Invest 606, an accelerator based out of Eastern Kentucky, revealed its new cohort for 2023.
Nine businesses representing six counties from six industries were selected. In total, the businesses employ a total of 44 people and have generated a combined $730,000 in revenue with an average age of five years, according to a news release.
The primary requirement for eligibility into the cohort is that the business is based within the 606 area code — with the intent of bolstering the economy of Eastern Kentucky.
The cohort will meet at 1 p.m. on Jan. 21 in Hazard for a Demo Day to present their companies at the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky’s headquarters, located at 420 Main St.
The program provides cohort members with six months of training and services. The accelerator wraps up with a pitch event on April 15. Participants will be vying for a $15,000 grand prize, $8,000 second place prize and $4,000 third place prize. For more information, click here.
Invest 606 was founded in 2019 by tech entrepreneur Geoff Marietta. Its founding partners are the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky; the James Brown Foundation and the Foundation For Appalachian Kentucky.
Here are the nine finalists:
- Annie’s Frugal Finery, founded by Debbie Campbell: Located in Letcher County, Annie’s Frugal Finery is an upscale consignment store focused on helping surrounding communities and the environment.
- Atomic Raid Arcade, founded by Christopher Baker: Located in Letcher County, Atomic Raid Arcade is an arcade focused on family entertainment and the expansion of tourism related businesses.
- Bluegrass Crickets, founded by TJ Rayhill: Located in Casey County, Bluegrass Crickets raises crickets and other insects to meet the demands of fishermen, exotic pet owners, and for human consumption.
- Coal Country Candles, founded by Shannon and Randy Gabbard: Located in Perry County, Coal Country Candles offers hand-poured soy candles and tarts available in-store and online.
- Glory Gardens & Greenhouse, founded by Ashley DeBord: Located in Pulaski County, Glory Gardens & Greenhouse is an on-farm market which provides ways for families to learn how to grow their own food.
- Oak Tree Academy, founded by Terri Ratliff and Katina Collins: Located in Letcher County, Oak Tree Academy is an early childhood education center for children ages 1-6.
- Queen City Streams, founded by Nathan Lyttle: Located in Perry County, Queen City Streams hosts and broadcasts competitive esports events in the region.
- The Coffee Doc, founded by Charles and Jessica Caudill: Located in Boyd County, The Coffee Doc is a family-owned coffee business focused on bringing customers a daily dose of smiles one cup at a time.
- The Flower Lady, founded by Bethany Allen Located in Morgan County: The Flower Lady creates unique floral designs for weddings and other events.
