How KIEDA Supports Economic Development on the I-71 corridor

Economic growth is the driver of progress in a community. New and expanding businesses provide jobs for residents, create financial opportunities, and lift the overall quality of life in an area — from education to recreation. Establishing the framework for a business to launch and succeed is crucial for economic growth, and economic development organizations (EDOs) like the Kentucky I-71 Economic Development Alliance (KIEDA) provide the support and resources businesses require for success.

KIEDA is a regional economic partnership serving six counties in Kentucky, which include Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Oldham, Owen, and Trimble. The County Judge-Executive for each county serves on the KIEDA board to guide decision-making and support local and regional growth. Strong relationships with local economic development partners further strengthen regional development efforts. Through collaboration and strategic economic development initiatives, KIEDA supports existing businesses while focusing on recruitment and drawing new enterprises to Kentucky’s I-71 corridor. 

Recruiting New Businesses

The I-71 corridor connects Louisville and Cincinnati, making it the perfect home for any business. With interstate access, two international airports, four shovel-ready business parks, and CSX rail, the infrastructure is in place for small businesses and enterprises ready to scale. KIEDA recruits new companies and industries with site selection assistance, workforce development, and incentive connections.  

Retaining and Expanding Businesses

KIEDA supports existing businesses in its six counties internally and through local partnerships. The Kentucky I-71 Corridor has multiple opportunity zones offering tax savings for investors, while the state of Kentucky provides incentives at the county and state level for qualified projects.

Also, KIEDA offers support as businesses navigate funding opportunities and resources and can connect enterprises with the tools necessary for success. We also make it easy to understand and apply for tax credits and other incentives. 

Supporting Small Businesses

Local businesses have access to KIEDA’s support and local partners, including our local chambers of commerce. The Kentucky Small Business Development Center is a crucial resource for small business growth from the start-up stage forward.

The Kentucky SBDC can help write a business plan, conduct market research, develop marketing strategies, and plan for growth. We also connect with the Small Business Administration programs and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Office of Entrepreneurship to provide additional opportunities to small businesses.

Assisting With Workforce Development

Finding skilled workers is often challenging for businesses, so KIEDA supports workforce training programs to position our six-county region for long-term success. Our diverse labor pool and job market offer a wide range of opportunities. Business owners will find a talent pool ready to tackle industrial, manufacturing, healthcare, and agricultural roles. Businesses can also access employee and business development resources through KIEDA, including state programs and financial assistance.

Improving Quality of Life in Kentucky’s I-71 corridor

EDOs are at the forefront of marketing a region to attract prospective investors and residents. Promoting the quality of life in our six counties is also central to economic growth, and KIEDA focuses on the necessities and amenities new companies and workers require. We promote our community’s assets and business advantages to create awareness and opportunities.

Simultaneously, we facilitate the strategic planning of local stakeholders to develop long-range plans for both business development and quality-of-life initiatives, such as expanding housing to meet market demands, increasing educational opportunities, supporting the arts and culture, and increasing recreational offerings.

To learn more about the opportunities in the I-71 corridor, visit the KIEDA website or contact us today.