Catalyze Eastern Kentucky Founder-First Relocation Program
$5,000
About the Program
Access up to $15K in Relocation Assistance & Business Support in Eastern Kentucky
Building a company takes more than grit. It takes community, mentorship, and a place that believes in what you’re building.
Catalyze Eastern Kentucky is a founder-first relocation program that helps entrepreneurs grow their startups in one of the most promising innovation regions in the country. Powered by EKY Remote, SOAR Innovation, Make My Move, and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, this program helps you move to Eastern Kentucky, plug into a thriving network, and gain the support, tools, and funding connections you need to scale.
If you’re a tech founder or entrepreneur ready to take your company (and your quality of life) to the next level, Catalyze EKY is where you belong.
Founder Package
Accepted founders receive more than just relocation support. They gain a full ecosystem of resources designed to help them succeed. Plus a total incentive value of $15,150.
Relocation Assistance
A $5,000 cash incentive, a $150 welcome package, and 1:1 relocation support to help you settle into life in Eastern Kentucky.
Connectivity Perks
Complimentary phone service and activation so you’re connected from day one.
Startup Acceleration Resources
Exclusive access to accelerator programs, investors, and funders including SOAR Innovation’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence and the Appalachian Innovation Investment Fund.
Mentorship and Coaching
Hands-on guidance from the SOAR Innovation team and seasoned founders who know how to grow and scale in real-world conditions.
Networking and Community
Invitations to ecosystem events, regional founders gatherings, and peer mentorship within the Eastern Kentucky startup network.
Regional Integration
Connections to local leaders, innovators, and partners who are invested in your long-term success.
Eligibility:
Catalyze Eastern Kentucky is designed for founders who are ready to grow their startups in a place that’s invested in their success. If you’re ready to make the move, here’s what it takes to qualify:
- Live outside the state of Kentucky
- Be a U.S. citizen eligible to work in the country
- Be 18 or older
- Be a part of the leadership team of a startup, business, or company preparing to launch
- Relocate to one of the 29 eligible Eastern Kentucky counties
- Register your business headquarters in that county within 6 months of relocation
Explore Eastern Kentucky Communities
You've learned about the program. Now explore Arizona communities to see what it's like to live and work in the places where your business could grow.
Explore:
- LookyLOO Reviews of Eastern Kentucky Cities
- Neighborhood Guides
- Local Reviews
- Schools & Quality of Life
- Save Communities to Your Project Book