Make your move worthwhile. Cities and states are offering incentives, cash, amenities and other benefits when you relocate.

Programs - Apply Today to Access Benefits When You Move

It’s not uncommon to meet people in Owensboro who came for a short stay and ended up settling down - a testament to the community and quality of life in this hospitable Southern town. Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities. Case in point - the recently renovated Smothers Park, located on premium riverside real estate, has been named the top playground in the world (2015) by Landscape Architect’s Network.

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.
Locals gather for live music at a myriad of venues across the city which is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and ROMP, a not-to-be-missed 3 day music festival celebrating country music of all varieties. Remote workers with families will appreciate the top performing schools and the investment the community makes in youth spaces and activities.

Owensboro

Owensboro, Kentucky

Three month membership to the Owensboro Health Healthpark

One year membership with Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

One year Chamber Young Professional Membership (For movers 21-40)

Two 3-concert flex package to Owensboro Symphony Concert Season

Two free passes for Barrel Thieving Distillery Tour

Two free admissions to Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Music

Two tickets to event of choice in 2023 at Woodward Theatre

 One free dance class from Johnson’s Dance Studio

Free 16 oz. coffee & one donut per week for one year from local coffee shop

Free banjo, fiddle, or mandolin lessons with a local instructor

Let the Music Move You in Eastern Kentucky!

No stretch of highway has produced more country stars than Kentucky’s legendary Country Music Highway—home to icons like Loretta Lynn, Naomi Judd, Dwight Yoakum, Patty Loveless, Ricky Skaggs, Chris Stapleton, and Tyler Childers. But Eastern Kentucky is more than its music, it’s welcoming neighbors, stunning mountain views, and a strong sense of community. From lively festivals to Appalachian hikes and front-porch conversations, moving here means becoming part of a legacy where tradition, creativity, and connection thrive.

To see what eligible counties are included in the Country Music Highway, check out the counties highlighted in blue 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.

Kentucky's Country Music Highway, home to stars like Loretta Lynn and Chris Stapleton, stretches from the Ohio River to Pine Mountain. This region features historic venues and offers a rich cultural experience for music lovers and visitors!

Johnson County

Move to Eastern Kentucky's Country Music Highway

$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

Call Mayfield & Graves County Home 🏡✨

Mayfield and Graves County offer the perfect mix of small-town warmth and fresh opportunities. With a friendly, tight-knit community, affordable living, and a rich tradition of Southern hospitality, it’s a place where you can truly feel at home. Stroll through the charming streets of historic downtown Mayfield, explore local shops and eateries, or enjoy the beauty of the region’s rolling farmland and outdoor spaces. From vibrant festivals and community gatherings to the welcoming spirit that greets you at every turn, Mayfield and Graves County are full of connections, character, and possibility.

Explore the Perks of Life in Mayfield & Graves County, Kentucky

Set in the heart of Western Kentucky, Mayfield and Graves County combine small-town warmth with a strong spirit of progress. Residents enjoy welcoming neighborhoods, an affordable cost of living, and a deep sense of community connection. From the charm of historic downtown Mayfield to the creative energy of the Purchase Players Theater and the vibrant performances at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center, there’s always something to experience. Add in local festivals, high school sporting traditions, and the area’s rich agricultural heritage, and you’ll quickly see why this community feels like home. To make your move even smoother, we’ve assembled a collection of benefits to help you settle in, meet your neighbors, and start thriving from day one:

 Receive $5,000 in direct financial support to help cover your moving expenses, home setup, or anything else you need to make Mayfield and Graves County feel like home.

👧 50% Off Y’s Guys After School Childcare:

 Families can enjoy half-off rates for the Y’s Guys program, providing safe, fun, and engaging after-school care for children.

🥚 Monthly Gift of a Dozen Locally Sourced Eggs:

 Each month, you’ll receive a dozen fresh, locally sourced eggs from area farms, bringing a taste of Kentucky’s agricultural tradition right to your table.

🍽️ Lunch with the Mayor of Mayfield: 

Meet the Mayor for a personal lunch to discuss community life, ask questions, and learn more about your new hometown.

🚗 Community Tour and Lunch with Local Leadership:

 Enjoy a guided tour of Mayfield and Graves County, followed by lunch with community leaders who can connect you with local resources and opportunities.

🎭 Tickets to the Purchase Players Performing Arts Theater: 

Experience live local theater with complimentary tickets to the Purchase Players, showcasing regional talent and creative performances.

🏈 Family Pass for All Graves County High School Home Sporting Events:

 Cheer on the Graves County Eagles with a family pass that gives you entry to every home sporting event for the year.

🎨 Family Pass to the Fine Arts Season Events at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center:

 Enjoy a season of fine arts performances with a family pass to concerts, plays, and special events.

🏟️ Family Pass for All Mayfield High School Home Sporting Events:

 Support the Mayfield Cardinals with a family pass to all home games throughout the school year.

 Stay active and connected with a full YMCA membership, offering access to fitness facilities, classes, and family-friendly activities.

🤝 Membership to the Mayfield Graves County Young Professionals Group: 

Network and socialize with other young professionals through events, volunteer opportunities, and community projects

🌍 Mayfield Graves County Rotary Club Membership: 

Join a global network of community-minded individuals with a membership to the local Rotary Club, dedicated to service and positive change.

🎁 Mayfield Graves County Welcome Basket:

 Receive a curated basket filled with local products, gifts, and helpful information to help you get acquainted with your new home.

Learn more about the community down below! 

Mayfield and Graves County offers an incredible mix of family-friendly activities, community engagement, and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Your new chapter starts here – and we’re excited to welcome you! 

Graves County

Move to Mayfield and Graves County 

Monthly gift of a dozen locally sourced eggs

Community Tour and Lunch with Local Leadership

Tickets to the Purchase Players Performing Arts Theater

Family Pass for all Graves County High School home sporting events for the year

Family Pass to the fine arts season events at the Independence Bank Performing Arts Center

Family Pass for all Mayfield High School home sporting events for the year

Membership to the Mayfield Graves County Young Professionals group

Mayfield Graves County Rotary Club Membership

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:

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. 


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

Move to the Mountain Towns of Eastern Kentucky

Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, with Pikeville you get the stunning mountain backdrop without the isolation. Pikeville is a regional hub with a university and medical center, meaning you find plenty of community and fiber internet, but your mortgage is a fraction of what you pay now. 

Choosing a new place to call home is a big step, and in Pikeville, you’re not just relocating—you’re joining a community steeped in tradition, creativity, and Appalachian pride. Locals have assembled the below programming to help make your transition seamless and inspiring by offering unique incentives designed to help you settle in, explore the culture, and experience everything this region has to offer.

We're sure you'll have questions about neighborhoods, outdoor activities, schools and more - go ahead and apply and you'll be hearing from local program manager, Latasha right away!

Pikeville is part of a broader, regional relocation program that covers over 30 counties in Eastern Kentucky. In addition to Pikeville, other eligible counties include Bath, Bell, Boyd, Breathitt, Carter, Clay, Elliott, Estill, Floyd, Greenup, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lewis, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Rowan, Wayne, Whitley, and Wolfe. 

Curious to learn more? Check out our community pages below!

Sitting in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky offers remote workers the tight-knit communities, fast internet, and access to the outdoors that they crave. Popular hobbies for locals include kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.

Pikeville

Move to Pikeville

Welcome to Paducah. We're so glad you're here!

Wondering if Paducah is for you? Read more below about why we love it here. 

Paducah is one of a small number of UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States, reflecting its long-standing role in arts and craft traditions. The city’s riverfront floodwall murals, galleries, museums, and performing arts venues anchor a strong cultural presence. Residents can engage with local arts through exhibitions, theater, music, and hands-on workshops offered throughout the community.

Paducah sits along I-24 between Nashville and St. Louis, providing convenient access to major regional destinations. The city’s location makes it an easy base for travel throughout the Midwest and South. Barkley Regional Airport offers daily jet service to Charlotte, connecting residents to a broader national and international network.

Paducah offers a relatively low cost of living with a range of housing options across more than 50 neighborhoods. Historic homes, established residential areas, and access to high-speed internet make the city practical for families, professionals, and remote workers.

The city serves as a regional center for education and employment across western Kentucky and surrounding states. Public schools, the Paducah Innovation Hub, and higher education institutions—including West Kentucky Community and Technical College and Murray State University’s Paducah campus—provide academic and workforce pathways. Major healthcare facilities and regional employers also support a broad local economy.

Paducah hosts numerous festivals, parades, and cultural events throughout the year. Its historic downtown includes museums, restaurants, retail shops, and performance venues such as Market House Theatre, the Carson Center, and Maiden Alley Cinema. These spaces support an active calendar of performances, film screenings, and community gatherings.

City parks and trails support walking, biking, swimming, and skating, while nearby waterways offer boating and fishing. Within a short drive, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and Shawnee National Forest provide additional opportunities for hiking, camping, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

On top of that, we've assembled local perks to help you explore, connect, and thrive from day one:

 gives newcomers a financial boost to start their life in Paducah, whether for exploring the city, investing in hobbies, or enjoying local experiences.

1-year membership to Sprocket coworking space

 offers a professional environment to work, connect with others, and build a network, making it easier to feel at home in the city’s professional community.

 opens the door to social events, local projects, and mentorship, helping newcomers quickly integrate into Paducah’s social and professional life.

Paducah is great but don’t just take our word for it - hear from one of our own movers...

A designated UNESCO Creative City, Paducah is a destination for those who crave rich, authentic cultural experiences. Find your inspiration when you make your move to Paducah.

Paducah

Move to Paducah

Up to $5,000 award upon establishing residency in Paducah

1 Year Membership to Sprocket Coworking Space (first 6 months free, next 6 months 50% off)

1 Year Membership to the Paducah Young Professionals

Sitting in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky offers remote workers the tight-knit communities, fast internet, and access to the outdoors that they crave.

Elkhorn Park, Jenny Wiley State Resort, and Paintsville Lake Wildlife Area all offer opportunities for after-work or weekend escapes. Popular hobbies for locals include kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.

Paintsville

Move to Johnson County

Teach Kentucky: Launching Education Careers in Louisville
Teach Kentucky is a nonprofit organization that recruits ambitious recent college graduates from across the country (even those without an education background) to launch their teaching careers in Louisville’s public schools. What began with just two teacher candidates has grown into an annual cohort of 40–45 aspiring educators who choose Louisville as the place to begin their journey.

The program is designed not only to bring new talent into the classroom, but also to ensure they succeed and stay. Teach Kentucky understands the challenges that come with being a new teacher, especially in public education. That’s why they provide a robust support network, connecting participants with like-minded peers, experienced mentors, and a welcoming local community.

Teachers who join Teach Kentucky don’t just come for a job — they find a place to grow, lead, and thrive both professionally and personally. With a proven track record of retention and success, Teach Kentucky continues to be a catalyst for change in education and in the lives of the teachers it supports.

If you are not yet certified: 
You will earn certification through a Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program. You will apply for admission to an MAT program at the University of Louisville or Spalding University, or Asbury University, and apply for a teaching job in Jefferson County Public Schools.

If you are certified:
You will transfer your certification to Kentucky and plan to move to town by July 1, and apply for a teaching job in Jefferson County Public Schools.

Louisville

Teach Kentucky: Launching Education Careers in Louisville

Teach Kentucky is a nonprofit organization that recruits ambitious recent college graduates from across the country to launch their teaching careers in Louisville’s public schools. What began with just two teacher candidates has grown into an annual cohort of 40–45 aspiring educators who choose Louisville as the place to begin their journey.

The program is designed not only to bring new talent into the classroom, but also to ensure they succeed and stay. Teach Kentucky understands the challenges that come with being a new teacher, especially in public education. That’s why they provide a robust support network, connecting participants with like-minded peers, experienced mentors, and a welcoming local community.

Teachers who join Teach Kentucky don’t just come for a job — they find a place to grow, lead, and thrive both professionally and personally. With a proven track record of retention and success, Teach Kentucky continues to be a catalyst for change in education and in the lives of the teachers it supports.

Teach Kentucky

Up to $4,000 Relocation Grant from the School District

$14,600 AmeriCorps Grant toward Master’s Degree

Social events, peer networks, and guidance on settling into Louisville

Discover the Spirit of Prestonsburg, KY 🎶🌄

Tucked in the heart of Kentucky’s Appalachian region, Prestonsburg blends natural beauty, artistic soul, and a warm, tight-knit community. Known as the “Star City of Eastern Kentucky,” this town offers something for everyone—from hiking and kayaking in the breathtaking hills to catching live music at the Mountain Arts Center. Stroll through the charming downtown, explore local boutiques and eateries, or join in on community festivals that celebrate the area's heritage and heart. Whether you're drawn to outdoor adventure, creative culture, or genuine connection, you’ll feel right at home in Prestonsburg.

Locals have assembled a relocation package to help you make your home in Prestonsburg, KY!

Start your next chapter with a warm, personalized welcome that will help you explore your new community.

Prestonsburg

Move to Prestonsburg

Eastern Kentucky is home to some of the most welcoming and vibrant college towns, where education, culture, and community come together in a unique blend. Whether you’re drawn to the spirited atmosphere of the University of Pikeville, the dynamic energy of Morehead State University, or the enriching environment of Union Commonwealth University, these towns offer a lifestyle that’s both engaging and fulfilling. 

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

: Where Tradition Meets Innovation In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the University of Pikeville fosters a close-knit community that’s rich in tradition and forward-thinking. The town of Pikeville is more than just a home to students—it’s a place where residents and students alike enjoy a strong sense of belonging. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, Pikeville offers an enriching lifestyle, from cultural events to outdoor adventures in the surrounding mountains. 


: A Hub of Culture and Adventure Morehead is a town where academia and natural beauty converge. Home to Morehead State University, this town is a hub of creativity, culture, and adventure. The university’s influence is felt throughout the town, from art galleries and live performances to community events that bring everyone together. Living in Morehead means having access to the stunning Daniel Boone National Forest, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the great outdoors. 


: A Community-Driven Experience Union Commonwealth University is at the heart of a town where community spirit is the cornerstone of daily life. The town is characterized by its warm, welcoming residents and a deep commitment to education and innovation. Here, you’ll find a perfect balance between academic pursuits and recreational activities, with beautiful parks, local eateries, and a variety of cultural experiences that make it an ideal place to live, work, and study.

Eastern Kentucky's college towns blend education, culture, and community. The University of Pikeville offers tradition and innovation, Morehead State University combines culture with outdoor adventures, and Union Commonwealth University thrives on strong community spirit.

Rowan County

Move to the University Towns of Eastern Kentucky

With over 30 counties included in the eligible relocation area, you're bound to find one that feels like home! To help your decision making process, we've broken this big region down into 5 categories:

We're sure you'll have questions about neighborhoods, outdoor activities, schools and more and we're here to help. Go ahead and apply and you'll be hearing from Latasha right away!

Locals have assembled this relocation program to help you make your home in Eastern Kentucky:

Curious to learn more about Eastern Kentucky? Check out our community page below!

Move to Eastern Kentucky

Whitesburg

Move to Whitesburg

Frankfort, the capital of Kentucky, offers a wide away of amenities for remote workers lookers looking for the best of what Kentucky has to offer.  Frankfort has curated a program to ensure each new remote worker gets welcomed and immersed with the locals. Read more about each part of the program:

Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson and First Lady Natalie welcome movers to Mingle with the Mayor. At this casual and fun evening you will meet other movers new to Frankfort, sample Kentucky cuisine, and learn the traditions of the Bluegrass state. You'll enjoy lively conversation about your new home as you mingle and mix at the Mayor and First Lady's historic downtown home. The date will be set once all movers have settled in Frankfort.

Progressive Dinner with Downtown Frankfort Residents

Make New Friends at a Downtown Frankfort Progressive Dinner hosted by a group of neighbors in the historic district. Join other new movers to Kentucky's Capital City and enjoy a casual family meal as you progress from house to house. This experience will include hors d'oeuvres, salad, main course, and dessert each taking place at a different walkable location. Get to know your new neighbors and take a leisurely stroll through town. Date to be determined when all movers have settled in Frankfort.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour with Freddie Johnson

Tour the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery with Bourbon Hall of Famer Freddie Johnson, the 3rd generation of his family to work at the distillery! End your tour with a Buffalo Trace Distillery gift card that can be used to snag a bottle of the Distillery’s coveted bourbon.

Tour Frankfort with a local. Patty Peavler, retired banker, author, and historian, will lead you on a journey through Frankfort history. Your experience begins at the Capital City Museum on Ann Street as a hub, and you'll spoke out on the Frankfort Trolley to visit some of our most historic sites including the Corner in Celebrities where 3 Presidents came for breakfast, Fort Hill which Sanford Goin and volunteer troops in the Civil War held for the Union ensuring Kentucky remained in the United States, and the Frankfort Cemetery where Daniel Boone is buried. En route you'll discover the home where Bibb Lettuce was invented and the home of the man who coined the phrase, "Dog is man's best friend."

A Frankfort Welcome Basket will Greet Movers on Move In Day. This $300 Value is Filled with Gift Cards to Local Favorites such as Sig Luscher Brewery, Bourbon on Main Bar and Restaurant, and Locals Food Hub which features hand tossed pizzas and Kentucky Proud Products. Tickets to the Summer Movie Series at the historic Grand Theatre are included.

*The cash is paid in two installments. One installment after the move date and the second installment upon completion of the 12th month of residence. 

It's for real, and MakeMyMove helps you find the right community for you, connect with locals there, and get support to make your move a piece of cake.

Frankfort, the capital of Kentucky, is a picturesque small city located in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass Region. Whether you're seeking a change of pace or simply a new home, Frankfort is a great option for remote workers looking for an urban lifestyle in a smaller city setting.



Frankfort

Move to Frankfort

$50 Buffalo Trace Distillery gift card to snag a bottle of the Distillery’s coveted bourbon

Round of Golf at Juniper Hill Golf Course

Conveniently located on the Ohio River, and commonly referred to as the “Gateway to the South,” Louisville combines a rich culture with big-city perks. Louisville proudly hosts multiple world class events each year, including the Kentucky Derby and Thunder Over Louisville, the largest annual fireworks display in the U.S. Other notable events include the Forecastle Festival, which draws 35,000 music fans to Louisville Waterfront Park, as well as the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in nearby Bardstown.

Downtown’s West Main District, or “Museum Row,” features the Frazier History Museum, the Kentucky Science Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, and the Muhammad Ali Center. 

When it comes to dining and nightlife, downtown’s Fourth Street never disappoints, offering a diverse mix of restaurants and entertainment venues, such as Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, Hard Rock Cafe, and Fourth Street Live!, a 350,000-square-foot entertainment and retail complex. For those who prefer coworking spaces, Louisville provides more than 10 options, including the popular Launch Louisville and 31e. 

Located only a couple of miles from downtown, Muhammad Ali International Airport offers direct flights to dozens of fun destinations including Miami, Denver, Los Angeles, New Orleans, and more.

Louisville, Kentucky

If you love life on the water, you will fall hook, line, and sinker for this region.

Lake Cumberland is one the largest and most visited lakes in the eastern United States, encompassing six counties in Kentucky and spanning 65,000-plus acres of lush nature. In the heart of the Kentucky Wildlands, the region is also home to Laurel River Lake and Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.

To see what eligible counties are included in Eastern Kentucky's Lake Country, check out the counties highlighted in green below:

Nestled in the Kentucky Wildlands, this area features Laurel River Lake, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, and Lake Cumberland. With its beautiful waters and lively communities, this region is sure to captivate you. 

Pulaski County

Move to Eastern Kentucky's Lake Country

Once a hidden gem for climbers, the Red River Gorge is now a world-class destination for outdoor adventure—and a backdrop for everyday life in Eastern Kentucky. Here, natural wonders like soaring cliffs, winding trails, and waterfalls are paired with welcoming communities where neighbors feel like family. Whether you’re kayaking through underground rivers, hiking at Natural Bridge State Park, or gathering at local festivals, moving to Eastern Kentucky means joining a place where adventure, culture, and community come together to create a home like no other.

To see what eligible counties are included in the Red River Gorge region, check out the counties highlighted in purple below:

The Red River Gorge, once a hidden gem for climbers, is now a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 45 square miles, it offers natural arches, cliffs, and rock shelters. You can enjoy activities like kayaking, ziplining, and exploring waterfalls, making it a prime spot for adventure!

Powell County

Move to Red River Gorge, Eastern Kentucky

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. 

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

Sitting in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains, Eastern Kentucky offers remote workers the tight-knit communities, fast internet, and access to the outdoors that they crave.

Elkhorn Park, Jenny Wiley State Resort, and Paintsville Lake Wildlife Area all offer opportunities for after-work or weekend escapes. Popular hobbies for locals include kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.

By using federal dollars and private funds, Eastern Kentucky is leading the way with Eastern Kentucky Broadband Projects to ensure that fast internet access is available to all residents of Eastern Kentucky. Perfect for remote employees who need to stay connected.

Finally, the communities of Prestonsburg, Pikeville, Whitesburg, and Hazard offer different towns for you to experience Eastern Kentucky. The shared values of faith, grit, empathy, and selflessness embody the spirit of Appalachia and are perfect for remote workers and their families looking for their next home.


Come check out four beautiful communities in Eastern Kentucky - Pikeville, Hazard, Prestonsburg, and Whitesburg - to offer you an incentive package tailored to your interests and hobbies.

*Our welcome package options include a range of activities and events that are based on your specific interests. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, golfer, or art lover, we have something for everyone. We'll work with you to customize your experience and ensure that you have access to the activities and events that you're most passionate about.

Plenty of restaurant and distillery options to experience the unique flavors of Eastern Kentucky. Immerse yourself in our rich history with tailored tours that showcase the stories and traditions of our region. For nature lovers, we offer some of the country's best hiking, biking, and ATV trails.

And if you're an art or music lover, we have an exciting lineup of events and shows that will keep you entertained all year round. Join us and find what package we can put together for you!

Hazard

Move to Hazard

Verify your application and eligibility by uploading a 

. Learn more about the community by connecting with a community champion.

You're waiting for a formal offer from the community. In the meantime, 

You have been selected to formally join the program! Review your offer details and 

. Keep us posted on your progress. And if you need a hand, we’re here to connect you with helpful resources.

 or connect with the program owner about receiving your program benefits.

18 Programs

New Program Updates