One East Kentucky is Stronger Because of Its Resource Partners

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 supported on a state and regional level.

“We do our best to help companies ramp up operations quickly and efficiently,” says Colby Kirk, president and CEO of OEK. “By working with local partners, we can easily find the resources businesses need or connect them with someone who will help them overcome any challenges they may face.”    

Here are a few partners OEK works with to help businesses establish their operations or expand into Eastern Kentucky. Find the support you need to get your business up and running. 

FIRE Business Services

FIRE (Fueling Innovation Revitalization and Entrepreneurship) is a small business development program supported by Big Sandy Community and Economic Development. It provides data-backed insights and actionable steps for local business owners and entrepreneurs.  

FIRE has a five-county service area in Eastern Kentucky (Johnson, Floyd, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike) and is committed to making a difference one business at a time. This new program launched in late 2024 with funds from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and Kentucky Power.

Southeast Kentucky Economic Development Corporation

Southeast Kentucky Economic Development (SKED) is committed to bringing opportunities to the region. For more than 35 years, its 10-person team has supported businesses in the region and worked with local municipalities to improve residents' quality of life.

SKED is known for its business loans, which help entrepreneurs and established companies expand their operations. This supports job creation while increasing opportunities for suppliers and vendors in Eastern Kentucky. 

Shaping Our Appalachian Region

Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) has helped more than 400 startups since 2023. This nonprofit organization serves 54 counties in Eastern Kentucky and supports new businesses, existing companies, community organizations, and individuals looking to start their own businesses. More than 1,780 people have downloaded resources from SOAR to grow their businesses or explore upskilling opportunities. OEK is proud to be in its service area.

Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program

The Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP) is an essential resource for upskilling the local workforce. Not only does this organization assist job seekers who are looking for work, but it also helps people plan for long-term career development. EKCEP accommodates Kentuckians with different job needs, whether they have a disability or need to work from home while raising their kids.  

No matter where they are in their careers, EKCEP helps people enjoy a fresh start with the training they need. This also helps companies. Employers can pull from a larger talent pool with workers who have the right skills for the job.  

Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development

OEK is thrilled to be supported by Team Kentucky, which is the Cabinet for Economic Development. The state continues to promote Kentucky's assets on a national level while highlighting the value of the Eastern Region. From tourism-to-talent initiatives like My New Kentucky Home to various available grant options, Team Kentucky will ensure this state's future is bright.  

Moving to Eastern Kentucky is Easy 

Choose Eastern Kentucky for your new headquarters or expansion and let us prove how dedicated our resource partners are. We will all do our best to help with staffing, infrastructure, or anything other needs you have. Once your business opens, you will still have our support as your operations grow. Reach out to One East Kentucky today and let us find the right site and community for you.