steeped in tradition, creativity, and Appalachian pride. Our program makes your transition seamless and inspiring by offering unique incentives designed to help you settle in, explore our culture, and experience everything this region has to offer.


Receive a $5,000 relocation stipend, plus the opportunity to earn an additional $2,500 bonus if your partner lands a qualifying local job in education or healthcare.


Save on day-to-day essentials with discounted phone service and activation through Appalachian Wireless.


From personalized relocation guidance to a warm welcome coffee, local connections, and a built-in community of fellow movers, you’ll have support every step of the way—so you can settle in and truly feel at home.

Eligible counties include Bell County, Clay County, Harlan County, Jackson County, Knott County, Leslie County, McCreary County, Owsley County, Perry County, Rockcastle County and Whitley County. 


Move to the Mountain Towns of Eastern Kentucky

$2,500 cash bonus available for partner that secures a qualifying local job in education or healthcare

Switch, Save, and Stay Connected with Discounted Phone Service and Activation from Appalachian Wireless

Experience Appalachian Hospitality at its finest with: 

Dedicated relocation support to answer all of your questions, connect you to local resources and help you feel like a local even before you arrive 

A welcome coffee with locals to help you acclimate and learn the area 

An online community of fellow movers, with regular events to help you build connections in Eastern Kentucky

Ongoing support even after you move to make sure you're not only settling in, but thriving

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.

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...

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.

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.

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 

 program—keeping you connected from day one.

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. 

Pikeville

Catalyze EKY

Relocation Assistance - $5,000 in cash to support your move 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

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