The purpose of Economic Engagement within the Economic Development Collaborative is to assist in breaking down barriers and expanding business and career opportunities for all people within the Commonwealth. Economic engagement unlocks the full potential of local economies. It increases entrepreneurship, ownership, and wealth by investing and taking action in an accountable manner. For a city or state to become competitive, it must also take action.
Economic Engagement
Economic Engagement Subcommittee Objectives Growing our own Talent
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Finding ways to create pathways for jobs and opportunities for UK 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
Growing our own Students
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How do we make UK a school of choice for first generation students and improve retention? How might we create a sense of belonging by involving students in programs with UK in the community and on campus?
Some tactics include:
- Work through UK Extension Offices and 4H agents to engage more middle and high school students
- Communicate financial aid opportunities for low-income families
- Build relationships with the FCPS High School Academies
- Connect with community programs focused on student career development
Growing our own Entrepreneurs
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How do we take our knowledge and programs to the community and meet businesses where they are? And how do we find the "hidden entrepreneurs" in our community?
Some tactics include:
- Craft an Economic Engagement subcommittee plan that ties to UK's strategic plan
- Hold classes throughout the Commonwealth to teach organizations "How to do Business" with UK
- Partner with Turner Construction and the Kentucky APEX Accelerator to present a 10-week program to give small businesses the skills to be competitive in the construction industry.
- Continue the APEX webinars and “Meet the Primes” (contractors) series
- Increase spending with small business suppliers, especially on long term contracts
- Purchase a registration portal and software to track tier 2 spending
- Tell the Economic Engagement story through various marketing channels