UK, key organizations partner for Spring instillation of ‘Growing Our Own’ workshop series

The “Growing Our Own” workshop series is one of nine community engagement projects awarded by the University of Kentucky Office of Land-Grant Engagement. This support aims to expand collaborative efforts between UK and partners across the Commonwealth while addressing important public needs — strengthening outreach and extension efforts in Kentucky. 

LEXINGTON, Ky.— The University of Kentucky, in collaboration with several key partners, is launching the spring installment of the “Growing Our Own” workshop series.

Supported by the UK Office of Land-Grant Engagement, the initiative aims to strengthen and grow small, Kentucky-based businesses across the Commonwealth by equipping participants with the knowledge and resources needed to thrive.

The workshop series is a result of a partnership between Commerce Lexington, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet, KY Apex Accelerator, America’s Small Business Development Center of Kentucky, UK Procurement and Economic Engagement, UK Cooperative Extension Service, and the UK Economic Development Collaborative. The Office of Land-Grant Engagement’s support of this initiative through the Engagement Grant Program underscores the commitment to expanding collaborative efforts and addressing important public needs throughout Kentucky.

“The ‘Growing Our Own’ workshops continue to align perfectly with UK Procurement Services’ ongoing commitment to fostering economic development,” said Barry Swanson, UK chief procurement officer. “Our goal is to create a lasting community impact by identifying, educating, and connecting local businesses with UK procurement opportunities. This initiative not only helps these businesses become successful suppliers for the university but also strengthens their ability to compete and serve throughout the Commonwealth.” 

"Growing Our Own" is a comprehensive, free, three-week workshop series aimed at helping small businesses thrive in Kentucky’s landscape. Each session will take place in person at Commerce Lexington in Lexington, KY, while also being available virtually via Zoom. A Q&A segment will be included in each session, offering valuable insights and information to attendees.

The Spring 2025 series will take place on the following dates:

• April 17: How to Do Business with the University of Kentucky
• April 24: Understanding Bids, Requests for Proposals, and Bonding Requirements
• May 1: Understanding Which Business Certification is Right for You

Each workshop will take place at 5:30 p.m., and free dinner will be provided.

“As part of a land-grant institution, the Economic Development Collaborative remains dedicated to fostering economic growth across the Commonwealth,” said Melody Flowers, UK assistant vice president for economic development and real estate. “The spring installment of the ‘Growing Our Own’ workshop series will continue our mission by equipping small businesses with the knowledge and tools necessary to successfully compete for contracts with local, state, and federal entities, including the University of Kentucky.”

“UK Economic Engagement remains committed to removing barriers and creating opportunities for small businesses across Kentucky,” said Marilyn Clark, UK economic engagement manager. “We recognize that navigating procurement with a large institution like UK can be complex, and that’s why we are excited to offer these workshops at Commerce Lexington. By hosting them in a central location and providing virtual access, we are making sure that businesses throughout the state have the tools they need to succeed.”

The “Growing Our Own” initiative is designed to intentionally equip and provide resources to individuals within Kentucky, fostering successful entrepreneurship across the state. By participating in these workshops, attendees will gain crucial knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of doing business within the state, enhancing their potential for success. In turn, the workshop series will assist the state in growing a base of sustainable businesses, increasing the economic viability of each county, and fulfilling UK’s land-grant mission of advancing Kentucky.

For more information about the “Growing Our Own” workshop series or to register for the events, visit: https://edc.uky.edu/growing-our-own-campaign-landing-page.