We've always felt that one of the keys to revitalizing and diversifying Appalachia's economy is entrepreneurship, so it was great to see an article in Business Lexington about program to help schoolkids start their own businesses. Just like we want kids to start early on math, science and reading, thinking entrepreneurially also needs to start young. Funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and run by the University of Kentucky, the program gives teams of kids $15 in seed money and helps them with planning, market research and implementation. If successful, the kids return the seed money but keep the rest for themselves. And it's made an impact:
Wells [a middle-school social studies teacher] said the students really liked the hands-on aspect of the program and “learned a lot by doing” while also learning responsibility and how to collaborate with other students.Denham noted that while all students could benefit from E-Discovery Challenge, it is especially important to understand that ARC funds education projects that will benefit students in the most economically distressed counties where many schools don’t have the opportunities that some of the more “affluent” counties do.“This is giving these students and schools the chance to shine and show their talent, and they are amazing,” she said.
Local artisans and entrepreneurs are hoping to bring life back to the rural communities along Route 7 in eastern Kentucky through antique shops and by investing in local artists.
Community Members hope to revitalize Route 7
appalachiantransition.org
Route 7 Antique Alley and Route 7 Artisan Fellowship are teaming up in eastern Kentucky, working across county lines, and hoping to make change happen in their communities. With 5,200 plus members …
shared 's post.
"A just transition requires reinvesting in regions that have historically relied on fossil fuel extraction as their economic engine. These communities fueled the growth of our nation and paid a heavy toll with the lives of their workers and the health of their communities. Creating a just transition means building a new economy that is diverse, sustainable and provides opportunities for all."
The folks at have made this awesome video about Pine Mountain and their efforts to preserve it. Take a few minutes to watch it today - you won't regret it.
KNLT has completed production of our short film The Wildlands of Pine Mountain. The film was shown at film festivals in Louisville and Morehead over the last few months. We are pleased to now share it with you. Produced by: Kertis Creative Script by: KNLT Narration by: Joan Shelley Music by: Warren Byrom & Joan Shelley We want to thank the following organizations for their financial support of this project: Owsley Brown II Family Foundation, Snowy Owl Foundation, Forecastle Foundation, Land Trust Alliance, Patagonia and Wolverine Worldwide.