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Applications are open for the next cohort of Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR)’s EKY Runway Social Enterprise Accele...
03/12/2026

Applications are open for the next cohort of Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR)’s EKY Runway Social Enterprise Accelerator, with a deadline of Friday, April 3, 2026.

The Social Enterprise Accelerator (SEA) helps entrepreneurs across Eastern Kentucky start or grow businesses that address workforce barriers such as childcare, transportation, housing, and workforce development. Through the program, founders receive structured business education, one-on-one coaching, mentorship, and connections to funding and regional partners to help turn community-rooted ideas into sustainable businesses.

The first SEA cohort in Fall 2025 supported entrepreneurs working across multiple sectors and resulted in several measurable outcomes. Participants launched new businesses, secured funding, competed in regional pitch competitions, and advanced projects focused on childcare, transportation, housing, and community services. Several businesses registered with the state during the program, and fellows collectively secured grants and competition awards to support early-stage development.

One example is Shining Stars Daycare in Jenkins, Kentucky, which opened in January 2026 and expanded access to childcare in a high-need community. The licensed facility can serve up to 48 children and employ up to 11 staff members, helping support workforce participation while creating new jobs locally.

Additional fellows secured grants, launched products, advanced transportation services, developed affordable housing concepts, and strengthened nonprofit or social enterprise ventures through governance development, fundraising, and market validation.
SEA is part of the EKY Runway initiative, which aims to reduce workforce barriers by supporting businesses that expand access to essential services across Eastern Kentucky.

More information and the application are available here:

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03/09/2026

BOIL WATER ADVISORY – WALLINS COMMUNITY

The Black Mountain Utility District has issued a boil water advisory for the entire Wallins community until further notice.

Customers in the affected area are advised to boil all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing food. Water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least three minutes and then allowed to cool before use.

This advisory has been issued as a precaution to ensure public safety. Residents should continue boiling water until the advisory is officially lifted by the Black Mountain Utility District.

We will share updates as soon as more information becomes available.

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