For many decades, the Red River Gorge was a hidden gem, known mainly to avid rock climbers. The secret’s out! This stunning 45-square-mile geological wonder draws outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe, and it's easy to see why. Natural Bridge State Park offers a more polished outdoor adventure, the Clifty Wilderness area of Red River Gorge lets you embrace your wild side, with over 100 natural arches, jaw-dropping cliffs, and countless rock shelters. There's endless beauty waiting to be discovered. Whether you want to kayak underground, zipline over the mountains, or seek beautiful waterfalls, there’s no better place to live and explore.

Located in east central Kentucky within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge is a world renowned outdoor recreation hub. Defined by its towering sandstone arches, deep forested ravines, and the designated Wild and Scenic Red River, the area is a magnet for rock climbers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. While the Gorge itself is protected land, the surrounding gateway communities in Powell and Wolfe counties offer a deeply rural, highly active lifestyle. Supported by a booming ecotourism economy, newly expanded fiber internet for remote workers, and legendary local gathering spots, the region offers the rare chance to live minutes away from world class wilderness.

Powell County

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:

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 Welcome Home to Eastern Kentucky 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.

: That’s right—we’ll pay you to relocate and become part of our community in Eastern Kentucky.

: Select a personalized welcome experience designed around your passions—whether you’re a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, golfer, or art lover. Options include:

: Savor the flavors of Eastern Kentucky with visits to local favorites along the Country Music Highway, including 

: Step into the region’s rich past with curated experiences such as 

, a visit to Loretta Lynn’s homeplace, Carter Caves tours, 

: Hike, bike, or ride ATVs through some of the nation’s most scenic trails, like Hidden Trail, Cascade Trail, Tanglewood Trail, Pine Mountain Trail, Lakeside Trail, Pine Ridge Trail, and Raven Rock Trail

: Experience live performances, concerts, and cultural events at iconic venues like the 

Bringing a Partner? We've got you covered!

 We'll connect your partner with local employers to enable their search for a job in Eastern Kentucky.

🧑‍⚕️🧑‍🏫 Bonus $2,500 Incentive:

 If your partner secures a qualifying job in education or healthcare, you'll receive an extra $2,500! This means more cash in your pocket to start your new life together in Eastern Kentucky.

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!

Move to Red River Gorge, Eastern Kentucky

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

$250 Tailored Eastern Kentucky Welcome Package

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

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

Far more than a restaurant, Miguel’s Pizza in Slade is the cultural heart of the Red River Gorge. Operating since the 1980s, it functions as a basecamp, gear shop, and massive campground for climbers, making its iconic yellow doors the primary gathering place for the local outdoor community.

Miguel’s Pizza: The Epicenter of Gorge Culture

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