Ready to turn your big idea into a business that makes a real impact right here in Eastern Kentucky?
The Social Enterprise Accelerator helps local entrepreneurs launch or grow businesses that tackle real community challenges like childcare, housing, transportation, healthcare, or workforce issues.
If you live in Eastern Kentucky, this free program offers:
- Weekly virtual workshops to guide your business journey
- In-person events to connect with mentors and peers
- A Demo Day to showcase your idea and gain support
Key dates:
- Applications Due: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Program Timeline: September – December 2025
Not quite ready for the full cohort or just want to explore an idea? You can request one-on-one coaching and technical assistance anytime, year-round. Just fill out the form to get connected with one of our team members.
If building a business that makes a difference sounds like your dream job, we’d love to help you get there.
What is the Social Enterprise Accelerator?
The Social Enterprise Accelerator is a hybrid program for people in Eastern Kentucky who want to use business as a tool for good. Whether you’re for-profit or nonprofit, if your goal is to solve a problem in your community like improving childcare, creating jobs, or expanding access to healthcare, you’re already thinking like a social entrepreneur. The Social Enterprise Accelerator is here to help you turn that mission into action through hands-on support, a strong network, and the space to grow your idea or business with purpose.
What to expect
- Weekly virtual workshops and a flexible time commitment of 2–3 hours per week
- In-person events and a Demo Day to connect, share your progress, and celebrate with your cohort
- One-on-one coaching and technical assistance throughout the year
- Connections to mentors, service providers, and expert partners
- Free coworking space at multiple locations throughout Eastern Kentucky
Who this program is for
- Anyone in Eastern Kentucky with a new idea, a growing business, or a nonprofit that aims to make a difference
- Entrepreneurs or teams focused on solving a community challenge
- Business owners who want to use their business as a force for good
- Individuals exploring business ownership as a career path
- Anyone with the motivation to learn and build something meaningful (a registered business is not required!)
Meet the Social Enterprise Accelerator Team
Join Our Online Community
Looking for immediate resources, support, or a place to connect with other entrepreneurs?
Join our free online community to access tools, events, discussions, and expert advice. You’ll stay connected with the Social Enterprise Accelerator team, get the latest updates, and learn alongside others building businesses in Eastern Kentucky.
Are you an Eastern Kentucky business owner, industry expert, or community leader?
Join our mentor network and help the next wave of Eastern Kentucky entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone in Eastern Kentucky who wants to use business to help their community. All stages welcome, from an early idea to established business.
You do not need a business plan or experience. We help you every step of the way.
No. Our program is free, thanks to support from our partners.
A commitment to join weekly virtual workshops for 2 to 3 hours each week, and to attend a few strategic in-person networking events during the program, each about a half day. One-on-one coaching is always flexible to your schedule.
Yes. You can start one-on-one coaching and technical assistance at any time, even if you are not in the cohort.
You get coaching, workshops, technical assistance, access to mentors, help navigating funding and partnerships, and practical tools to move your business forward.
At the end of the cohort, you will have a chance to present your business, connect with leaders, and celebrate your progress.
We work closely with Appalachian Early Childhood Network, Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, Center on Rural Innovation, and many others who provide mentorship, and technical help.
We do not provide direct funding or grants through the SEA program. We do our best to help you explore funding opportunities and connect with resources, investors, or partners who may be able to support your business, but funding is not guaranteed.
You stay part of our network for ongoing support, alumni opportunities, and referrals.