Equitable Economic Development

The purpose of the Equitable Economic Development focus within the Economic Development Collaborative is to assist in the breaking down of barriers and expand opportunities for low-income people and minority communities within the city of Lexington. Equitable economic development unlocks the full potential of the local economy. It increases entrepreneurship, ownership, and wealth by investing and taking action in an accountable manner. For a city to become competitive, it must also take equitable action. 

• As the nation continues to deal with the great resignation, it has become more difficult to fill vacancies at UK. Finding ways to create pathways for jobs and opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff is more important than ever

  Some tactics include: 

  • Catalog of existing internships and pipeline programs at UK 
  • Learn more from the KCTCS Workforce Development and Approved Apprenticeship programs 
  • Strengthen our relationship with FCPS High School Academies 
  • Assist groups on campus with the expansion of student internships and mentoring programs 

• How do we make UK a school of choice for underrepresented students and improve retention?  We can create a sense of belonging for underrepresented students by involving them in programs with UK in the community and on campus

  Some tactics include:  

  • Finding a campus/faculty sponsor for the Nerd Squad 
  • Work with the BMW program to engage their students in programs on and visits to campus 
  • Building relationships with the FCPS High School Academies  
  • Reconnect with the Black Achievers and other community programs focused on student career development 

• How do we take our knowledge and programs to the community and meet businesses where they are? And How to find the "hidden entrepreneurs" in our community?

  Some tactics include:    

  • Craft an EED plan that ties to UK's strategic plan
  • Classes in the community to teach organizations "How to do Business" with UK
  • Construction Diversity Accelerator Program in partnership with Turner Construction and the Kentucky Procurement Technical Assistance Center (KYPTAC) launches in March 2022. This 10-week program will give diverse businesses the skills to be competitive in the construction industry. 
  • Continue the KYPATC webinars and “Meet the Prime” series
  • Increase spending with diverse suppliers, especially on long term contracts 
  • Purchase a registration portal and software to track tier 2 spending 
  • Tell the EED story through various marketing channels