Successful economic development requires each community to have an active and effective
development agency. The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development partners with several
organizations to assist communities in the design and improvement of local economic development
strategy.
Community Action Plans -
The Community Action Plan program is designed to help
the local development agency create a concise, focused plan of work. Within a facilitated
8-hour program, local decision-makers review past successes, assess local opportunities and
challenges, and plan for the future. The outcome of the Action Plan program is a specific work
agenda for the local agency, including specific action items, distinct tasks, and timelines for
their completion.
Community Assessment Visits –
Sponsored by the Kentucky Association for
Economic Development (KAED),a statewide professional organization of business and local
development leaders, the Cabinet participates in a two-day assessment of local resources for
sound economic development. Activities include interviews with local leaders, facilitated
discussions with community groups, and tours of community assets. The outcome is a written
report that includes specific recommendations for community improvement.
Business Retention and Expansion Program -
The Cabinet partners with community leaders and Kentucky State
University to conduct a survey of targeted local businesses. This program measures community
strengths and weaknesses for economic growth. Each local program includes a detailed report
prepared by the university partner. This 16-week program requires significant
local involvement in business interviews, follow-up on current business issues, and development
of the final report.
Economic Development Practices Workshops -
The Cabinet partners with the Kentucky Association for Economic
Development (KAED) to provide periodic workshops on
basic economic development processes and practices. Sessions are held at various locations
throughout the state and are listed on the association Web site at
http://www.kaedonline.org/.
For more information on these community programs, please contact Janet Williamson in the
Department for Existing Business Development at Janet.Williamson@ky.gov or by phone at 800-626-2930 or 502-564-7140.