CREATE BRIDGES was a 3 year program for multi-county regions to develop their retail and hospitality industries. Kentucky was fortunate to be one of 3 states to participate in the pilot of this program. The project brought an innovative approach to addressing business and workforce development at no cost to the region, thanks to a Walmart grant.

The CREATE BRIDGES initiative was launched to develop and test a process to promote and strengthen these industries, particularly in rural areas. The process was designed to:

1. Raise awareness of the role these important businesses play in the local economy;
2. Determine challenges and barriers negatively impacting those businesses; and
3. Develop and implement strategies to strengthen the retail, accommodations, tourism, and entertainment sectors within a region. 

Access the CREATE BRIDGES Curriculum

Now available on the Southern Rural Development Center's website! Access the curriculum.

Kentucky Pilot Program Successes

Create Bridges and FOCUS Inc. Provide Worker Incentives to Local Employees

Regional Youth Assist Local Business Owner with Online Marketing