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Welcome to the University of Kentucky Economic Development Collaborative, where we believe that economic development is crucial to the success and prosperity of Kentucky. 

The University of Kentucky Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) is a network of campus and community stakeholders who oversee UK’s economic development and business engagement activities. The mission of the EDC is to proactively grow economic prosperity in the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the areas of talent, innovation, place, partnership, and economic engagement.

To stay up-to-date on UK's economic development activity, sign up for the EDC Monthly Newsletter.

 

Recent EDC News

UK’s Growing Our Own Initiative Hosts Training for Businesses on Maintenance, Repair, and Operations Proposal

The University of Kentucky, through its Growing Our Own initiative, is inviting small businesses to participate in a hands-on training session designed to demystify the process of doing business with the university.

UK, Walsh Construction, Goodwill Kentucky launch Pre-Apprenticeship Program Aug. 1

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 28, 2025) — The University of Kentucky, in partnership with Walsh Construction and Goodwill Kentucky, is launching a new Pre-Apprenticeship Program on Aug. 1. The initiative, tied to the construction of the UK Cancer and Advanced Ambulatory Building, is designed to introduce participants to careers in the skilled trades through an eight-week, hands-on learning experience. 

First ‘Growing Our Own’ workshop highlights how to work with UK

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 17, 2025) — The "Growing Our Own" workshop series launched April 17 with its first session, “How to do Business with UK,” held at Commerce Lexington and streamed online. The event, designed to empower Kentucky-owned businesses, offered participants insights into accessing contracting opportunities at the University of Kentucky.