Kentucky is known for its southern charm, peaceful pastures of exquisite horses, and of course – basketball. What many pay significant attention to is our affordability, universities, colleges, industries, and location.
1.)Affordability
The cost of living in the Bluegrass is significantly less than other states and cities that are hubs for startups like San Francisco, Austin, and New York City. Launching and scaling a startup is not the easiest task and for most founders bootstrapping is reality. If a company is bootstrapping to a certain point or they have plans to bootstrap all together being able to save – every penny is critical. Kentucky as a whole is extremely affordable, meaning founders are not forced to live in a shoe box with 5 roommates and working 3 jobs just to get to launched. Having to turn down or leave that cushioning job does not have to be the scariest of decisions.
2.)Universities and Colleges
The culture around our colleges and universities runs deep. Within these institutions are young, innovative and intelligent individuals. We have these resources everywhere we turn. Leveraging partnerships with startups, universities and corporations is vital for any ecosystem and Kentucky is prime just for that.
3.) Location
Within a quick drive you have access to numerous major cities with various resources and opportunities. This is something that many people ignore, and stay in their home-based city missing out on endless possibilities. Nestled in the middle of major hubs is resources that few have and we must take advantage of it.
4.) Industries and Corporations
Money is to be made in areas and industries that have not experienced high levels of innovation. Agriculture is a massive industry with incredible space for innovation and Kentucky is placed in the right position to be the leader for Agtech. With strong university programs, major companies like Alltech, and passionate individuals it should be Kentucky’s to take. Other industries such as bourbon, manufacturing, sports, horses and tourism there is innovation for us lead.
5.) Passionate Organizations
In each area of Kentucky we have passionate organizations driving the startup community. By all organizations working side by side to drive the startup ecosystem forward, we can create significant momentum. Knowing who does what and how is critical in aligning these initiatives as we work to pave the way.
6.)Crazy Passionate People
Kentuckians are some of the most passionate people I know… I mean we burn couches because of a basketball game (not that we approve of that!). Who else does that?? The Derby is one of the biggest sporting events in the country and is also the most exciting two minutes in sports period. Kentucky knows how to drive an exciting crowd and that is exactly what startups need. Startups and Innovation need a crazy amount of support and passion.
There are big moves to make for Kentucky to put itself on the map for startups but there is no doubt we have what it takes.
