Creating a vibrant eastern kentucky
Eastern Kentucky is an incredible place with unlimited opportunity. A rich mountain culture with world-class outdoor recreation and people with an unbeatable work-ethic, the 606 is one of America’s hidden gems. We connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed today and grow tomorrow.
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Mission
Invest 606’s mission is to catalyze business growth in the 606 by connecting entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed today and grow tomorrow.
Get Involved
To be a part of Invest 606, you just need to be a business or nonprofit based in the 606-area code. We are always looking to support entrepreneurs with growing organizations aligned with the strengths of Appalachian Kentucky.
Support
Invest 606 offers a $15,000 Grand Prize, $8,500 2nd Prize, and $4,000 3rd Prize. Every participant also receives $1,000 cash prize and thousands of dollars in marketing and accounting support.
FOUNDING Partners
THE INVEST 606 ACCELERATOR
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Businesses and entrepreneurs headquartered in the 606-area code apply to the Invest 606 Accelerator. The next cohort application deadline is OCTOBER 1, 2023. Late applications will not be accepted. An independent panel of judges will review all applications and finalists will be announced in late October. Finalists will then participate in the 6-month flexible and entrepreneur-led Invest 606 Accelerator program. Upon successful completion, Finalists qualify to pitch in the Invest 606 Challenge. The grand prize winner receives $15,000 in cash. The runner-up will be awarded $8,000 in cash and third place receives $4,000. Cash prizes have no strings attached.
What Kinds of businesses are eligible to apply?
The only strict requirement is that the business be based in the 606-area code. That said, Invest 606 wants businesses and entrepreneurs who will succeed in Eastern Kentucky. So, we are generally looking for innovative businesses or entrepreneurs operating in growth sectors aligned with the strengths of the region. These include, but are not limited to: healthcare, local food and farming, hospitality, advanced manufacturing, technology, tourism, and outdoor recreation.
How does the accelerator Work?
The Accelerator is designed by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. Over 6 months, Invest 606 Finalists must earn a minimum of 300 points through qualifying activities based on individualized and flexible plans that meet the entrepreneurs’ needs. These activities could include trainings and meetings with our network of collaborators, individual mentoring sessions, online courses, or other supports. Generally, each hour of training or support earns the Finalist 25 points. Additionally, there are three required in-person gatherings. Finalists are required to attend the in-person meetings in order to qualify for the Final Pitch. The dates of the in-person meetings are:
-Kickoff: Saturday, November 4, 2023
-Demo Day: Saturday, February 3, 2024
-Final Pitch: Saturday, April 27, 2024
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Impact Numbers
since inception in 2019
55 finalists from
23 counties
3.25 years in business average
$5.9 million in revenue total
220+ employees supported
20 different industries
2024 Alumni
2023 Alumni
2022 Alumni
2021 Alumni
2020 Alumni
Ready to Participate?
If you are interested in participating in Invest 606 or
if you have questions regarding the programs,
please contact Jessica Bledsoe.
