Today is the deadline for entrepreneurs and small business owners in our community to register for an exciting new opportunity that is set to offer hands-on training and the chance to compete for startup funding.
The ECDI Women’s Business Centers of Central Appalachia is hosting “Ignite Appalachia,” a free six-week entrepreneurship bootcamp and pitch competition running from April 23rd through May 28th.
Organizers say the program is designed for anyone with a business idea, as well as current small business owners looking to grow. Participants will receive guidance on building a business plan, connect with experienced mentors, and take part in weekly in-person sessions held in both Grayson and Olive Hill.
Sessions will include meetings at Commercial Bank of Grayson, along with other locations throughout the county as the program rotates between communities.
At the end of the six-week program, participants will have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas for a chance to receive five thousand dollars in seed funding to help launch or expand their venture.
Organizers say the goal is to support local entrepreneurship while strengthening the small business community across Eastern Kentucky through partnerships with regional organizations.
Those interested in applying should note that the deadline is set as the end of business today, and space in the program is limited. Applications can be completed online at LetsRepower.org or by scanning the QR code on the official event flyer.
Again, Ignite Appalachia will run from April 23rd through May 28th in Carter County.
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An evening of community, support, and awareness is planned in Carter County as Kentucky Christian University prepares to host a special event focused on helping families facing a serious illness.
The Kentucky Christian University Yancey School of Nursing will hold its annual Ozzyfest on Friday, May 1st, from 6 to 9 p.m. on the university’s campus.
Organizers say the event is centered around the message that no one fights alone, raising awareness and support for families affected by DIPG, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric brain cancer.
Ozzyfest is free and open to the community, and will feature a full evening of activities for all ages. Those attending can expect live music, food trucks, carnival-style games, inflatables, crafts, karaoke, and an online auction, along with other activities throughout the night.
The event is designed not only to bring people together, but also to provide encouragement and show support for families navigating difficult circumstances, while helping raise awareness about the impact of DIPG.
Organizers say the evening is a chance for the community to come together under one mission, standing alongside those affected and showing that support extends far beyond a single day.
Again, Ozzyfest will take place Friday, May 1st, from 6 to 9 p.m. on the campus of Kentucky Christian University, with the community invited to come out and “Fight Like Ozzy.”
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A pair of summer concerts are coming to Grayson as part of the 2026 Summer Concert Series at Kentucky Christian University.
The series will open Friday, June 5th at 7:00 p.m. with bluegrass and gospel favorites Dailey & Vincent, performing at Nash Chapel on the KCU campus.
Then on Thursday, July 16th at 7:00 p.m., contemporary Christian artist Patrick Mayberry will take the stage, joined by special guest Natalie Layne. That concert is part of the university’s “Summer in the Son” programming.
Tickets for both performances will be available beginning March 2nd. Proceeds from the concert series will go toward student scholarships at Kentucky Christian University.
For additional details, including ticket information, you can contact the university directly.