News and Media from Eastern Kentucky
News Articles
The local metal industry continues to grow thanks to the Metals Innovation Initiative (MI2) and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. As of 2025, there are more than 250 metals-related businesses in the state that employ 36,000 people. As more metal companies move here, they are drawn to Eastern Kentucky because of...
Businesses planning to expand into Eastern Kentucky can enjoy working with two high-quality utility partners who will ensure they have all the resources they need. Both Columbia Gas of Kentucky and Kentucky Power have representatives who sit on the board of One East Kentucky and are actively involved in growing...
Business attraction is one of the key goals of One East Kentucky. The region has a strong workforce and ample natural resources in a key location in the United States – it just needs someone to promote this hidden gem. Colby Kirk, President and CEO of One East Kentucky, attended...
One East Kentucky (OEK) supports nine counties and is based on the idea that economic development doesn’t stop at specific county lines. A new business or education resource in one county can elevate the entire region. OEK works with countless local economic development partners throughout the year but is also...
The nine-county One East Kentucky region is home to 7,500 available workers and their families. Companies moving to the region can take advantage of a skilled workforce ready to go to work, and they can also rest assured knowing that the workforce of tomorrow can attend local universities and participate...
The following is a reflection from Colby Kirk, President & CEO of One East Kentucky, on the potential impact of tariffs in the region. As a lifelong resident of Eastern Kentucky and a leader in economic development, he has a clear understanding of how federal tariffs could be good and...
2025 Kicks Off the ‘New Kentucky Home’ Initiative to Support Tourism and Economic Development
Jan 13 2025Residents of Eastern Kentucky can expect an uptick in tourists this year through a new campaign developed by the Cabinet for Economic Development and Governor Andy Beshear. The initiative, “My New Kentucky Home,” pairs tourism investment with long-term economic development strategies. When people visit Kentucky, they can fall in love...