Economic development blueprint unveiled to spur growth in Kentucky

Kentucky officials unveiled a new blueprint aimed at guiding continued economic development and growth across the state. The “Collaborative Blueprint created by and for Kentucky’s Economic Developers” outlines strategies and priorities identified through extensive outreach to partners across the Commonwealth.

In a press release announcing the plan, Governor Andy Beshear pointed to record private sector investment and major job creation projects in recent years. “But we recognize there is still so much more we can achieve as a state, and the Collaborative Blueprint will help us navigate our future,” Beshear said.

State economic development leaders partnered with the Kentucky Association for Economic Development (KAED) and consulting firm McKinsey & Co. to develop the blueprint. Input was gathered through surveys, interviews, and workshops held in communities across Kentucky.

The plan also takes into account existing efforts from various cabinet departments, the Kentucky Chamber’s “Kentucky’s Winning Strategy” plan, as well as local and regional work including the City of Louisville’s six-year strategic planning process.

KAED leaders said the collaborative process embodies their mission of partnerships for growth.

Sectors like automotive, manufacturing, natural assets, and business and financial services are identified as priorities in the blueprint along with “enablers” like workforce development, infrastructure improvements, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Officials stressed the blueprint is meant to align strategies statewide while still allowing flexibility for diverse local and regional needs. “Not every priority will be a perfect fit for every community, because every community has its own goals, challenges and advantages,” said Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel.

Find the “Collaborative Blueprint created by and for Kentucky’s Economic Developers” here.