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State Funding Supports Future Landing Entrepreneurship Center in Downtown Owensboro

OWENSBORO, KY (July 7, 2026) – The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) announced Tuesday that The Landing Entrepreneurship Center has received $2.25 million in state project funding to develop the entrepreneurship hub. Through a future partnership with the City of Owensboro, The Landing is planned at 101 Daviess Street in the historic Turley building.

The Landing Entrepreneurship Center is designed to strengthen Owensboro’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, support innovation, and create long-term economic growth opportunities throughout the region. It will establish a flexible coworking environment, providing entrepreneurs, remote professionals, and growing businesses with workspace, meeting areas, and collaborative opportunities. The Landing will also house the office for the Kentucky Small Business Development Center, bringing business coaching, technical assistance, and access to capital together under one roof.
The project also aligns with growing workforce trends both nationally and locally. According to JobsEQ data, approximately 2,800 Daviess County residents work remotely, reflecting continued growth in flexible and location-independent careers. Community leaders believe expanding coworking and entrepreneurial infrastructure will help Owensboro better retain local talent while also attracting additional remote workers, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals seeking communities with strong quality of place, affordability, and business support systems.
“The Landing represents an investment in Owensboro’s future,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “We’re grateful to our legislative delegation for their partnership and support as together we create a space for entrepreneurs, innovators, and remote professionals to connect and grow.”
“I’m very excited about the progress of The Landing” said City of Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson. “As I’ve said many times, you never stay the same, you either get better or you get worse. The Landing is certainly a step in the right direction. Giving people with a great idea the support they need to turn it into reality is a good thing, and I look forward to seeing the opportunities it creates.”
Judge Executive Charlie Castlen also expressed his excitement for the project: “The Landing Entrepreneurship Center has untold potential for our community by bringing entrepreneurs and remote workers together allowing them to learn from one another, collaborate on projects, and expand their business footprints.”
Legislators supporting the project also shared the following statements:
“The Landing Entrepreneurship Center represents the kind of strategic investment that helps communities grow from within. Our locally owned businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbone of Kentucky’s economy, and this project will provide the resources, connections, and support needed to help them succeed. Just as importantly, it will help attract and welcome a new generation of entrepreneurs to our community, creating opportunities for innovation, job growth, and long-term economic success. I’m proud the General Assembly was able to support this project and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our region for years to come,” shared Representative Suzanne Miles.
Small business owners and entrepreneurs are the very foundation of a thriving economy. The Landing will provide critical facilities and resources that both new business owners and thriving entrepreneurs need to successfully conduct business.  I look forward to seeing the economic growth that will result from this business tool being available to our future local business leaders,” shared Representative DJ Johnson.
“Our legislative delegation focused on several projects for Owensboro. Together we were able to bring home funding for this and other priority projects.  I was happy to support this on the Senate side.  It is my hope that The Landing can spur new job creation under the leadership of Claude Bacon and staff,” shared Senator Gary Boswell.
The Landing is expected to create positive economic impacts throughout downtown Owensboro and Daviess County by increasing daily activity and foot traffic to local businesses, restaurants, and retail establishments. Beyond coworking space, the facility is envisioned as a hub for networking, mentorship, workshops, entrepreneurial training, and collaborative business programming that supports both emerging businesses and remote professionals.
As communities across the country continue investing in entrepreneurial infrastructure to support innovation, talent retention, and small business growth, The Landing positions Owensboro-Daviess County as a community committed to helping entrepreneurs and professionals build and grow locally.
The funding was included in the Commonwealth’s 2026–2028 budget legislation through the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development.
More details about the project timeline and future development phases will be announced as planning continues.

Reentry Success Program Celebrates Cohorts 7 and 8 Graduates at Daviess County Detention Center

OWENSBORO, KY (June 30, 2026) –  The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation joined partners on Tuesday at the Daviess County Detention Center to celebrate the graduation of ten inmates from the Reentry Success Program. Seven graduates were on hand to receive their Enhanced Operator I and Workforce Readiness Certificates, earned through Owensboro Community and Technical College’s FlexTrain platform.

The program equips selected inmates with industry-recognized skills in areas like hand and power tools, lean operations, workplace safety, and workplace principles — preparing them to enter the regional workforce with confidence and credentials in hand.

The ceremony was a powerful reminder of what this program is really about: people. Graduates heard from community leaders and partners who believe in the power of second chances, including Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, Owensboro City Commissioner Curtis Maglinger, Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger, Reentry Program Coordinator Sarah McLaughlin, and Katie Vincent of Owensboro Community and Technical College Workforce Solutions.

Representatives from CRS OneSource, one of Owensboro’s longest-standing family-owned businesses and a committed partner in second chance employment, attended to welcome graduates into the workforce and encourage them to apply upon their release.

The highlight of the ceremony was a keynote from Byron Gaither Sr., a graduate of the Reentry Success Program who has since built a multi-business enterprise and works as a line contractor for Spectrum. His message was direct and deeply personal.

“Three years ago, I didn’t know what I was going to do,” Gaither told the graduates. “Now I have major corporations calling me and asking my availability. It works if you work.”

GOEDC President and CEO Claude Bacon celebrated the graduates and connected their achievement to the region’s broader workforce needs.

“You are wanted and needed in this community,” Bacon said. “Completing this program takes real commitment, and that is exactly the kind of dedication our employers are looking for. We are proud of every single one of you.”

The Reentry Success Program is a collaboration between the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, Owensboro Community and Technical College, the Daviess County Detention Center, the City of Owensboro, the Daviess County Fiscal Court, and the Kentucky Department of Corrections Division of Reentry Services.

GOEDC Opens Applications for Elevate Owensboro Mentorship Program

OWENSBORO, KY (May 21, 2026) –The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) has opened applications for the second cohort of Elevate Owensboro, its mentorship program that connects entrepreneurs and small business owners with seasoned local business leaders for mentorship. Five mentees will be selected for this cohort, each matched one-on-one with an experienced mentor from the Owensboro-Daviess County business community.
Building on the success of its inaugural cohort, Elevate Owensboro pairs participants with mentors based on industry, experience, and compatibility. Over six months, pairs meet regularly to set goals, navigate challenges in leadership, marketing, finance, and operations, and build the kind of professional connections that are hard to come by on your own.
Meagan Cooley, owner of Meadow House Home, Gift & Floral and mentee in Elevate Owensboro’s inaugural cohort, described the impact of her mentor, Natasha Stanley, owner of Bella Ragazza Boutique, as both practical and encouraging.
“Her guidance helped me think through key areas of my business strategically rather than reactively,” shared Cooley. “As a small business owner, it can be hard to look up from the day-to-day grind to plan ahead, but meeting with my mentor helped me to do just that,” shared Cooley. “And beyond practical advice, the most beneficial part was the encouragement. Entrepreneurship can be lonely at times, so it was so helpful to make a new friend who has been in my shoes.”
Nicholas Whiteside, owner of The Earle Men’s Store, was paired with John Moore of Moore Automotive Group, Legends, and Marshall Ventures Fund, and shared that the program was a catalyst for growth for his business.
“The guidance I received from my mentor in the Elevate Owensboro program had an immediate impact on my retail business,” shared Whiteside. “My mentor taught me how to study my sales numbers to improve my inventory buying decisions, marketing strategy, and long-term planning.  He also provided insight into building business systems and strategies for growth.  I believe the Elevate Owensboro program was a springboard for growth for my business.”
Jamie Johnson, GOEDC Vice President of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship, said feedback from the inaugural cohort reinforced the value of mentorship and provided insight into how the program can continue growing moving forward.
“We were encouraged by the success of our first cohort and the positive feedback from both mentors and mentees,” shared Johnson. “The experience also gave us valuable insight into how we can continue strengthening the program moving forward. For anyone considering working with a mentor, this is an opportunity to connect with someone who understands the challenges of starting and growing a business because they’ve experienced it firsthand.”
Applications are now open for the second cohort of Elevate Owensboro and are open to entrepreneurs and small business owners at any stage, from pre-launch ideas to established businesses looking to grow. Applications close June 12, 2026, and the five-pair cohort will officially kick off with the Elevate Owensboro Welcome Breakfast on Tuesday, July 7. Interested applicants can apply online at edc.owensboro.com/elevate-owensboro-application.

Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 Small Biz Crawl in Downtown Owensboro

Downtown Owensboro is crawling with excitement—literally! Join us Thursday, May 14 for the 2nd Annual Small Biz Crawl, an all-day celebration of our local businesses and the vibrant heart of our city during National Small Business Month.

Hosted during National Small Business Month, the Crawl invites the community to explore locally owned businesses, discover pop-up vendors, enjoy live music throughout downtown, and support the small businesses that help make Owensboro vibrant.

Whether you stop by for lunch, stay all evening, or make a full day of it, there will be something happening around every corner.

Here’s your full guide to crawling like a pro:

1. Who’s Participating?

This year’s Crawl features a fantastic mix of Downtown OBKY businesses and pop-ups hosted by downtown locations. All purchases from any of these registered participants count toward the $1,000+ in cash prizes, so shop, eat, and explore freely!

Downtown Businesses

These brick-and-mortar businesses call Downtown Owensboro home and they’re ready to welcome you in!

  • Big Whiskey’s Owensboro | 11 AM – 1 AM
    10% off appetizers, $11 steak & fries, and $15 beer buckets from 6-9 pm!
  • Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum | 10 AM – 5 PM
    Free museum admission!
  • Brasher’s Lil Nashville | 4 PM – 2 AM
    Open Mic from 6 PM – 9 PM & Karaoke from 9 PM – Midnight!
  • Byron & Barclay | 11-6 PM
    In store specials – come see for yourself!
  • Colby’s Deli & Cafe | 7 AM – 2 pm
    New to the deli?! You get a complimentary cookie!
  • Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits | 11-8 pm
  • Gramps Coffee & Donuts | 7 AM – 3 PM
  • Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce | 8-4:30 pm
    Hosting several member businesses in their office – check out the list below!
  • Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront | Open 24 hours
    *Drop your receipts from all participating locations off any time to be entered for cash prizes!
  • Home2Suites | Open 24 hours
    *Drop your receipts from all participating locations off any time to be entered for cash prizes!
  • John Ross Martin, Realtor at BHG | 10 AM – 6 PM
    Complimentary real estate valuations, & strategy conversations!
    *Drop your receipts from all participating locations off any time to be entered for cash prizes!
  • Kingdom Cords | 10 AM – 6 PM
    15% off all clothing (excludes wedding packages)!
  • Lure Seafood & Grille | 11 AM – 10 PM
    Buy $50 in gift cards and receive a free $10 gift card!
  • Magnolia Mercantile | 10 AM – 6 PM
  • Mancave for Men | 10 AM – 5 PM
    10% off haircuts and beard trims!
  • Meadow House Floral + Gifts | 10 AM – 5 PM
    10% off all purchases (excludes flowers)!
  • Mellow Mushroom | 11 AM – 9 PM
  • Owensboro Brew Bridge | 3 PM – 10 PM
  • Pub on 2nd | 4-10 pm
    Singo begins at 7 pm!
  • SIP Wine Bar | 1 PM – 10 PM
  • The Creme Coffee House | 7 AM – 9 PM
    $1 off specialty lattes
  • Willow & Pine Market | 10 AM – 6 PM

Pop-Ups

These incredible local businesses don’t have a brick-and-mortar downtown, but thanks to their generous hosts, they’re popping up just for the Crawl!

  • 1885 Cocktail Bar | 12-4 pm
    Popping up at The Creme!
  • Becca Bakes | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • BooGi Bliss LLC | 10-5 pm
    Popping up at the Pub on 2nd
  • Boot Barn | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • Confetti Boutique | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • Hello Pop | 4 PM–8 PM
    Popping up at Lure Seafood & Grille
  • Hill View Farms | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • Holes to Go Owensboro | 8 AM–4 PM
    Popping up at John Ross Martin Campaign Offices
  • Hyacinth House | 11 AM–5 PM
    Popping up at Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum
  • J’s Good Grub | 2:30–4:30 PM
    Popping up at Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
  • M Squared Marketing
    Popping up at Pub on 2nd
  • Maui’s Indoor Theme Park | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • Owensboro Health Healthpark | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • The Earle | 8 AM–4:30 PM
    Popping up at GO Chamber
  • The Little Healer LLC | 10 AM–4 PM
    Popping up at John Ross Martin Campaign Offices

2. Where’s the music?

12 PM – 2 PM: Andy Brasher at Mellow Mushroom

2 PM – 4 PM: Jarred Green at Office of John Ross Martin

5 PM – 7 PM: Dustin & Tristian Taylor at Willow & Pine

6 PM – 8 PM: Paul Montgomery at Big Whiskey’s

6 PM – 9 PM: Rack ’em Leon at Lure Seafood & Grille

7 PM – 9 PM: Joshua Orion at The Pub on Second

3. How do I win cash?

Every receipt = one entry! Make a purchase at any participating business (downtown or pop-up), then turn in your receipts for a shot at $1,000 in cash prizes:

  • 1 Grand Prize: $500
  • 5 Additional Prizes: $100 each

How to enter:
Drop your receipts off at the Home2Suites, Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront, or John Ross Martin – Campaign Offices by 10 AM on Friday, May 15. Winners will be announced on Friday!

State of the Economy Highlights Momentum Across Greater Owensboro

GOEDC recently hosted its inaugural State of the Economy, bringing together business leaders, community partners, and regional stakeholders for a forward-looking look at growth across Greater Owensboro.

The event reflected the strength of collaboration throughout the region, with each table featuring a centerpiece representing a key industry including healthcare, education, tourism, agriculture, small business, and manufacturing. Together, these sectors tell the story of a diverse and growing economy.

Guests were welcomed by graduating seniors from Brescia University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Owensboro Community & Technical College, and Western Kentucky University, offering a meaningful reminder of the talent pipeline supporting the region’s future workforce.

The program also welcomed elected officials, regional economic development partners, and representatives from the Green River Area Development District and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, reinforcing the importance of strong partnerships in driving continued progress.

Featured speaker Michael Antonelli, Market Strategist at Baird Private Wealth Management delivered insights on the broader economic landscape and the opportunities ahead for communities like Owensboro. A special thanks to Mitch Settle and The Settle Group for providing such an incredible speaker.

GOEDC President and CEO Claude Bacon shared updates on recent expansions, available sites, and developments expected to shape the region’s continued growth.

The event also recognized individuals and organizations making a meaningful impact:

  • Entrepreneurial Spirit Award: Seth Woodward, Wonder Whip
  • Downtown Energizer Award: Tamarra and Andy Brasher, Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville
  • Economic Accelerator Award: UniFirst Corporation
  • Distinguished Service Award: Scott McCain, Owensboro-Daviess County Industrial Foundation

GOEDC also recognized outgoing board member Joe Schepers, Executive Director at RWRA, for his years of service and contributions to the organization.

This inaugural event marked an important step in highlighting the momentum of Greater Owensboro and the partnerships that continue to move the region forward.

Downtown Owensboro Inc. Announces 2nd Annual Small Biz Crawl Set for May 14

Downtown Owensboro Inc. Announces 2nd Annual Small Biz Crawl Set for May 14

OWENSBORO, KY (April 28, 2026) – Downtown Owensboro will once again come alive with shopping, dining, and community spirit as the 2nd Annual Downtown Small Biz Crawl returns on Thursday, May 14, 2026.

Hosted by Downtown Owensboro Inc. in partnership with Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, the event celebrates National Small Business Month while spotlighting the locally owned businesses that make downtown Owensboro a vibrant destination.

Following a successful inaugural year that featured dozens of participating businesses, increased foot traffic, and strong community engagement, organizers are preparing for an even bigger celebration in 2026. The all-day event invites residents and visitors to explore downtown shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues while enjoying special promotions, pop-up vendors, giveaways, and interactive experiences. Designed to boost weekday traffic and local spending, the crawl gives businesses an added economic spark during a traditionally slower midweek day.

Shoppers can also compete for cash prizes throughout the event. Every qualifying purchase made at a participating downtown business will count as an entry, giving attendees even more reason to shop local, explore multiple businesses, and support Owensboro’s small business community. Additional prize details and entry information will be announced soon.

Live music will be sprinkled throughout the Downtown Overlay District, with entertainment organized by Brasher’s Lil Nashville to keep the energy high and the celebration going all day long.

New this year, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce will join the fun by hosting a number of its member businesses inside its office in the Commerce Center, creating even more opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses to connect with the community.

“We’re excited to partner with the EDC and Downtown Owensboro Inc. for this unique opportunity showcasing our local small businesses.  Opening our doors to chamber members who don’t have a downtown footprint will increase visibility and the economic impact for the Small Biz Crawl,” shared Dave Kirk, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

“This event is all about celebrating the businesses that make downtown Owensboro such a unique and exciting place,” said Derek Stone, president of Downtown Owensboro Inc. and manager of Mellow Mushroom. “Last year’s turnout showed just how much people enjoy supporting local, and we’re excited to bring even more energy and excitement to downtown this year.”

Claude Bacon, President & CEO of Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, said the event continues to be a strong example of how small businesses help drive Owensboro’s economy.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and downtown plays a major role in creating a vibrant place to live, work, and visit,” Bacon said. “The Small Biz Crawl is a fun and impactful way to support entrepreneurs, increase traffic for local businesses, and showcase all that Owensboro has to offer.”

To register your business or learn more, visit edc.owensboro.com/crawl. Additional event details, participating businesses, and promotions will be announced in the coming weeks.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About Downtown Owensboro Inc.
Downtown Owensboro Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the growth, vitality, and visibility of downtown Owensboro. Through events, partnerships, and strategic initiatives, the organization works to cultivate a thriving business community and vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

GOEDC and Women’s Business Center of Kentucky to Host “Strong Women, Strong Coffee”

GOEDC and Women’s Business Center of Kentucky Collaborate to Host “Strong Women, Strong Coffee”

GOEDC and Women’s Business Center of Kentucky Collaborate to Host “Strong Women, Strong Coffee”– The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), in partnership with the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky, will host Strong Women, Strong Coffee on Tuesday, April 14, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at The Party Space Place.

The event will bring together women from across the Owensboro community who are building businesses, leading organizations, and driving progress. It is a chance for women to connect, access resources, and learn from each other as they continue to grow in their careers and businesses.

The program will feature a panel discussion with local leaders, including Kelly Harris of Harris Group, Allyson Sanders of The Party Space Place, Kate Higdon of Captured Moments Photography, and Audrey Lillpop of The Way Agency. Panelists will share insights on leadership, business growth, and navigating their careers, offering practical takeaways for attendees at all stages.

“We’ve always had strong women in Owensboro leading, building businesses, and shaping this community,” said Jamie Johnson, Vice President of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship at GOEDC. “This is about creating more opportunities for them to be in the same room and build on what they’re already doing.”

“We are incredibly excited to bring this statewide event to Owensboro and to continue expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs across Kentucky,” said Devanny King, Executive Director of the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky. “We’re especially grateful to GOEDC for their partnership in making this possible. Owensboro is already home to strong women leaders; this is about amplifying that momentum and helping entrepreneurs grow, connect, and build beyond.”

Registration is free and open to the public. To learn more and register, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/strong-women-strong-coffee-owensboro-tickets-1981963908403

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation works to generate opportunity and wealth for the Greater Owensboro region by cultivating growth in traded industries and supporting new and existing businesses.

About the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky
The Women’s Business Center of Kentucky provides resources, training, and support to help entrepreneurs and small business owners start, grow, and succeed.

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GOEDC to host Social Media in Full Bloom with Kate Higdon

GOEDC to host Social Media in Full Bloom with Kate Higdon

OWENSBORO, KY (February 18, 2026) – The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) will host Social Media In Full Bloom: Planting Posts That Perform with social media influencer Kate Higdon on Thursday, March 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bayside at The Party Space Place.

Designed as an intermediate-level course, the workshop will build on foundational social media strategies and guide participants through hands-on exercises to help organizations more effectively leverage social media for business growth. Attendees will leave with practical tools, content ideas, and a clearer strategy for creating posts that perform.

“To stay competitive today, businesses have to show up where their customers already spend time, and that is on social media,” said Jamie Johnson, Vice President of Small Business, Entrepreneurship, and Workforce Development at GOEDC. “This is not a lecture style session. It is hands on. Participants will evaluate what they are doing, refine their message, and walk away with content and ideas they can actually put to work immediately.”

The session will be led by Kate Higdon, social media influencer and owner of Captured Moments Photography, who brings practical experience in building an engaged online audience and translating digital engagement into business results.

“Social media doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or inconsistent,” said Higdon. “When you approach your content intentionally and understand what your audience is responding to, you can create posts that truly connect. I’m excited to continue helping local organizations plant content that will continue to grow long after the workshop ends.”

The event will take place at Bayside at The Party Space Place, offering a collaborative setting for learning and networking. Lunch will be provided.

Tickets are $10 and registration is now open online here: https://edc.owensboro.com/social-media-in-full-bloom/

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) supports economic growth across the region by advancing business development, entrepreneurship, and workforce initiatives.

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Regional Partners to Host Community AI Seminar in Owensboro

Regional Partners to Host Community AI Seminar in Owensboro

Owensboro, KY (February 23, 2026) – Four organizations serving the Greater Owensboro region are partnering to present “From Chat to Change: Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” a community seminar focused on helping people better understand how artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and do business.

The event will be held Friday, March 20 at 9 am at Owensboro Community & Technical College and is a collaborative effort between the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC), the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, and the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Open to the public, the program is designed to provide a clear, practical look at how artificial intelligence is already shaping workplaces and day-to-day operations.

“Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming an integral part of how our communities work and grow, and people deserve a clear, practical understanding of this technological revolution. This event is about giving citizens, leaders, and business partners straightforward insight they can use,” said Dr. Ryan Hall, Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Lead at OCTC. “OCTC is proud to partner with GOEDC, GO Chamber, and the SBDC to bring that conversation into the community in a way that’s accessible, thoughtful, and focused on real opportunities.”

“Artificial intelligence is already shaping how work gets done across every industry,” said Claude Bacon, President and CEO at GOEDC. “This is about making sure our community understands what’s changing, feels prepared to adapt, and has practical tools to move forward with confidence.”

The seminar will highlight real-world applications of AI, common challenges organizations face when adopting new technology, and practical ways individuals and businesses can begin using these tools responsibly.

“AI is changing the way the world does business and we want to do everything we can to help prepare our members to adapt and thrive.  We’re grateful to get to be a part of this meaningful partnership and excited to see where it leads,” said Dave Kirk, President and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

“The SBDC supports entrepreneurs as they navigate change in real time,” said Jody Hulsey, Director of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro. “This session delivers practical tools and insights they can use right away.”

Registration for the event is now open.

From Chat to Change: Leading in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Owensboro Community & Technical College
Humanities Building, Blandford Hall
Friday, March 20, 2026 | 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Register Here

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting innovation, workforce readiness, and long-term economic growth across Owensboro and Daviess County.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) supports economic growth across the region by advancing business development, entrepreneurship, and workforce initiatives.

About Owensboro Community & Technical College
Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC), part of the Kentucky Community & Technical College System, provides accessible education and workforce training that prepares students for in-demand careers and supports regional industry needs.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center
The Kentucky Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been assisting the commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced and knowledgeable staff, the Kentucky SBDC provides unparalleled business coaching and training services at no cost to help existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs start, grow and succeed.

Kentucky SBDC services include one-on-one business coaching, training workshops, access to market research, loan packaging help, assistance with financial projections and information needed to make informed business decisions.

Kentucky SBDC is co-sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and is administered by the University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment in partnership with regional academic institutions, economic development organizations, the private sector and the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce supports and advocates for local businesses by fostering connections, professional development, and a strong regional business climate.

Media Contacts
GOEDC – Summer Aldridge, 270-926-4339
SBDC – Jody Hulsey, 270-574-9990
GO Chamber – Dave Kirk, 270-926-1860
OCTC – Becky Barnhart, 270-686-4445

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Sprocket & GOEDC Partner to Host Founders on Tap

Sprocket & GOEDC Partner to Host Founders on Tap: A Panel Discussion for Entrepreneurs Navigating Growth Alongside Real Life

Owensboro, KY (February 19, 2026) – Building a business while managing a full-time job, family responsibilities, and limited resources is a reality for many entrepreneurs across the region. To support founders navigating this challenge, Sprocket and the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) will co-host Founders on Tap: Real Talk for Growing Businesses on Tuesday, March 3, from 5:30–6:45 PM at The Pub on Second in Owensboro.

This relaxed, after-hours panel discussion is designed for entrepreneurs at a range of stages, from those exploring an idea to business owners navigating questions around growth, operations, finance, or marketing. Attendees can expect honest answers, practical insight, and real conversation with experienced leaders who understand the entrepreneurial journey firsthand.

“So many people in our region are building something innovative alongside everything else in their lives,” said Executive Director Monica Bilak. “This event creates space for honest conversation about what that actually takes – and connects founders with the practical guidance and local support that can help them move forward.”

“Entrepreneurship in our region often happens after hours, between family commitments, and alongside full-time jobs. That is the reality for many of the people we serve.” said Jamie Johnson, VP of Workforce Development at GOEDC. “Founders on Tap is about meeting them where they are and giving them access to honest advice, real resources, and a network that wants to see them succeed.”

The panel will feature four regional leaders with deep expertise in entrepreneurship, leadership, and business development:

  • John Truitt, Entrepreneur in Residence at Sprocket and co-founder of Kalleo Technologies
  • Amie Tooley, Founder of Connective Consulting Services and member of the Maxwell Leadership Team
  • Jody Hulsey, Business Coach at Owensboro Small Business Development Center
  • Drew Hardesty, Owner and Founder of Wonder Boy Media

Attendees will leave with clearer next steps, new connections, and a stronger understanding of the local support available to them. The event is free and open to the public. Questions can be submitted in advance during registration.

To register and submit questions, visit: https://sprocketpaducah.com/event/founders-on-tap-real-talk-for-growing-businesses/

About Sprocket
Sprocket supports entrepreneur-led economic growth by helping founders build companies that bring new revenue into the region, attract investment, and create long-term impact. Through programs like Market Fit Lab, Sprocket focuses on quality, discipline, and measurable outcomes.

About Greater Owensboro Economic Development Center (GOEDC)
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

Media Contacts
Jamie Johnson
Vice President of Workforce Development
Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
JJohnson@owensboro.com

Monica Bilak
Executive Director
Sprocket
monica@sprocketwky.com

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