Kentucky Receives $40.7 Million Funding Boost for Economic Development and Healthcare Initiative at SOAR Summit

Pikeville, Kentucky — Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and U.S. Representative Hal Rogers presented a significant funding boost to the region during the annual SOAR Summit held from October 16 to 18. The U.S. Economic Development Administration allocated $40.7 million from its Recompete Pilot Program to the SOAR organization, a move aimed at fostering economic development in Eastern Kentucky.

During the summit, University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto announced a new healthcare initiative called the Advancing Kentucky Together Network. This initiative aims to address critical health, education, and workforce challenges faced across the state. The project received approval from the UK Board of Trustees on October 18, coinciding with Capilouto’s appearance at the SOAR event.

The Advancing Kentucky Together Network will begin its operations in partnership with Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), marking it as the first healthcare provider to collaborate with the university under this initiative. Capilouto emphasized that this network will revolutionize healthcare outcomes, workforce training, and educational efforts throughout Kentucky.

According to Capilouto, the new network will initially focus on clinical partnerships and will expand based on the evolving needs of its partners. He stated, “Partnership is the key word… We have had a good working relationship and we are going to strengthen it.” He added that the ultimate goal is to “advance the health of all Kentuckians.”

During discussions with the UK Board of Trustees, PMC President, Chairman, and CEO Donovan Blackburn expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits expected to stem from this collaboration. Capilouto indicated that he anticipates other healthcare providers joining the network soon, broadening its scope and impact.

The Advancing Kentucky Together Network not only aims to treat diseases but also to focus on preventative care. “We want our health care to not only be localized but coordinated,” Capilouto remarked, underscoring the initiative’s commitment to improving overall health outcomes.

Meanwhile, Governor Beshear and Representative Rogers’ funding presentation signals a renewed focus on revitalizing Eastern Kentucky’s economy through strategic investment in both economic and healthcare infrastructures. The collaboration between SOAR, the University of Kentucky, and local healthcare providers marks a significant step toward enhancing the well-being of communities in the region.