Lexington recently ranked No. 17, up nine spots from last year, on the list of 2022 Best of the Midwest Startup City Rankings . The rankings were determined by a number of factors including how active the startup community is, resources available to help startups grow, and the city’s economic environment.
So, do you have a super cool business idea, but don’t know where to begin? Check out these five helpful (and mostly free) resources to help get the wheels in motion.
📖 The Lexington Public Library
| First things first, get yourself a library card. Once you’re a member, you’ll have access to schedule one-on-one time with a librarian to walk through these various resources:
- Business Source
- LinkedIn Learning
- Small Business Reference Center
🤝 Kentucky Small Business Development Center | KSBDC helps connect new + existing entrepreneurs to coaches — at no cost. It also offers a variety of low-cost training programs from industry experts and qualified KSBDC consultants. Get help with creating a business plan, market research, compiling financial data, and more.
🏢 Commerce Lexington
| Our chamber of commerce is full of resources for area entrepreneurs + plays a huge role in the economic development — ahem, attracting new businesses.
- Connect with business professionals through luncheons, mixers, and other events .
- Leadership development opportunities
- Locate in Lexington — A guide for chamber-affiliated resources
💰 Community Ventures | This local nonprofit helps entrepreneurs get a jumpstart by providing any size loan — from $500 to $5 million. It also offers a six-session business builder course covering research, planning, marketing, and financials.
💸 Bluegrass Angels
| A volunteer-led group of experienced business leaders, Bluegrass Angels will help fund + mentor innovative startups. It also draws funding for local businesses from angel investors around the country.