Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR)

SOAR’s vision for Eastern Kentucky’s future just gained significant momentum with $40 million from the U.S. Economic Development Administration Recompete Pilot Program. This funding is far more than just a financial boost; it’s the foundation for advanced career paths in healthcare, tech, and energy that will keep Eastern Kentuckians at the forefront of opportunity. Learn more about the programs and partnerships powering this exciting phase of growth: https://lnkd.in/ep6ksj4S

Our Foundational Guide to Energy Opportunities is now available to help local leaders, businesses, and communities find success in renewable energy resources. With everything in one place, this guide is your essential tool for driving economic growth and creating jobs in Eastern Kentucky. Read the blog, download the guide, and take the first step toward a sustainable future for your community! https://lnkd.in/eQTu3iyJ #EasternKY #EnergyOpportunities #CommunityImpact

SOAR is honored to be featured in the upcoming Redevelopment Trailblazers Webinar. Join us this Friday, November 1st at 12:00 PM as we share our journey in driving population growth, reducing employment barriers, and building a resilient future for Eastern Kentucky. This exciting webinar will feature insights from SOAR’s own Colby Hall and Will Warren, CEcD, EDP, highlighting our winning proposal that secured one of only ten BBB Challenge Grants out of 600 applicants! Be part of the conversation on how SOAR is working to revitalize coal-impacted communities with a forward-looking vision for Eastern Kentucky. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn more! 🔗 Register here: https://lnkd.in/gzgGbqnP

The 2024 SOAR Summit achieved remarkable success, gathering over 1,200 attendees, 100 exhibitors, 80+ speakers, and 32 dynamic sessions in Pikeville, KY. The event showcased the drive and potential of Eastern Kentucky. Special thanks to our presenting partners, Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, whose support was essential in making this gathering possible. Watch the full recap to revisit the highlights and see how we’re working together to uplift our region. Looking forward to SOAR Summit 2025! 👉 Watch the video - https://lnkd.in/ghH2bS7c #SOARSummit2024 #EasternKentucky #CommunityImpact

BREAKING NEWS: Congressman Hal Rogers and Governor Andy Beshear join the U.S. Economic Development Administration to announce approximately $40 million #Recompete Grant at today's 2024 SOAR Summit. This grant represents one of the largest grants awarded to a non-profit to address workforce opportunities in the history of #EKY. Learn more ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://lnkd.in/gxXTNgZy

Today is your LAST CHANCE to register for the 2024 SOAR Summit! Don’t miss out on Appalachia’s premier event, happening October 16-18 in #Pikeville. Join us for an unforgettable experience featuring: - 80+ speakers - 30+ sessions - 7 focused tracks - 100+ exhibits - Federal Resource Fair with more than a dozen federal agencies - Country Music Highway Tribute Show - SOAR Summit After Party - Grant Workshop This is why the Summit is Appalachia's Premier Event. All that’s missing is YOU! Register before midnight: https://bit.ly/3zVfwrY

SOAR is proud to partner with the Rural Partners Network to directly bring federal experts and resources to Eastern Kentucky. This is a valuable opportunity for community leaders, businesses, and local governments to explore funding and resources that can drive real change in our region. Join us October 16 in Pikeville, KY, for this impactful event, where you'll learn how to leverage federal programs for growth and development. Learn more and register here: bit.ly/3zF2jnc

The updated 2024 SOAR Summit agenda is now available! Explore the full schedule of speakers, sessions, and events happening October 16-18 in Downtown Pikeville, KY. We can't wait to see you there in just 12 short days! Registration closes October 11, so secure your spot soon. Get registered and view the agenda: soar-ky.org/summit

It is a great pleasure to announce that Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear will be joining us as a keynote speaker at the 2024 SOAR Summit! His address will be a must-see, focusing on the initiatives driving growth and revitalization in Eastern Kentucky. Join us October 16-18 in #Pikeville, where leaders, innovators, and changemakers will come together to shape the future of our region. Whether you’re passionate about workforce development, entrepreneurship, healthcare, or broadband expansion, there’s a track for you! Don’t miss your chance to hear from key leaders, including Governor Andy Beshear, Congressman Hal Rogers, and ARC Co-Chair Gayle Manchin! Get ready to Innovate. Inspire. Impact. Secure your spot today: https://lnkd.in/dFNM_Edk

We’re honored to welcome U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers as a keynote speaker during our 2024 SOAR Summit closing session on October 18. The Summit is your opportunity to connect with leaders and changemakers across Appalachia! Join us in Pikeville for insightful programming on Workforce Development, Entrepreneurship, and more. This is the perfect chance to bring your team and engage with the region’s most pressing issues and opportunities! Register now to secure your spot: https://lnkd.in/eWquUchk