The Commonwealth of Kentucky

Kentucky is renowned for bourbon, horses, bluegrass, and our beloved Appalachian mountains.

The creative sector thrives in Kentucky, playing an important role in building and sustaining the economic vibrancy of the communities. The Kentucky Arts Council released the state’s first Kentucky Creative Industry Report in December 2014. As defined in the report, the Kentucky creative industry includes all individuals and companies whose products and services originate in artistic, cultural, creative, authentic and/or aesthetic content.

Kentucky AIR

Led by the KY Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Berea, KY, many partners are helping implement AIR programs across the state, The Berea SBDC is the first center in the nation focused on growing the Creative Sector and Tourism. The Kentucky Arts Council is the statewide partner that helps artists and creatives connect with AIR programs.
The Mountain Association (formerly MACED) has been instrumental as well. Initial funding for facilitator training and the license came from the Mountain Association, the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, and the Greater Clark Foundation.