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.