Union Commonwealth University and the Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) Innovation Team are pleased to announce a unique, hands-on opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, develop innovative solutions, and collaborate with like-minded individuals on Thursday, November 7.

The Ideation Workshop, sponsored by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) POWER Grant, will be held on Union’s campus and is free and open to the public. Participants will brainstorm new ideas, create prototypes, and receive expert feedback to help transform their concepts into viable business solutions.

Here’s what to expect

• Collaborate with peers and professionals – Bring your ideas to life by working alongside students from diverse fields of study, community members, and local entrepreneurs.
• Receive mentorship from industry experts – Learn from experienced mentors who will guide you through the process of developing, refining, and pitching your ideas.
• Build, prototype, and pitch – Turn your initial ideas into actionable plans and pitch them to a supportive audience for valuable feedback.

What you’ll gain

In past workshops, students from a variety of disciplines – such as engineering, business management, and biology – have brought fresh perspectives to the table, creating solutions to real-world challenges. As past participant Breana Stacy shared, “It’s everything new business owners need to know! This is where I wish I started.”

SOAR Startup Program Coordinator Danna Barnett says, “The SOAR Innovation Ideation Workshop is more than just a learning experience – it’s an opportunity to gain practical, real-world skills that can shape your entrepreneurial journey. Participants will walk away with new insights, creative problem-solving techniques, and an entrepreneurial mindset that can be applied to future endeavors.”

Who should attend

• Students from all disciplines interested in entrepreneurship and innovation
• Community members looking to engage with local entrepreneurial efforts
• Aspiring entrepreneurs who want to develop new business ideas

Fostering Innovation in Eastern Kentucky

SOAR Innovation works to advance entrepreneurship and support business growth across Eastern Kentucky. By providing workshops, mentorship, and access to resources, SOAR aims to build a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages creativity, innovation, and collaboration.

“SOAR Innovation is committed to driving economic growth and fostering entrepreneurship across Eastern Kentucky,” says Program Manager Barbara Gay. “By providing students and community members with the tools to turn their ideas into successful ventures, we are empowering the next generation of leaders to make meaningful contributions to the region’s economy,” says Program Manager Barbara Gay.

How to participate:

The workshop will take place from 4-7 p.m. in room 210 of the Mahlon A. Miller Science & Business Center on Union’s campus. The event is free of charge, but space is limited. To secure your spot, register here or contact Danna Barnett at danna@soar-ky.org or (859) 397-3266.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with innovators and gain valuable insights into the entrepreneurial process,” Barnett says.

For more information on the SOAR Innovation Ideation Workshop and SOAR’s other initiatives, visit soar-ky.org.