One East Kentucky Receives Multiple Awards from the Kentucky Association for Economic Development

The Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED) recognized the efforts of One East Kentucky and its leadership during its annual awards ceremony. Colby Kirk, President and CEO of One East Kentucky, was named 2024 Young Professional of the Year, while the organization as a whole received the Leadership in Technology for Economic Development Award.

“I am honored to be recognized for my efforts and thrilled our organization was recognized for the positive change it is making in the region,” says Kirk. “We couldn’t accomplish half of what we do without support from our investors and the communities that have bought into our vision and work alongside us every step of the way.”

Learn more about Kirk and his team's great work, which makes One East Kentucky a competitive destination for economic investment.

Kirk is a Native of Martin County Who Invests in His Home State

The KAED Young Professional of the Year award is designed to recognize an emerging leader under 40 who has demonstrated outstanding achievements in economic development and has made a positive impact on their organization, community, or region. Kirk, who was born in Martin County, Kentucky, exemplifies this award through his continued investment in his home state, particularly in his home region of Eastern Kentucky.

In a press release announcing the award, KAED says Kirk, “demonstrated passion for creating local conditions that stimulate job growth, attract investment, and foster opportunities for economic development.” It adds that Kirk has spent the past two years revitalizing nine coal-field counties by preparing and marketing industrial sites, fostering downtown revitalization, supporting small businesses, and advancing workforce development. His efforts are designed to spur long-term prosperity in the region. 

“I see beauty and opportunity everywhere I go in Eastern Kentucky,” says Kirk. “This award highlights how other people are paying attention to us and recognizing our value proposition.” 

OEK Markets the Region Through Technology Investment

Under Kirk, One East Kentucky’s efforts have been twofold: building up the existing resources and communities in Eastern Kentucky (through workforce development and downtown revitalization) while attracting new investment to the region. By making Eastern Kentucky more attractive to investors, it increases the chances of winning them over. However, OEK has also invested heavily in tech-based tools to reach site selectors and business leaders who might take an interest in the region.  

“We aren’t going to sit around and hope people discover us,” says Kirk. “OEK is actively marketing the region to stakeholders and getting in front of decision-makers. This is how we are going to grow in the coming years.”

KAED recognized OEK’s buy-in to new technologies with the Leadership in Technology for Economic Development Award for 2024. One East Kentucky integrated GISWebtech, software that showcases available sites and buildings while also highlighting their competitive advantages. See this tool in action and explore various industrial sites in Eastern Kentucky. 

OEK Ended the Year Strong and Will Enter 2025 Even Stronger

The KAED awards recognize the hard work of Kirk and his team over the past few years. In addition to highlighting available sites and traveling across the country, OEK has worked to build up local businesses and support entrepreneurs. Economic development has several moving pieces, and OEK is balancing each element just fine.

Join One East Kentucky as the staff, investors, and board of directors look to the future. Become an investor today and show your support directly. We can accomplish much more with you by our side.