Seventh round of funding continues investment in business growth and community development
The Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA) has awarded two $2,500 mini-grants to local organizations, continuing its investment in projects that strengthen entrepreneurship, workforce development and quality of place across Somerset-Pulaski County.
This year’s SPEDA mini-grant recipients — Pivot KY LLC and the Somerset Big Band — represent two distinct yet complementary drivers of community growth: small-business expansion and arts and culture.
“Each round of our mini-grant program is about identifying opportunities where a relatively small investment can create meaningful, lasting impact,” SPEDA President and CEO Chris Girdler said. “This year, we made the intentional decision to focus on two projects that demonstrated potential to grow, scale and benefit the community in measurable ways. Both of these initiatives reflect the kind of forward-thinking, community-driven work that continues to position Somerset-Pulaski County as an economic leader in the Commonwealth.”
Pivot KY LLC: Expanding youth sports development through technology
Pivot KY LLC, a Somerset-based youth basketball training organization, will use its $2,500 mini-grant to purchase advanced training technology as part of its Pivot Advanced Skill Development Technology Initiative.
The project will fund the addition of a Dr. Dish Rebel+ shooting machine, allowing the organization to launch a structured Pivot Shooting Lab program that delivers high-volume, data-driven training sessions for local K-12 student-athletes. The initiative is expected to serve 60 to 80 youth within its first six months while increasing enrollment and creating additional part-time coaching opportunities.
By expanding access to advanced athletic training tools locally, the project helps reduce the need for families to travel outside the region while supporting the continued growth of a locally owned small business.
Founder Will Gary is a former collegiate basketball player with extensive experience in youth player development and structured training. Pivot KY LLC has already been actively operating structured basketball skills sessions in Somerset.
“We’re incredibly grateful to SPEDA for investing in Pivot and the future of youth development in our community,” Gary said. “This funding allows us to bring advanced training technology to Somerset and continue providing a high-level environment for athletes to grow both on and off the court. We’re excited about the impact this will have as we continue building something special here.”
Somerset Big Band: Strengthening arts, culture and economic impact
The Somerset Big Band will use its $2,500 mini-grant to support the development of a partnership and concert series at The Virginia, downtown Somerset’s live entertainment venue, designed to elevate the region’s arts and cultural offerings while contributing to downtown economic activity.
Through this partnership, Somerset Big Band will serve as the ensemble in residence at The Virginia, presenting three performances in its first year with the option to add more events in the future. The series debuts with its first performance at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 9, with a songwriter showcase featuring four regionally and nationally acclaimed artists — Elvie Shane, Cody Lee Meece, Spooky Fox and Brando Vanschoyck — performing alongside the full 21-member ensemble.
The grant funding will help offset costs associated with performances, guest artists and production, enabling the ensemble to expand its programming and strengthen partnerships within the community. The effort is designed to position Somerset as a regional hub for live music while supporting local businesses through increased visitation and engagement.
Founded with the mission of keeping America’s most important musical tradition alive, the Somerset Big Band has entertained audiences across Kentucky and the Lake Cumberland region for more than a decade. The ensemble includes professional musicians and community members from central and eastern Kentucky and has performed at festivals, corporate events and concert venues throughout the state.
“The Somerset Big Band is honored to receive this grant from SPEDA,” said Adam Hopper, Somerset Big Band board member. “Their contribution will go far in helping us to raise the artistic and cultural vision of Somerset and Pulaski County, as well as help us keep jazz alive for future generations.”
About the SPEDA mini-grant program
Launched to support entrepreneurship and community-driven projects, the SPEDA mini-grant program provides funding to for-profit businesses and initiatives in Somerset-Pulaski County with the best ideas for growth and innovation. It is made possible by effective management and sound financial oversight at SPEDA, which has helped the organization save thousands of dollars annually since its inception.
Now in its seventh round, the mini-grant program has supported a wide range of projects across multiple sectors — from small business expansion and workforce initiatives to tourism and cultural development — with each recipient contributing matching funds to maximize local investment. To date, SPEDA has invested $65,000 in local businesses and organizations through this program.
Mini-grant recipients are selected through a competitive application process, with projects evaluated on their potential to create lasting economic and community impact. Grant cycles typically open in the fall, with recipients selected in the spring.