KIEDA’s Focus on Business Retention & Expansion Growth Starts With Supporting What’s Already Here

The Kentucky I-71 Economic Development Alliance (KIEDA) doesn’t have to wait for outside investment to drive progress. Our business retention and expansion (BRE) strategy focuses on strengthening the companies that already call this region home. That’s where most of our growth comes from, and smart economic development delivers the greatest return for our communities.

Why BRE is a Top Priority

As much as 86 percent of new job creation in rural regions like ours comes from businesses already operating here. Supporting them directly means more hiring, more reinvestment, and greater economic stability across Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Oldham, Owen, and Trimble counties.

Issues Surface Early When Relationships Are Strong

A regular, structured engagement with local employers allows us to spot risks like workforce shortages, supply chain disruptions, or regulatory hurdles before they impact operations. That leads to faster problem-solving and stronger business continuity.

Data-Informed Planning, Not Guesswork

A successful BRE program takes a disciplined and deliberate approach to gathering data through surveys, site visits, and industry meetings. That data reveals what businesses need most, whether it’s infrastructure upgrades, training partnerships, or regulatory support. It helps shape the region’s larger development strategy.

Stronger Connections, Faster Results

Knowing who to call when a business hits a roadblock can make the difference between stalled growth and progress. KIEDA is a direct line to solutions, streamlining access to programs, partners, and services that solve problems and support expansion.

How KIEDA Puts BRE to Work

KIEDA’s BRE efforts are built around consistent engagement, actionable data, and follow-through:

• Business Visits: In-depth, one-on-one conversations with company leaders to understand operations, challenges, and growth plans.
• Annual Surveys: Direct input from businesses across sectors, captured consistently to track trends and shape responses.
• Industry Roundtables: Sector-specific discussions highlighting shared challenges and leading to collective solutions.
• Resource Navigation: Connecting businesses with workforce training, capital access, and permitting support.
• Ongoing Follow-Up: Tracking outcomes to ensure companies receive the help they need and adjusting when they don’t.

Real Scenarios, Real Support

Scenario #1

If a growing manufacturer needs help expanding operations. KIEDA connects them to permitting support, workforce programs, and infrastructure contacts to keep the project on track.

Scenario #2

If a logistics company faces rising costs and limited space. A business visit surfaces the issue early, and KIEDA coordinates with utility and zoning partners to identify alternatives.

Scenario #3

If a long-standing employer sees turnover increasing. Through BRE outreach, KIEDA links them with local schools and training partners to create a tailored pipeline.

BRE Is a Core Economic Development Function

KIEDA’s BRE program is a structured, data-driven initiative that informs nearly every decision. Supporting existing businesses is the most direct path to job creation, investment, and long-term growth throughout the I-71 corridor.

Schedule a Business Visit

If your business operates in Carroll, Gallatin, Henry, Oldham, Owen, or Trimble County, connect with KIEDA.

Contact KIEDA to schedule a BRE meeting.