Catalyze EKY
Total Incentive
$15,150
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.
“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
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, a guaranteed spot in the nearest accelerator cohort with a monetary award upon completion, and eligibility for a $25,000 SAFE note through Keyhorse Capital. Founders will also receive a complimentary SOAR Summit ticket and exhibitor booth—a prime opportunity to connect with innovators across the region—along with a welcome package valued at $150 to help them settle in and get started.
🚀 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 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.
Eligible Places
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 part of the core leadership team of the startup, CEO preferred.
The applicant's startup venture must be an established, venture backable company.
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.
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
Other Details
Program Categories
How It Works
This community is participating in the MakeMyMove on-platform application process. Apply in a few minutes. You’ll receive a response to your application, and will have access to a team to help along the way.
1. Apply
Fill out our fast application form to share your information and why you’re interested in making a move.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Qualifying applicants will receive an introduction to the local sponsors of the program who will answer your questions, and help you decide if the community is the right fit.
3. Confirm Eligibility
Once you’ve been selected, we’ll confirm your eligibility for the program and facilitate a formal offer from the community.
4. Accept and Make Your Move
Accept your offer to reserve your spot in the program, and let us know when you arrive to receive the incentive.