Eastern Kentucky is home to a dedicated network of college towns serving as regional hubs for innovation, healthcare, and the arts. Communities like Morehead, Richmond, Berea, and Pikeville seamlessly blend historic brick campuses with rugged mountain landscapes. These towns pulse with the energy of student populations and feature highly walkable downtowns filled with local coffee roasters, independent bookshops, and collegiate athletics. Residents enjoy an intellectually stimulating environment paired directly with world class outdoor recreation.

Rowan County

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

$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

EKU anchors the city of Richmond in Madison County. It is a comprehensive public university with nationally recognized programs in criminal justice, nursing, and aviation. The massive campus acts as a city within a city, featuring modern research facilities, a bustling student center, and a beautiful ravine that serves as a central gathering space.

Aerial view of a university campus, featuring a steeple, lush greenery, and a blend of modern and traditional buildings.

The image displays a picturesque aerial view of a university campus. In the foreground, a stately building with a prominent steeple stands out, surrounded by well-maintained greenery and walkways. The overall landscape features a mix of modern and traditional architecture, suggesting a blend of history and progress. 

The bright, clear blue sky casts a warm light on the scene, enhancing the vibrant colors of the trees and buildings. This creates an inviting atmosphere, evoking feelings of optimism and tranquility. The organized layout of the campus, along with the lush greenery, suggests a nurturing and inspiring environment, likely stirring emotions of hopefulness and contemplation, making it a fitting backdrop for learning and growth.

A sunny outdoor gathering in front of a university, featuring engaged people, a statue, and a joyful atmosphere.

The image depicts a group of people gathered in an outdoor space in front of a large brick building, which appears to be a university or institutional setting. A statue is visible on the left side of the image, adding an artistic touch to the scene. The sky is bright with fluffy clouds, indicating a sunny day.

The individuals in the photo are engaged in conversation or attentive to someone speaking, suggesting a social or educational activity. The clothing choices and expressions of the people indicate a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere, where camaraderie and curiosity are likely present.

### Emotions and Moods Invoked:
- **Joyful and Energetic**: The bright sunlight and casual interactions suggest happiness.
- **Curiosity and Engagement**: The group appears to be learning or exploring, invoking feelings of interest.
- **Community and Togetherness**: The gathering fosters a sense of connection among the individuals present.

Overall, the scene conveys a positive and inviting environment, typical of an academic or social gathering.

Football players in team jerseys celebrate a victory, showcasing joy, camaraderie, and high energy in dynamic poses.

The image depicts a group of football players in team jerseys, celebrating a successful play or achievement. The players are in dynamic poses, conveying energy and excitement. One player appears to be lifting another's helmet in a gesture of victory, while others are cheering and showing support.

The emotions and moods invoked by this photo include:

- **Joy and Excitement**: The celebration suggests a significant moment, likely after scoring or winning, creating a sense of euphoria.
- **Camaraderie**: The players are close together, emphasizing teamwork and the bonds created through shared experiences in sports.
- **Victory**: The gestures and expressions reflect a feeling of accomplishment and pride in their effort and success.
- **Energy**: The dynamic movement and enthusiastic expressions contribute to an overall feeling of high energy and adrenaline.

Overall, the image captures the spirit of sportsmanship and the thrill of teamwork in athletics.

Eastern Kentucky University

Located in Rowan County, Morehead State University is a major public institution known for its highly specialized space science programs. The campus features a 21 meter space tracking antenna and frequently partners with NASA on satellite missions. The university brings a strong influx of engineering, education, and arts professionals to the local community.

Vibrant campus view with green hills, blue sky, and modern buildings, evoking tranquility and harmony with nature.

The image presents a panoramic view of a vibrant campus surrounded by lush green hills under a bright blue sky adorned with fluffy white clouds. The landscape features a mix of contemporary buildings and trees, with well-maintained pathways connecting various structures.

The scene invokes feelings of tranquility and vitality, suggesting a sense of peace and harmony with nature. The bright colors and clear weather promote a mood of positivity and optimism, while the expansive view creates a sense of openness and possibility. Overall, the imagery feels inviting and energizing, likely appealing to those who appreciate nature and academic settings.

A person kayaks on calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and hills, evoking tranquility and a connection with nature.

The image depicts a serene water landscape with a person kayaking in the foreground, and lush greenery and rolling hills in the background. The water is calm, reflecting the clear blue sky and surrounding scenery, which contributes to a peaceful atmosphere. 

The scene evokes feelings of tranquility, relaxation, and perhaps a sense of adventure. The individual's solitary kayak journey suggests exploration and a connection with nature. Overall, the mood is uplifting and calming, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.

A blue player runs with the ball, dodging a red defender amid an excited crowd, capturing the thrill of football.

The image captures a moment from a football game where a player in blue is running with the ball, evading a defender in red. The background features a cheering crowd, suggesting a lively and energetic atmosphere.  

The player with the ball appears focused and determined, while the defender is likely exerting effort to make a tackle. The audience’s reaction indicates excitement and anticipation, contributing to a sense of tension and excitement typical of competitive sports.

Overall, the photo evokes feelings of adrenaline, determination, and camaraderie, as it showcases the intensity and passion inherent in sporting events. The bright colors and dynamic action suggest a festive, spirited mood.

Morehead State University

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