Launch 606 is a free 8-week business bootcamp designed to help new and aspiring entrepreneurs in Appalachian Kentucky go from idea to a complete business plan — with financial projections and everything you need to start and fund your business. The program runs August 1 – September 30 and is delivered online in an online, self-paced format.

Through weekly sessions, mentorship, and expert-led workshops, businesses gain clarity, systems, and confidence to grow sustainably.

Launch 606 is built for people who are in the idea stage, just getting started, or have been in business for less than a year. It's also a great fit if you've got a side hustle you're ready to turn into a full-time business. If you're a new or aspiring entrepreneur in one of the 54 Appalachian Kentucky counties we serve, this program was made for you.

No. You don't need an existing business to apply. If you have an idea you're serious about, that's enough.

No. Launch 606 is completely free. 

The curriculum is self-paced and delivered online, so you can complete it on your own schedule. Each week, we also host a virtual live session where we bring in ecosystem partners and subject matter experts — people who've built businesses, worked with lenders, and know what it takes to succeed in this region. You can ask questions, get feedback, and connect with other participants.

A complete business plan, including financial projections — the kind you can actually use to start your business and apply for funding.

Participants who complete all coursework by September 30 can submit their business plan for grant funding consideration during the submission window of September 25–October 4. We anticipate making 10 grants of $2,500 each. Grant awards will be announced in late October.

Yes. All coursework and your completed business plan must be finished by September 30. If you stay on pace with the curriculum, you'll have plenty of time.

Applicants must be located in one of the 54 Appalachian Kentucky counties served by Invest 606.

Applications open July 10 and close July 24. The application is short — it's primarily a way for us to make sure you're in the right program and to collect some basic information. It should take about 10 minutes.

That's okay. If we think you'd be better served by a different program in the Invest 606 ecosystem — like Accelerate 606 for more established businesses — we'll let you know and point you in the right direction.

Launch 606 is part of Invest 606, a strategic initiative of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky. Questions? Reach out to our Director of Impact Investing, Jessica Bledsoe, at jessica@appalachianky.org