Create Bridges

CREATE BRIDGES is a 3 year program for multi-county regions to develop their retail and hospitality industries. Kentucky is fortunate to be one of 3 states to participate in the pilot of this program. The project brings 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 is 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. 

Kentucky Counties Participating in Pilot

FOCUS (Five Original Counties United for Success) Region - Jackson, Clay, Lee, Owsley and Leslie Counties. April Renner from Jackson Energy Cooperative serves as the Chairperson.

Additional Kentucky counties: Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin and Wolfe.

CREATE Data Profiles for two Kentucky Regions

FOCUS   |   Big Sandy

Pilot Program Successes

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

Regional Youth Assist Local Business Owner with Online Marketing