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Commerce Lex. Recognized Among Top Economic Development Groups by Site Selection Magazine
[Lexington, Kentucky] – For the second time in the last three years, Commerce Lexington Inc. is among the top economic development agencies in the nation, according to Site Selection magazine, which recently announced its Top 20 Investment Promotion Agencies in its May 2020 issue. Organizations named to the list are presented with the Mac Conway Award for Excellence in Economic Development, which recognizes national/regional economic development offices that were the most successful in attracting capital investment projects in 2019.
“Locations throughout the U.S. and in every region of the world compete aggressively for direct investment at home and from abroad,” says Site Selection Editor in Chief Mark Arend. “Those appearing on these rankings have demonstrated with actual project numbers and other measures that they have the location attributes most in demand by capital investors.”
Named in honor of Site Selection founding publisher H. McKinley "Mac" Conway, this year’s award winners have been determined by an index that examines corporate facility investment projects in U.S. metro areas as tracked by Site Selection’s proprietary Conway Projects database. Scores are awarded based on six criteria: total projects, total investment associated with those projects, and jobs associated with those projects. The remaining three criteria represent a per capita calculation of those same metrics.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO, Bob Quick, said, “Under the leadership of Gina Greathouse and the hard work of her team, Commerce Lexington’s economic development efforts have received multiple accolades from national and international sources over the years. This award also recognizes the commitment of so many people and companies throughout our region that assist our business recruitment and retention efforts. For the top metro areas across the nation, collaboration is key, and Lexington’s success in economic development can be credited to a strong partnership between the City of Lexington, Commerce Lexington Inc., and the University of Kentucky.”
Find out more about the awards on-line HERE.
[Lexington, Kentucky] – For the second time in the last three years, Commerce Lexington Inc. is among the top economic development agencies in the nation, according to Site Selection magazine, which recently announced its Top 20 Investment Promotion Agencies in its May 2020 issue. Organizations named to the list are presented with the Mac Conway Award for Excellence in Economic Development, which recognizes national/regional economic development offices that were the most successful in attracting capital investment projects in 2019.
“Locations throughout the U.S. and in every region of the world compete aggressively for direct investment at home and from abroad,” says Site Selection Editor in Chief Mark Arend. “Those appearing on these rankings have demonstrated with actual project numbers and other measures that they have the location attributes most in demand by capital investors.”
Named in honor of Site Selection founding publisher H. McKinley "Mac" Conway, this year’s award winners have been determined by an index that examines corporate facility investment projects in U.S. metro areas as tracked by Site Selection’s proprietary Conway Projects database. Scores are awarded based on six criteria: total projects, total investment associated with those projects, and jobs associated with those projects. The remaining three criteria represent a per capita calculation of those same metrics.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO, Bob Quick, said, “Under the leadership of Gina Greathouse and the hard work of her team, Commerce Lexington’s economic development efforts have received multiple accolades from national and international sources over the years. This award also recognizes the commitment of so many people and companies throughout our region that assist our business recruitment and retention efforts. For the top metro areas across the nation, collaboration is key, and Lexington’s success in economic development can be credited to a strong partnership between the City of Lexington, Commerce Lexington Inc., and the University of Kentucky.”
Find out more about the awards on-line HERE.
Shortened 2020 Legislative Session Concludes
The 2020 Kentucky state legislative session ended on April 15 at the Capitol in Frankfort amid unusual dynamics due to the COVID-19 crisis. Many issues were sidelined in the final days of the session due to an abbreviated legislative calendar. However, the General Assembly accomplished its Constitutionally charged mission - passing a state budget, at least for one year.
Before the coronavirus, lawmakers anticipated revenue increases from economic growth and were considering increases in funding for education and other investments. However, the budgeting process drastically changed as public health restrictions on businesses upended the state’s economy and projections. Legislators passed a one-year Executive Branch budget (HB 351) that is basically a continuation of the previous biennial budget funding levels for state agencies. This budget did not include any of the proposed funding increases for K-12 or higher education or raises for teachers and state employees that had previously been proposed by the Governor. It continues to fund K-12 at the current level, fully funds the actuarial required contribution for pensions, and provides for performance-based funding for state universities with a two percent stop loss in funding based on the current formula.
Legislators also passed a corresponding revenue bill (HB 352), which increases taxes on vaping products; the state’s Transportation Cabinet budget (HB 353); and the two-year road funding plan (HB 354). Declining gas prices and consumption levels are likely to negatively impact Road Fund revenues for the next biennium.
Although additional funding is placed in the state’s Rainy Day Fund, lawmakers felt it was too difficult to quantify revenue losses and impacts in mid-April. The General Assembly plans to readdress the budget in January 2021, if not sooner if the Governor calls a Special Session.
Lawmakers passed SB 150 to address some of the immediate needs related to the coronavirus. The bill codified the Governor’s Executive Orders; provides flexibility to schools with attendance, testing and other accountability measures; and provides liability protections to healthcare workers and businesses retooling to create public protection equipment.
Priority issues for the House and Senate Republican Majorities were left on the table, including public assistance reforms (HB1), immigration policies (SB1), and revising the process for selecting the Transportation Cabinet Secretary (SB 4).
Other hot button issues like medical marijuana, sports betting, increasing funding for infrastructure investments and a proposal to amend Kentucky’s Constitution to allow for the opportunity for more flexibility with local government tax codes, did not make it through the process.
SUCCESSES ACHIEVED FOR BUSINESS INTERESTS:
The General Assembly is adjourned until January 2021, unless Governor Beshear calls a special session to address issues related to COVID-19. For more information on specific issues, contact CLX’s Chief Policy Officer, Andi Johnson, at [email protected].
The 2020 Kentucky state legislative session ended on April 15 at the Capitol in Frankfort amid unusual dynamics due to the COVID-19 crisis. Many issues were sidelined in the final days of the session due to an abbreviated legislative calendar. However, the General Assembly accomplished its Constitutionally charged mission - passing a state budget, at least for one year.
Before the coronavirus, lawmakers anticipated revenue increases from economic growth and were considering increases in funding for education and other investments. However, the budgeting process drastically changed as public health restrictions on businesses upended the state’s economy and projections. Legislators passed a one-year Executive Branch budget (HB 351) that is basically a continuation of the previous biennial budget funding levels for state agencies. This budget did not include any of the proposed funding increases for K-12 or higher education or raises for teachers and state employees that had previously been proposed by the Governor. It continues to fund K-12 at the current level, fully funds the actuarial required contribution for pensions, and provides for performance-based funding for state universities with a two percent stop loss in funding based on the current formula.
Legislators also passed a corresponding revenue bill (HB 352), which increases taxes on vaping products; the state’s Transportation Cabinet budget (HB 353); and the two-year road funding plan (HB 354). Declining gas prices and consumption levels are likely to negatively impact Road Fund revenues for the next biennium.
Although additional funding is placed in the state’s Rainy Day Fund, lawmakers felt it was too difficult to quantify revenue losses and impacts in mid-April. The General Assembly plans to readdress the budget in January 2021, if not sooner if the Governor calls a Special Session.
Lawmakers passed SB 150 to address some of the immediate needs related to the coronavirus. The bill codified the Governor’s Executive Orders; provides flexibility to schools with attendance, testing and other accountability measures; and provides liability protections to healthcare workers and businesses retooling to create public protection equipment.
Priority issues for the House and Senate Republican Majorities were left on the table, including public assistance reforms (HB1), immigration policies (SB1), and revising the process for selecting the Transportation Cabinet Secretary (SB 4).
Other hot button issues like medical marijuana, sports betting, increasing funding for infrastructure investments and a proposal to amend Kentucky’s Constitution to allow for the opportunity for more flexibility with local government tax codes, did not make it through the process.
SUCCESSES ACHIEVED FOR BUSINESS INTERESTS:
- Recovery Through Employment: SB 191 includes language requiring the state to develop a framework and resources to support employers that voluntarily implement an employer-facilitated treatment program for substance abuse. It also encourages the retention and hiring of employees struggling with substance abuse by providing some liability protections for fully compliant employers with the framework.
- Criminal Justice Reforms: HB 327 allows for the automatic expungement for charges that are dismissed or acquittals with prejudice. HB 284 reduces probation time when the individual completes education, training or treatment programs.
- Economic Development: HB 415 allows for the producers of beer, wine and spirits to directly ship to consumers in Kentucky. SB 99 also provides various reforms to help distillers, brewers and small farm wineries.
- Education: HB 312 helps address academic needs of foster kids by improving communication and information sharing between schools and caseworkers.
- Healthcare: The General Assembly also raised the age to purchase tobacco to 21, putting Kentucky in-line with federal law.
The General Assembly is adjourned until January 2021, unless Governor Beshear calls a special session to address issues related to COVID-19. For more information on specific issues, contact CLX’s Chief Policy Officer, Andi Johnson, at [email protected].
Foreign Direct Investment in the Bluegrass
“It is important that economic development leaders understand the innate advantages of attracting a
foreign-owned firm versus an otherwise-identical domestic firm…”
- Ryan Donahue & Brad McDearman, Brookings Institute, Metropolitan Policy Program
Economic Development Organizations at the local, regional, state, and national levels have long been aware of the advantages that host communities receive from foreign direct investment (FDI). According to the Brookings Institute, foreign-owned companies pay 20 percent more in wages than peer, domestic companies and invest more in R&D despite representing only 5 percent of employment. This is due in part to their strength and concentration in advanced industries . Beyond these direct benefits, FDI can bring indirect benefits by establishing an industry cluster through attracting suppliers to the area and even by attracting companies with similar, foreign ownership across other industries.
Kentuckians need look no further for an example of the impacts of FDI than Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky in Georgetown. However, Toyota isn’t the only example of FDI in the Bluegrass Region. Our region is the beneficiary of a wide range of foreign-owned companies. In fact, according to data from the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, the 8-county Bluegrass Region is home to 95 foreign-owned facilities representing 16 countries . Lexington alone contains 33 foreign-owned facilities from 13 countries including companies like Webasto Roof Systems from Germany, CLARK Material Handling Company from the Republic of Korea, and Florida Tile from Italy. For more information on international companies in Lexington, visit www.locateinlexington.com.
“It is important that economic development leaders understand the innate advantages of attracting a
foreign-owned firm versus an otherwise-identical domestic firm…”
- Ryan Donahue & Brad McDearman, Brookings Institute, Metropolitan Policy Program
Economic Development Organizations at the local, regional, state, and national levels have long been aware of the advantages that host communities receive from foreign direct investment (FDI). According to the Brookings Institute, foreign-owned companies pay 20 percent more in wages than peer, domestic companies and invest more in R&D despite representing only 5 percent of employment. This is due in part to their strength and concentration in advanced industries . Beyond these direct benefits, FDI can bring indirect benefits by establishing an industry cluster through attracting suppliers to the area and even by attracting companies with similar, foreign ownership across other industries.
Kentuckians need look no further for an example of the impacts of FDI than Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky in Georgetown. However, Toyota isn’t the only example of FDI in the Bluegrass Region. Our region is the beneficiary of a wide range of foreign-owned companies. In fact, according to data from the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, the 8-county Bluegrass Region is home to 95 foreign-owned facilities representing 16 countries . Lexington alone contains 33 foreign-owned facilities from 13 countries including companies like Webasto Roof Systems from Germany, CLARK Material Handling Company from the Republic of Korea, and Florida Tile from Italy. For more information on international companies in Lexington, visit www.locateinlexington.com.
Commerce Lexington Inc. Announces 2020 Public Policy Statements Ahead of 60-Day Legislative Session Starting in Early January
Commerce Lexington Inc. is proud to work on behalf of its members and the Central Kentucky business community as an effective public policy voice at all levels of government to improve Kentucky’s business climate. Throughout the year, Commerce Lexington’s Public Policy Council researches, analyzes and discusses important policy issues from the perspective of how it may impact the Central Kentucky business community. Then, the group develops and recommends advocacy position statements, which guide the organization’s advocacy efforts for the year.
Please take a few minutes to review the 2020 LEGISLATIVE FOCUS to learn about issues Commerce Lexington Inc. will be tracking on behalf of the business community this year at the local, state and federal levels of government.
In January, state lawmakers return to Frankfort for the 60-day Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly. The priority issue will be crafting the next two-year state budget and road fund plan for transportation infrastructure projects. Despite revenue growth and a strong economy, lawmakers anticipate state revenue projections to fall short of the required budget obligations (pension systems, Medicaid, corrections) over the biennium. This outlook makes the budgeting process difficult as lawmakers work to ensure a structurally balanced budget and determine funding priorities. Governor Andy Beshear must submit his budget proposal to lawmakers by late January.
Other issues expected to be priorities include funding for school safety, proposals related to sports betting, modernizing the state’s infrastructure funding model, continued tax reform to improve competitiveness and provide local governments with funding flexibility, criminal justice system reforms to improve workforce participation, career readiness initiatives, and increasing taxes and regulations on vaping products.
At this time, it is unclear if reforms to the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System (KTRS) will be on the table. With more than $40 billion in unfunded liabilities, Kentucky has one of the worst pension systems in the nation. The actuarily required contributions to the systems total $3.3 billion – nearly 30 percent of the total state budget. Local governments across the commonwealth are also facing massive required pension payments. These obligations are crippling the ability of local governments to meet essential service needs or make investments in other critical areas.
Commerce Lexington urges its members to stay connected throughout 2020 on policy issues. Regular email updates will be provided to members throughout the Legislative Session and the year to keep businesses updated on what’s happening in City Hall, Frankfort and Washington, D.C. and the impact to Central Kentucky’s economy. If you have questions, need assistance with a policy issue, or would like to get involved with advocacy efforts, contact Andi Johnson, Chief Policy Officer and Director of Regional Engagement, at (859) 226-1614.
Commerce Lexington Inc. is proud to work on behalf of its members and the Central Kentucky business community as an effective public policy voice at all levels of government to improve Kentucky’s business climate. Throughout the year, Commerce Lexington’s Public Policy Council researches, analyzes and discusses important policy issues from the perspective of how it may impact the Central Kentucky business community. Then, the group develops and recommends advocacy position statements, which guide the organization’s advocacy efforts for the year.
Please take a few minutes to review the 2020 LEGISLATIVE FOCUS to learn about issues Commerce Lexington Inc. will be tracking on behalf of the business community this year at the local, state and federal levels of government.
In January, state lawmakers return to Frankfort for the 60-day Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly. The priority issue will be crafting the next two-year state budget and road fund plan for transportation infrastructure projects. Despite revenue growth and a strong economy, lawmakers anticipate state revenue projections to fall short of the required budget obligations (pension systems, Medicaid, corrections) over the biennium. This outlook makes the budgeting process difficult as lawmakers work to ensure a structurally balanced budget and determine funding priorities. Governor Andy Beshear must submit his budget proposal to lawmakers by late January.
Other issues expected to be priorities include funding for school safety, proposals related to sports betting, modernizing the state’s infrastructure funding model, continued tax reform to improve competitiveness and provide local governments with funding flexibility, criminal justice system reforms to improve workforce participation, career readiness initiatives, and increasing taxes and regulations on vaping products.
At this time, it is unclear if reforms to the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System (KTRS) will be on the table. With more than $40 billion in unfunded liabilities, Kentucky has one of the worst pension systems in the nation. The actuarily required contributions to the systems total $3.3 billion – nearly 30 percent of the total state budget. Local governments across the commonwealth are also facing massive required pension payments. These obligations are crippling the ability of local governments to meet essential service needs or make investments in other critical areas.
Commerce Lexington urges its members to stay connected throughout 2020 on policy issues. Regular email updates will be provided to members throughout the Legislative Session and the year to keep businesses updated on what’s happening in City Hall, Frankfort and Washington, D.C. and the impact to Central Kentucky’s economy. If you have questions, need assistance with a policy issue, or would like to get involved with advocacy efforts, contact Andi Johnson, Chief Policy Officer and Director of Regional Engagement, at (859) 226-1614.
31 eAchievers or the top performing startups in Central, were recognized at SPARK's Who Got the Money event. (Photo by Mark Mahan, Mahan Multimedia)
SPARK recognizes entrepreneurial community for creating 260 jobs and raising $74.4 million in investment at Who Got the Money event
LEXINGTON, KY. (Nov 20, 2019) – On Tuesday, SPARK, a Bluegrass Business Development Partnership (BBDP) initiative, held its annual entrepreneurial celebration and announced that the Central Kentucky entrepreneurial community created 260 new jobs and raised $74.4 million in capital funds in Fiscal Year 2019.
The companies, employing a total of 992 people, reported an average salary of $71,700 for full-time jobs. They represent industry sectors in biotechnology, AgTech, advanced manufacturing, e-commerce, independent game development, IT and software development, energy technologies and business services. This further demonstrates Lexington’s position as a leading location for high-growth and high-wage technology-based jobs.
“Once again we are demonstrating that Lexington is a great investment,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Driven by University of Kentucky brainpower and a growing community of entrepreneurs, our economy continues to expand in sectors that signal a bright future.”
“The startup business sector in Lexington is strong and growing,” said Eric Hartman, associate director for new ventures at the University of Kentucky Office of Technology Commercialization. “The sector has reached critical mass over the past few years and is positioned to be a driver of growth for Lexington and Central Kentucky.”
“With the assets of the BDDP, the Bluegrass Angels and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, Lexington’s startup community has thrived in 2019 and is poised for success in 2020,” said Bob Quick, CCE, the president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “Commerce Lexington Inc. has enjoyed working with our startup ecosystem in 2019, and we are excited to partner with them in 2020.”
SPARK also recognized recipients of the Lexington eAchievers Award for excellence in entrepreneurship. Thirty-one companies in the Bluegrass Region were honored with the eAchiever award for receiving at least $1 million dollars in funding and/or creating five new full-time jobs in Fiscal Year 2019, based on self-reported data. The UK Office of Technology Commercialization and Commerce Lexington Inc. conduct an annual survey of early-stage companies located in Central Kentucky. The results are based upon self-reported data for July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. This year 90 companies responded to the survey.
The companies that received the eAchiever award include: AgTech Scientific; APAX Software Development, LLC; AVAIL; Badger Technologies; BlueFrame Technology, LLC; Construction Industry Resources; Corrisoft, LLC; Engi-Mat Co.; Equine Diagnostic Solutions LLC; Flywire Cameras; Fooji, Inc.; Global Parametrics; Gun Media; Helios Aerosystems LLC; Hippo Manager Software, Inc.; Identify3D; Key Investment Solutions; MEP Equine Solutions; MosquitoMate, Inc.; Naprogenix; NX Development Corporation; OmniLife; Orthopeutics/Intralink-Spine, Inc.; PowerTech Water; Signal Solutions; Smart Farm Systems, Inc.; Space Tango; Summit Biosciences, Inc.; The Pilot Farm; Xact Communications and Xooker.
SPARK also gave the eAcquired award to SIS LLC, which is a cloud and managed services company and was acquired by Converge Technology Solutions. The goal of most venture backed startups is to exit via acquisition. An acquisition event is a milestone achievement that validates the startup team, technology, proven product-market fit, traction and disruptive potential. Acquisition generally provides return of capital to investors, financial windfall to founders and key team members, taxable income and wealth creation in Kentucky.
In addition to the eAchiever and eAcquired awards, the BBDP presented the Harvey Award, which is given annually to an individual or organization that has made a significant impact on the entrepreneurial community. The 2019 recipient of this award was the Bluegrass Angels, which is an investor group that was founded in 2004 by local investors and community leaders who believed that early state-investments could provide a meaningful return for investors while spurring economic growth. Individual members of the organization volunteer their time and expertise to review potential investments and assist entrepreneurs.
SPARK also gave an inaugural Female Founded Startup of the Year award. This award will be given annually to a female founder of a Lexington startup that has inspired us through their diligent entrepreneurial pursuits. The 2019 recipient of this award was Karen Dobson of MosquitoMate, Inc., which is a Lexington-based biotech company and a spinout of the University of Kentucky providing a product that is a nontoxic, non-GMO pesticide.
SPARK has a mission to provide a forum which fosters sharing between entrepreneurs, businesses, investors and professional services providers. Over the last year, SPARK planned and sponsored luncheons focused on the entrepreneurial community in addition to networking events, business showcases and pitch competitions. The group is managed by the City of Lexington, Commerce Lexington Inc. and the UK Office of Technology Commercialization.
For information about the event and SPARK, please visit www.sparklex.org.
LEXINGTON, KY. (Nov 20, 2019) – On Tuesday, SPARK, a Bluegrass Business Development Partnership (BBDP) initiative, held its annual entrepreneurial celebration and announced that the Central Kentucky entrepreneurial community created 260 new jobs and raised $74.4 million in capital funds in Fiscal Year 2019.
The companies, employing a total of 992 people, reported an average salary of $71,700 for full-time jobs. They represent industry sectors in biotechnology, AgTech, advanced manufacturing, e-commerce, independent game development, IT and software development, energy technologies and business services. This further demonstrates Lexington’s position as a leading location for high-growth and high-wage technology-based jobs.
“Once again we are demonstrating that Lexington is a great investment,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “Driven by University of Kentucky brainpower and a growing community of entrepreneurs, our economy continues to expand in sectors that signal a bright future.”
“The startup business sector in Lexington is strong and growing,” said Eric Hartman, associate director for new ventures at the University of Kentucky Office of Technology Commercialization. “The sector has reached critical mass over the past few years and is positioned to be a driver of growth for Lexington and Central Kentucky.”
“With the assets of the BDDP, the Bluegrass Angels and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, Lexington’s startup community has thrived in 2019 and is poised for success in 2020,” said Bob Quick, CCE, the president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “Commerce Lexington Inc. has enjoyed working with our startup ecosystem in 2019, and we are excited to partner with them in 2020.”
SPARK also recognized recipients of the Lexington eAchievers Award for excellence in entrepreneurship. Thirty-one companies in the Bluegrass Region were honored with the eAchiever award for receiving at least $1 million dollars in funding and/or creating five new full-time jobs in Fiscal Year 2019, based on self-reported data. The UK Office of Technology Commercialization and Commerce Lexington Inc. conduct an annual survey of early-stage companies located in Central Kentucky. The results are based upon self-reported data for July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019. This year 90 companies responded to the survey.
The companies that received the eAchiever award include: AgTech Scientific; APAX Software Development, LLC; AVAIL; Badger Technologies; BlueFrame Technology, LLC; Construction Industry Resources; Corrisoft, LLC; Engi-Mat Co.; Equine Diagnostic Solutions LLC; Flywire Cameras; Fooji, Inc.; Global Parametrics; Gun Media; Helios Aerosystems LLC; Hippo Manager Software, Inc.; Identify3D; Key Investment Solutions; MEP Equine Solutions; MosquitoMate, Inc.; Naprogenix; NX Development Corporation; OmniLife; Orthopeutics/Intralink-Spine, Inc.; PowerTech Water; Signal Solutions; Smart Farm Systems, Inc.; Space Tango; Summit Biosciences, Inc.; The Pilot Farm; Xact Communications and Xooker.
SPARK also gave the eAcquired award to SIS LLC, which is a cloud and managed services company and was acquired by Converge Technology Solutions. The goal of most venture backed startups is to exit via acquisition. An acquisition event is a milestone achievement that validates the startup team, technology, proven product-market fit, traction and disruptive potential. Acquisition generally provides return of capital to investors, financial windfall to founders and key team members, taxable income and wealth creation in Kentucky.
In addition to the eAchiever and eAcquired awards, the BBDP presented the Harvey Award, which is given annually to an individual or organization that has made a significant impact on the entrepreneurial community. The 2019 recipient of this award was the Bluegrass Angels, which is an investor group that was founded in 2004 by local investors and community leaders who believed that early state-investments could provide a meaningful return for investors while spurring economic growth. Individual members of the organization volunteer their time and expertise to review potential investments and assist entrepreneurs.
SPARK also gave an inaugural Female Founded Startup of the Year award. This award will be given annually to a female founder of a Lexington startup that has inspired us through their diligent entrepreneurial pursuits. The 2019 recipient of this award was Karen Dobson of MosquitoMate, Inc., which is a Lexington-based biotech company and a spinout of the University of Kentucky providing a product that is a nontoxic, non-GMO pesticide.
SPARK has a mission to provide a forum which fosters sharing between entrepreneurs, businesses, investors and professional services providers. Over the last year, SPARK planned and sponsored luncheons focused on the entrepreneurial community in addition to networking events, business showcases and pitch competitions. The group is managed by the City of Lexington, Commerce Lexington Inc. and the UK Office of Technology Commercialization.
For information about the event and SPARK, please visit www.sparklex.org.
A Letter to Commerce Lexington Inc. Members
FCPS Safety Plan is Paramount to Student Success, School Safety
32 Current & Past Commerce Lexington Inc. Board Chairs Sign On to Support FCPS Safety Investment Plan & Nickel Tax Increase
Commerce Lexington Inc. has held a longstanding belief that education and the success of our students go hand in hand with creating a vibrant city and healthy economy. Having a highly-educated and well-trained workforce is essential to attracting new business and retaining existing business and industry. As such, Commerce Lexington Inc. believes it is imperative to do what we can as a community to support our youth by providing them with all the resources at our disposal to ensure all students are successful - whether it’s supplies, mentoring, new and improved facilities, and of course a safe environment.
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Executive Board supports Fayette County Public Schools’ ten-point School Safety Investment Plan, which is based on national best practices and will make Lexington schools among the best prepared in the country. The plan is a result of more than four months of study and discussion from hundreds of community members across all areas of the school district.
The comprehensive plan puts our school district on the cutting edge of safety and includes more law enforcement officers, more mental health professionals, secure entrances to every school, expanded emergency planning and safety training, increased social media monitoring, metal detectors in every middle and high school, and the availability of adolescent assessment and health services for students in grades six through 12.
Although SEEK per pupil funding in Kentucky was increased overall during the 2018 General Assembly, the formula allocation results in a loss of $5.1 million for FCPS next year. Additionally, cuts to state funding for transportation, textbooks and professional development resources also negatively impact FCPS revenues. To protect students in the classroom, the school board has already cut more than $4.4 million from the Central Office to cover that deficit. Meanwhile, the FCPS existing emergency contingency fund would cover less than six weeks of expenses.
No one wants to pay more taxes, especially businesses. However, we believe that the nickel property tax increase is a small price to pay to protect our children. We see this as an investment in our future workforce and our economy. As the district continues to grow, this plan will go a long way to ensure that students, teachers and administrators can focus on what they should be – preparing our kids to be productive citizens.
Please take a moment to review the following informational documents.
FCPS 10-Point Safety Plan | District Safety Advisory Council Report | Safety Plan FAQ
Sincerely,
FCPS Safety Plan is Paramount to Student Success, School Safety
32 Current & Past Commerce Lexington Inc. Board Chairs Sign On to Support FCPS Safety Investment Plan & Nickel Tax Increase
Commerce Lexington Inc. has held a longstanding belief that education and the success of our students go hand in hand with creating a vibrant city and healthy economy. Having a highly-educated and well-trained workforce is essential to attracting new business and retaining existing business and industry. As such, Commerce Lexington Inc. believes it is imperative to do what we can as a community to support our youth by providing them with all the resources at our disposal to ensure all students are successful - whether it’s supplies, mentoring, new and improved facilities, and of course a safe environment.
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Executive Board supports Fayette County Public Schools’ ten-point School Safety Investment Plan, which is based on national best practices and will make Lexington schools among the best prepared in the country. The plan is a result of more than four months of study and discussion from hundreds of community members across all areas of the school district.
The comprehensive plan puts our school district on the cutting edge of safety and includes more law enforcement officers, more mental health professionals, secure entrances to every school, expanded emergency planning and safety training, increased social media monitoring, metal detectors in every middle and high school, and the availability of adolescent assessment and health services for students in grades six through 12.
Although SEEK per pupil funding in Kentucky was increased overall during the 2018 General Assembly, the formula allocation results in a loss of $5.1 million for FCPS next year. Additionally, cuts to state funding for transportation, textbooks and professional development resources also negatively impact FCPS revenues. To protect students in the classroom, the school board has already cut more than $4.4 million from the Central Office to cover that deficit. Meanwhile, the FCPS existing emergency contingency fund would cover less than six weeks of expenses.
No one wants to pay more taxes, especially businesses. However, we believe that the nickel property tax increase is a small price to pay to protect our children. We see this as an investment in our future workforce and our economy. As the district continues to grow, this plan will go a long way to ensure that students, teachers and administrators can focus on what they should be – preparing our kids to be productive citizens.
Please take a moment to review the following informational documents.
FCPS 10-Point Safety Plan | District Safety Advisory Council Report | Safety Plan FAQ
Sincerely,
Karen S. Hill Chief Operating Officer/Chief Nursing Officer Baptist Health Lexington 2018 Commerce Lexington Inc. Board Chair |
Jeff Koonce
Market President WesBanco Commerce Lexington Inc. Chair-Elect |
CO-SIGNED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. PAST BOARD CHAIRS:
Ann Bakhaus
Mira Ball
Carla Blanton
Luther Deaton
Paula Hanson
Bob Hewett
Jim Host
Guy Huguelet
Jeri Isbell
Joe Kelly
Bill Lear
Wayne Martin
Terry McBrayer
Kim Menke
Herb Miller
Harold Mullis
Danny Murphy
Foster Ockerman, Sr.
Harry T. Richart III
Nick Rowe
Ken Sagan
Bob Slone
Mary Ellen Slone
Doug Steele
Alan Stein
Kit Stolen
Bill Thomason
Darby Turner
Woodford Webb
Mike Whitley
Ann Bakhaus
Mira Ball
Carla Blanton
Luther Deaton
Paula Hanson
Bob Hewett
Jim Host
Guy Huguelet
Jeri Isbell
Joe Kelly
Bill Lear
Wayne Martin
Terry McBrayer
Kim Menke
Herb Miller
Harold Mullis
Danny Murphy
Foster Ockerman, Sr.
Harry T. Richart III
Nick Rowe
Ken Sagan
Bob Slone
Mary Ellen Slone
Doug Steele
Alan Stein
Kit Stolen
Bill Thomason
Darby Turner
Woodford Webb
Mike Whitley
Stat of the Month: Lexington MSA Ranks Among Most Diverse Economies, According to Emsi
This year, Lexington ranked 9th out of 382 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in industry diversity, according to an Emsi report. Emsi is a labor market analysis and economic modeling firm. This report measures distribution of total employment for MSA’s amongst 12 major industry clusters. They find that Lexington’s employment is more evenly distributed between these 12 industries than the typical metro area. Lexington’s top four industries are capital-intensive manufacturing, distributive services, higher education, and healthcare. Each of these industries represents between six percent to eight percent of Lexington’s total employment.
What does this mean for Lexington? Cities that rank high in industry diversity are more resilient to economic pressures. Resilient cities are not as greatly impacted by economic recessions, as measured by the unemployment rate, and tend tFo recover quicker from recessions than undiversified areas. This ranking is further illustrated by Lexington’s 2014 ranking by WalletHub as the #12 Best Post-Recession Recovery. Find out more about this study ON-LINE HERE.
This year, Lexington ranked 9th out of 382 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) in industry diversity, according to an Emsi report. Emsi is a labor market analysis and economic modeling firm. This report measures distribution of total employment for MSA’s amongst 12 major industry clusters. They find that Lexington’s employment is more evenly distributed between these 12 industries than the typical metro area. Lexington’s top four industries are capital-intensive manufacturing, distributive services, higher education, and healthcare. Each of these industries represents between six percent to eight percent of Lexington’s total employment.
What does this mean for Lexington? Cities that rank high in industry diversity are more resilient to economic pressures. Resilient cities are not as greatly impacted by economic recessions, as measured by the unemployment rate, and tend tFo recover quicker from recessions than undiversified areas. This ranking is further illustrated by Lexington’s 2014 ranking by WalletHub as the #12 Best Post-Recession Recovery. Find out more about this study ON-LINE HERE.
Class of 21 Completes 2017-18 Leadership Central Kentucky Program
The Leadership Central Kentucky program recently recognized its newest class of regional leaders during a graduation reception in Woodford County at The Kentucky Castle on May 16. Having completed its 18th year, Leadership Central Kentucky’s mission is “to educate to lead, connect, and know our communities.”
Presented by LG&E and KU Energy, participants attended day sessions each month within an eight-county region that includes Bourbon, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Jessamine, Madison, Scott, and Woodford counties. Class members studied community and regional topics such as transportation, education, economic development, quality of life, public advocacy, and agri-tourism. The topics are covered by knowledgeable speakers and panels, tours, interactive exercises and class discussions.
Leadership Central Kentucky program director Amy Carrington said, “Leadership Central Kentucky is designed to help participants gain a new understanding of how each county’s actions impact the others, and it’s our hope that these graduates will realize that our region will have a better opportunity to reach its highest potential through collaboration and being informed about key issues.”
Applications for the 2018-19 Leadership Central Kentucky program are available ON-LINE NOW at www.leadershipcentralkentucky.com or by contacting Amy Carrington at (859) 226-1610 or [email protected].
2017-18 Leadership Central Kentucky Graduates:
Christina Briggs, UK HealthCare
Christy Brown, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Shelby Calvin, Thrivent Financial
Audrey Cawman, U.S. Bank
Mike Flynn, Bank of Lexington
Ramsey Flynn, Bluegrass Community & Technical College
Jim Gaddis, LightSculptor, Inc.
Chad Gallas, Omni Architects
Virginia Graves, Graves Shepard Consulting LLC
Michael Hart, Inside Out Nutrition
Sara Hochgesang, KORT Physical Therapy
Mauritia Kamer, Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
Susan Lancho, Kentucky American Water
Charles Mehanna, LG&E and KU Services Company
Eli Mertens, TravelHost of the Bluegrass
Patrese Nesbitt, Eastern Kentucky University
Mark Reynolds, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
Lisa Smith, Columbia Gas of Kentucky
Alicia Sneed, Law Office of Alicia A. Sneed
Don Vizi, Woodford County Chamber of Commerce
Mike Woods, Kentucky Utilities Co.
The Leadership Central Kentucky program recently recognized its newest class of regional leaders during a graduation reception in Woodford County at The Kentucky Castle on May 16. Having completed its 18th year, Leadership Central Kentucky’s mission is “to educate to lead, connect, and know our communities.”
Presented by LG&E and KU Energy, participants attended day sessions each month within an eight-county region that includes Bourbon, Clark, Fayette, Franklin, Jessamine, Madison, Scott, and Woodford counties. Class members studied community and regional topics such as transportation, education, economic development, quality of life, public advocacy, and agri-tourism. The topics are covered by knowledgeable speakers and panels, tours, interactive exercises and class discussions.
Leadership Central Kentucky program director Amy Carrington said, “Leadership Central Kentucky is designed to help participants gain a new understanding of how each county’s actions impact the others, and it’s our hope that these graduates will realize that our region will have a better opportunity to reach its highest potential through collaboration and being informed about key issues.”
Applications for the 2018-19 Leadership Central Kentucky program are available ON-LINE NOW at www.leadershipcentralkentucky.com or by contacting Amy Carrington at (859) 226-1610 or [email protected].
2017-18 Leadership Central Kentucky Graduates:
Christina Briggs, UK HealthCare
Christy Brown, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Shelby Calvin, Thrivent Financial
Audrey Cawman, U.S. Bank
Mike Flynn, Bank of Lexington
Ramsey Flynn, Bluegrass Community & Technical College
Jim Gaddis, LightSculptor, Inc.
Chad Gallas, Omni Architects
Virginia Graves, Graves Shepard Consulting LLC
Michael Hart, Inside Out Nutrition
Sara Hochgesang, KORT Physical Therapy
Mauritia Kamer, Steptoe & Johnson PLLC
Susan Lancho, Kentucky American Water
Charles Mehanna, LG&E and KU Services Company
Eli Mertens, TravelHost of the Bluegrass
Patrese Nesbitt, Eastern Kentucky University
Mark Reynolds, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
Lisa Smith, Columbia Gas of Kentucky
Alicia Sneed, Law Office of Alicia A. Sneed
Don Vizi, Woodford County Chamber of Commerce
Mike Woods, Kentucky Utilities Co.
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Commerce Lexington Inc. Recognized Among Top Economic Development Agencies by Site Selection
Site Selection magazine recently released its annual rankings of the Top Investment Promotion Agencies, which will appear in its May 2018 issue. There are 5,000-plus economic development agencies in the U.S., and Commerce Lexington Inc. was one of only fifteen economic development organizations to be presented with the Mac Conway Award for Excellence in Economic Development, which recognizes national/regional economic development offices that were the most successful in attracting capital investment projects in 2017.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President & CEO, Bob Quick, said, “This award is not only a testament to the professionalism and effective leadership of Gina Greathouse and her team, but it also recognizes the hard work of so many people and businesses throughout our community who assist our team and provide great service to companies relocating or expanding here. Here in Lexington, it is a true collaborative effort when it comes to economic development, and without our partners at the City of Lexington and University of Kentucky, we wouldn’t be as successful.”
Site Selection President and Publisher Adam Jones-Kelley said, “This magazine, and this section in particular, looked only at corporate investment facts and figures, at economic growth and job creation, and at those corners of the world that enjoyed the most success on those metrics alone. For the global economy, 2017 was a very good year indeed. We congratulate the companies whose growth fueled this success.”
“Locations throughout the U.S. and in every region of the world compete aggressively for direct investment at home and from abroad,” said Site Selection Editor-in-Chief Mark Arend. “Those appearing on these rankings have demonstrated with actual project numbers and other measures that they have the location attributes most in demand by capital investors.”
The award is named in honor of Site Selection’s founding publisher H. McKinley "Mac" Conway. To compile the rankings, the methodology is based on an index of data from the proprietary Conway Projects Database (which tracks private-sector facility projects worldwide) and several other global economic data sources.
Site Selection’s May 2018 issue also recognized the most competitive state-level economic development groups, through its Prosperity Cup Awards. As a state, Kentucky came in 8th this year, which was up from 9th in the 2017 list. Read the full announcement on-line at https://siteselection.com/press/releases/2018B2I.html. Find out more about Commerce Lexington’s economic development efforts at www.LocateinLexington.com.
Mac Conway Awards for Top Economic Development Organizations:
Charleston (S.C.) Regional Development Alliance
Charlotte Regional Partnership
Columbus 2020
Commerce Lexington Inc.
Dallas Regional Chamber/Fort Worth Chamber
Detroit Regional Chamber
Greater Des Moines Partnership
Greater Houston Partnership
Greater Louisville, Inc./Louisville Forward
Greater Phoenix Economic Council
Kansas City Area Development Council
Metro Atlanta Chamber
REDI Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky TRI-Ed
Regional Growth Partnership (Northwest Ohio)
World Business Chicago
Site Selection magazine recently released its annual rankings of the Top Investment Promotion Agencies, which will appear in its May 2018 issue. There are 5,000-plus economic development agencies in the U.S., and Commerce Lexington Inc. was one of only fifteen economic development organizations to be presented with the Mac Conway Award for Excellence in Economic Development, which recognizes national/regional economic development offices that were the most successful in attracting capital investment projects in 2017.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President & CEO, Bob Quick, said, “This award is not only a testament to the professionalism and effective leadership of Gina Greathouse and her team, but it also recognizes the hard work of so many people and businesses throughout our community who assist our team and provide great service to companies relocating or expanding here. Here in Lexington, it is a true collaborative effort when it comes to economic development, and without our partners at the City of Lexington and University of Kentucky, we wouldn’t be as successful.”
Site Selection President and Publisher Adam Jones-Kelley said, “This magazine, and this section in particular, looked only at corporate investment facts and figures, at economic growth and job creation, and at those corners of the world that enjoyed the most success on those metrics alone. For the global economy, 2017 was a very good year indeed. We congratulate the companies whose growth fueled this success.”
“Locations throughout the U.S. and in every region of the world compete aggressively for direct investment at home and from abroad,” said Site Selection Editor-in-Chief Mark Arend. “Those appearing on these rankings have demonstrated with actual project numbers and other measures that they have the location attributes most in demand by capital investors.”
The award is named in honor of Site Selection’s founding publisher H. McKinley "Mac" Conway. To compile the rankings, the methodology is based on an index of data from the proprietary Conway Projects Database (which tracks private-sector facility projects worldwide) and several other global economic data sources.
Site Selection’s May 2018 issue also recognized the most competitive state-level economic development groups, through its Prosperity Cup Awards. As a state, Kentucky came in 8th this year, which was up from 9th in the 2017 list. Read the full announcement on-line at https://siteselection.com/press/releases/2018B2I.html. Find out more about Commerce Lexington’s economic development efforts at www.LocateinLexington.com.
Mac Conway Awards for Top Economic Development Organizations:
Charleston (S.C.) Regional Development Alliance
Charlotte Regional Partnership
Columbus 2020
Commerce Lexington Inc.
Dallas Regional Chamber/Fort Worth Chamber
Detroit Regional Chamber
Greater Des Moines Partnership
Greater Houston Partnership
Greater Louisville, Inc./Louisville Forward
Greater Phoenix Economic Council
Kansas City Area Development Council
Metro Atlanta Chamber
REDI Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky TRI-Ed
Regional Growth Partnership (Northwest Ohio)
World Business Chicago
Natalie Shepard Named Partnership Manager for CLX’s Business and Education Network (BEN)
Natalie Shepard has been named as partnership manager of Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Business & Education Network (BEN). She will be responsible for managing the business partnerships that support The Academies of Lexington at Fayette County Public Schools, focusing on the onboarding of new community partners and volunteers, as well as ongoing relationship management with existing constituents, such as businesses, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and others.
A University of Kentucky graduate, Shepard has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with successful project and client management work experience that will provide the foundation for facilitating and managing the partnerships and activities of The Academies of Lexington.
ABOUT THE ACADEMIES OF LEXINGTON:
Through a strategic partnership among Commerce Lexington’s Business & Education Network, Fayette County Public Schools and the Ford Motor Company’s Next Generation Learning (NGL) initiative, a local collaborative effort is mobilizing educators, employers and community leaders to create a new generation of young people who are graduating from high school both college and career-ready. The foundation of this initiative is the creation of career-themed academies – The Academies of Lexington – at Bryan Station, Frederick Douglass and Tates Creek high schools.
ABOUT THE BUSINESS & EDUCATION NETWORK:
A subsidiary of Commerce Lexington Inc., the Business & Education Network (BEN) is a 501©3 nonprofit organization that works to ensure that Central Kentucky has an educated workforce with the skills employers are seeking by identifying current and future workforce needs, supporting alignment of workforce training and education resources, nurturing youth development, and connecting the education and business communities to support talent pipeline development in the region.
Natalie Shepard has been named as partnership manager of Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Business & Education Network (BEN). She will be responsible for managing the business partnerships that support The Academies of Lexington at Fayette County Public Schools, focusing on the onboarding of new community partners and volunteers, as well as ongoing relationship management with existing constituents, such as businesses, volunteers, faith-based organizations, and others.
A University of Kentucky graduate, Shepard has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with successful project and client management work experience that will provide the foundation for facilitating and managing the partnerships and activities of The Academies of Lexington.
ABOUT THE ACADEMIES OF LEXINGTON:
Through a strategic partnership among Commerce Lexington’s Business & Education Network, Fayette County Public Schools and the Ford Motor Company’s Next Generation Learning (NGL) initiative, a local collaborative effort is mobilizing educators, employers and community leaders to create a new generation of young people who are graduating from high school both college and career-ready. The foundation of this initiative is the creation of career-themed academies – The Academies of Lexington – at Bryan Station, Frederick Douglass and Tates Creek high schools.
ABOUT THE BUSINESS & EDUCATION NETWORK:
A subsidiary of Commerce Lexington Inc., the Business & Education Network (BEN) is a 501©3 nonprofit organization that works to ensure that Central Kentucky has an educated workforce with the skills employers are seeking by identifying current and future workforce needs, supporting alignment of workforce training and education resources, nurturing youth development, and connecting the education and business communities to support talent pipeline development in the region.
Board Members Approved for New 3-Year Terms on Commerce Lexington Inc. Board of Directors
During the November meeting of the Commerce Lexington Inc. Executive Board, the following individuals were approved for new three-year terms on the Commerce Lexington Inc. Board of Directors, starting in 2018.
MEMBERS ELECTED TO NEW 3-YEAR TERMS ON COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. BOARD:
Blair Boggs, Valvoline
John Gohmann, PNC Bank
Toa Green, Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream
Dr. Andrew Henderson, Lexington Clinic
Danny Murphy, University of Kentucky College of Law
Mike Price, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
Malcolm Ratchford, Community Action Council
Kevin Rogers, Kentucky American Water
The 2018 Commerce Lexington Inc. board nomination process began in August as indicated in the August issue of Business Focus and CLX's E-Newsletter, and nominations were due from the membership by September 5, 2017. The full 2018 Commerce Lexington Inc. Board of Directors will be announced at a later date.
During the November meeting of the Commerce Lexington Inc. Executive Board, the following individuals were approved for new three-year terms on the Commerce Lexington Inc. Board of Directors, starting in 2018.
MEMBERS ELECTED TO NEW 3-YEAR TERMS ON COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. BOARD:
Blair Boggs, Valvoline
John Gohmann, PNC Bank
Toa Green, Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream
Dr. Andrew Henderson, Lexington Clinic
Danny Murphy, University of Kentucky College of Law
Mike Price, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc.
Malcolm Ratchford, Community Action Council
Kevin Rogers, Kentucky American Water
The 2018 Commerce Lexington Inc. board nomination process began in August as indicated in the August issue of Business Focus and CLX's E-Newsletter, and nominations were due from the membership by September 5, 2017. The full 2018 Commerce Lexington Inc. Board of Directors will be announced at a later date.
Commerce Lexington Inc.'s Dana Zinger Appointed to Lead Statewide KCCE Board of Directors
Dana Zinger, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Assistant Vice President of Membership Development, has been appointed as President of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives’ Board of Directors. Established in 1965, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) is the society of chamber of commerce professionals in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As a not-for-profit division of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the primary goal of KCCE is to serve its membership by providing quality professional development, networking, resource exchange opportunities and grassroots advocacy. KCCE provides technical assistance, onsite consultation and training to local chambers on organizational and operational matters.
A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Zinger has worked in a variety of membership development roles at Commerce Lexington Inc. and its predecessor the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce since 2003. Prior to her tenure at Commerce Lexington Inc., she worked at the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce and ACS Government Systems in Lexington.
Dana Zinger, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Assistant Vice President of Membership Development, has been appointed as President of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives’ Board of Directors. Established in 1965, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) is the society of chamber of commerce professionals in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As a not-for-profit division of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the primary goal of KCCE is to serve its membership by providing quality professional development, networking, resource exchange opportunities and grassroots advocacy. KCCE provides technical assistance, onsite consultation and training to local chambers on organizational and operational matters.
A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Zinger has worked in a variety of membership development roles at Commerce Lexington Inc. and its predecessor the Greater Lexington Chamber of Commerce since 2003. Prior to her tenure at Commerce Lexington Inc., she worked at the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce and ACS Government Systems in Lexington.
Fusioncorp Spins Out New Startup, Adding Jobs
A Lexington-based technology company has spun out a new startup, Gamifi by Fusioncorp. Gamifi’s goal is to expand this new platform into a method of creating unique experiences through different technologies supported by applications. Mayor Jim Gray and Commerce Lexington Inc. joined Gamifi by Fusioncorp executives to celebrate the grand opening of the new spinout in Lexington and to announce that Gamifi has created eight new full-time technology jobs.
“Lexington’s high quality of life is naturally attracting and growing creative tech companies like Gamifi by Fusioncorp,” Mayor Jim Gray said. “This is great news for our tech community, and our city.”
Fusioncorp, founded in Lexington in 2005, recognized the growth of technology in apps and created a new company, Gamifi by Fusioncorp, to address this demand in the market. The company created two products through the new entity. Gamifi is the first product that engages users through immersive experiences using strategies involving Wayfinding, Augmented Reality and Gaming on an app with an end goal of creating a 365-day experience for the user. The other product is called Pivt, which is the backbone of the platform and is designed to integrate into current customer’s active Point of Sale (POS) or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to capture, retain and become smarter with the platform’s data.
“Gamifi is intended to give individuals that attend major events, cities or significant attractions an immersive experience that will enhance not only the venue’s ability to engage with their patrons but also give the end user an experience that will drive continuous engagement,” said Michael Baer, President of Fusioncorp. “We are excited to be doing this in Lexington, KY and appreciate the support of many partners including the City of Lexington and Commerce Lexington Inc.”
The Gamifi platform is also excited to announce App partnerships with The Muhammad Ali Center’s global initiative ‘Hours Against Hate’ which will have exposure to over 11 Million individuals around the world. It is also currently building platforms for The Buffalo Olmstead Park system in NY, The DMCVB and Detroit Sports Commission assisting in the Revitalization of Detroit, and Taylor Made Horse Farms, among others.
Gamifi by Fusioncorp has created eight new jobs with a capital investment of over $750,000. The jobs created are base platform developers, UI/UX designers, and Android and iOS programmers. The company utilized the Lexington Jobs Fund, a local incentive program, to assist companies in offsetting their startup costs.
“Lexington has become a center for entrepreneurial activity and Gamifi by Fusioncorp is another great example of how vibrant our tech community is,” said Carla Blanton, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s board chair. “Our economic development team is proud of the success and the new jobs Gamifi is creating. Congratulations on your new company.”
For more information on Gamifi by Fusioncorp, visit www.fusioncorpdesign.com.
A Lexington-based technology company has spun out a new startup, Gamifi by Fusioncorp. Gamifi’s goal is to expand this new platform into a method of creating unique experiences through different technologies supported by applications. Mayor Jim Gray and Commerce Lexington Inc. joined Gamifi by Fusioncorp executives to celebrate the grand opening of the new spinout in Lexington and to announce that Gamifi has created eight new full-time technology jobs.
“Lexington’s high quality of life is naturally attracting and growing creative tech companies like Gamifi by Fusioncorp,” Mayor Jim Gray said. “This is great news for our tech community, and our city.”
Fusioncorp, founded in Lexington in 2005, recognized the growth of technology in apps and created a new company, Gamifi by Fusioncorp, to address this demand in the market. The company created two products through the new entity. Gamifi is the first product that engages users through immersive experiences using strategies involving Wayfinding, Augmented Reality and Gaming on an app with an end goal of creating a 365-day experience for the user. The other product is called Pivt, which is the backbone of the platform and is designed to integrate into current customer’s active Point of Sale (POS) or Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to capture, retain and become smarter with the platform’s data.
“Gamifi is intended to give individuals that attend major events, cities or significant attractions an immersive experience that will enhance not only the venue’s ability to engage with their patrons but also give the end user an experience that will drive continuous engagement,” said Michael Baer, President of Fusioncorp. “We are excited to be doing this in Lexington, KY and appreciate the support of many partners including the City of Lexington and Commerce Lexington Inc.”
The Gamifi platform is also excited to announce App partnerships with The Muhammad Ali Center’s global initiative ‘Hours Against Hate’ which will have exposure to over 11 Million individuals around the world. It is also currently building platforms for The Buffalo Olmstead Park system in NY, The DMCVB and Detroit Sports Commission assisting in the Revitalization of Detroit, and Taylor Made Horse Farms, among others.
Gamifi by Fusioncorp has created eight new jobs with a capital investment of over $750,000. The jobs created are base platform developers, UI/UX designers, and Android and iOS programmers. The company utilized the Lexington Jobs Fund, a local incentive program, to assist companies in offsetting their startup costs.
“Lexington has become a center for entrepreneurial activity and Gamifi by Fusioncorp is another great example of how vibrant our tech community is,” said Carla Blanton, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s board chair. “Our economic development team is proud of the success and the new jobs Gamifi is creating. Congratulations on your new company.”
For more information on Gamifi by Fusioncorp, visit www.fusioncorpdesign.com.
“The great thing about VisitLEX is it’s a one-stop-shop. You can go to them and say ‘this is what I have going on for my meeting.’ And, they’ll help you find solutions, so you don’t have to worry about it.”
– Terry Keys
Cancer Education Liaison at UK Markey Cancer Center
Recommend LEX Program Helping Organizations Bring Meetings to Lexington
By Mary Quinn Ramer, President, VisitLEX
Total travel spending in Fayette County exceeds $2 billion per year – that’s a tremendous economic impact. It also provides a front-door to economic development by showing top executives and entrepreneurs why Lexington is not just a great place to visit. It’s a great place to live and to locate their business.
That is why VisitLEX created Recommend LEX, a program that focuses on local meeting planners who are a member of an association or organization and have the passion to showcase their hometown. VisitLEX can assist these Hometown Hosts with board meetings; annual, regional or national meeting; or sales incentive trips.
VisitLEX’s staff can help meeting planners provide a one-of-a-kind experience in the Horse Capital of the World, which will improve their meeting attendance and continue to build on the successful impact that tourism has had on our economy. This is especially true for convention visitors, who spend $290 per day compared to $130 for the leisure traveler.
Whether you have an event of 50 or 50,000, VisitLEX can provide resources for planning and promoting a meeting or event, including: destination videos and print material; master calendar of destination availability and special events; electronic bid books; access to more than 70 hotel partners; site visits coordination and execution; VIP speaker gifts; electronic meeting promotion tools; media and public relations support; and destination maps and guides.
VisitLEX can help save you time and money on meeting planning. The Hometown Host will then be recognized at an annual celebration luncheon. To learn more, visit www.visitlex.com/meet/meetings/recommendlex or e-mail to [email protected].
EDITOR’S NOTE: One of Commerce Lexington Inc.’s strategic targets is Visitor Industries. Our team has a strong partnership with VisitLEX to collaborate on this sector.
By Mary Quinn Ramer, President, VisitLEX
Total travel spending in Fayette County exceeds $2 billion per year – that’s a tremendous economic impact. It also provides a front-door to economic development by showing top executives and entrepreneurs why Lexington is not just a great place to visit. It’s a great place to live and to locate their business.
That is why VisitLEX created Recommend LEX, a program that focuses on local meeting planners who are a member of an association or organization and have the passion to showcase their hometown. VisitLEX can assist these Hometown Hosts with board meetings; annual, regional or national meeting; or sales incentive trips.
VisitLEX’s staff can help meeting planners provide a one-of-a-kind experience in the Horse Capital of the World, which will improve their meeting attendance and continue to build on the successful impact that tourism has had on our economy. This is especially true for convention visitors, who spend $290 per day compared to $130 for the leisure traveler.
Whether you have an event of 50 or 50,000, VisitLEX can provide resources for planning and promoting a meeting or event, including: destination videos and print material; master calendar of destination availability and special events; electronic bid books; access to more than 70 hotel partners; site visits coordination and execution; VIP speaker gifts; electronic meeting promotion tools; media and public relations support; and destination maps and guides.
VisitLEX can help save you time and money on meeting planning. The Hometown Host will then be recognized at an annual celebration luncheon. To learn more, visit www.visitlex.com/meet/meetings/recommendlex or e-mail to [email protected].
EDITOR’S NOTE: One of Commerce Lexington Inc.’s strategic targets is Visitor Industries. Our team has a strong partnership with VisitLEX to collaborate on this sector.
Left to right: Brad Richardson, current KCCE President & President of the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce; Kristie Woodrum, Commerce Lexington Inc. Business Development Manager; Dana Zinger, Commerce Lexington Inc. Assistant VP, Membership Development; Matt Valego, Infintech & sponsor of the annual KCCE Conference; and Amy Cloud, KCCE Executive Director.
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s EMERGE Conference Recognized with Excellence Award from KCCE
At the 52nd annual Celebration of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE), Commerce Lexington Inc.’s EMERGE Conference was recognized with an Excellence Award in the Outstanding Special Event Category (Group V). The KCCE Excellence Awards recognize superior achievement and professional excellence among local chambers throughout Kentucky, with awards presented in communications, membership and special events, as well as to top volunteers, staff members and executives.
Commerce Lexington’s annual EMERGE Conference brings together entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, business professionals, and community members. The event was created following the organization’s Leadership Visit to Omaha, Nebraska, in 2013, during which there was a heavy focus on how that city engaged its young professionals and leveraged its YP network. In its first four years, EMERGE has grown rapidly, with more than 400 people attending the 2017 conference.
The Emerge conference engages the next generation of leaders through networking, as well as education through breakout sessions in the areas of community engagement, professional development and personal growth. The 2017 event included a luncheon, keynote speakers, networking reception, and the opportunity to develop stronger ties to our community.
The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives, or KCCE, provides professional development and continuing education opportunities for local chambers of commerce, their staff and volunteers. KCCE also provides assistance, resources and grassroots advocacy to all chambers across the state.
At the 52nd annual Celebration of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE), Commerce Lexington Inc.’s EMERGE Conference was recognized with an Excellence Award in the Outstanding Special Event Category (Group V). The KCCE Excellence Awards recognize superior achievement and professional excellence among local chambers throughout Kentucky, with awards presented in communications, membership and special events, as well as to top volunteers, staff members and executives.
Commerce Lexington’s annual EMERGE Conference brings together entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, business professionals, and community members. The event was created following the organization’s Leadership Visit to Omaha, Nebraska, in 2013, during which there was a heavy focus on how that city engaged its young professionals and leveraged its YP network. In its first four years, EMERGE has grown rapidly, with more than 400 people attending the 2017 conference.
The Emerge conference engages the next generation of leaders through networking, as well as education through breakout sessions in the areas of community engagement, professional development and personal growth. The 2017 event included a luncheon, keynote speakers, networking reception, and the opportunity to develop stronger ties to our community.
The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives, or KCCE, provides professional development and continuing education opportunities for local chambers of commerce, their staff and volunteers. KCCE also provides assistance, resources and grassroots advocacy to all chambers across the state.
CLX's Kelly Bates Recognized for Lifetime Sales Achievement
Commerce Lexington Inc. Member Engagement Manager Kelly Bates was recognized recently by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) with a Lifetime Sales Achievement Award at its annual convention in Nashville. Pictured at left is Kelly with outgoing ACCE President Mick Fleming, who presented her with a Silver Level Lifetime Achievement Award, marking 750 transactions or $300,000 in chamber membership sales. Congratulations to Kelly Bates, who has been a strong producer in Commerce Lexington’s membership area for over 10 years.
Commerce Lexington Inc. Member Engagement Manager Kelly Bates was recognized recently by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) with a Lifetime Sales Achievement Award at its annual convention in Nashville. Pictured at left is Kelly with outgoing ACCE President Mick Fleming, who presented her with a Silver Level Lifetime Achievement Award, marking 750 transactions or $300,000 in chamber membership sales. Congratulations to Kelly Bates, who has been a strong producer in Commerce Lexington’s membership area for over 10 years.
Lexington Ranked 7th-Best for New College Grads
For the third consecutive year, SmartAsset took a look at the best cities for new college graduates. Moving up 11 spots this year, Lexington ranked 7th on the 2017 list. According to SmartAsset, residents here with Bachelor’s degrees are seeing more jobs this year, with the unemployment rate down by 2-percent, despite the drop in job postings. On average, college graduates are earning more than they were last year, as well.
Luckily, the rent remains affordable, landing Lexington in the top 25 in this metric overall. In fact, the overall cost of living is basically right at the national average, placing it as the 19th-best out of all the cities considered. That leaves some nice space in a budget to head to the growing number of entertainment and dining businesses in the city. Plus, Lexington’s bars snagged the second-best Yelp scores in the top 10. SmartAsset looked at the 108 largest cities for which data was available, calculating scores for cities based on metrics under three crucial categories in a new college graduate’s life: jobs, affordability and fun.
Find out more about this new ranking HERE.
For the third consecutive year, SmartAsset took a look at the best cities for new college graduates. Moving up 11 spots this year, Lexington ranked 7th on the 2017 list. According to SmartAsset, residents here with Bachelor’s degrees are seeing more jobs this year, with the unemployment rate down by 2-percent, despite the drop in job postings. On average, college graduates are earning more than they were last year, as well.
Luckily, the rent remains affordable, landing Lexington in the top 25 in this metric overall. In fact, the overall cost of living is basically right at the national average, placing it as the 19th-best out of all the cities considered. That leaves some nice space in a budget to head to the growing number of entertainment and dining businesses in the city. Plus, Lexington’s bars snagged the second-best Yelp scores in the top 10. SmartAsset looked at the 108 largest cities for which data was available, calculating scores for cities based on metrics under three crucial categories in a new college graduate’s life: jobs, affordability and fun.
Find out more about this new ranking HERE.
MosquitoMate Expands Lexington Operations
A Lexington-based biotech company and spinout of the University of Kentucky is growing its operations to meet demands of mosquito-borne disease and pest control in the United States. Mayor Jim Gray and UK President Eli Capilouto today joined MosquitoMate officials and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s newly expanded facilities in Lexington.
MosquitoMate Inc. is expanding its facilities to produce sterile male mosquitoes that will serve as a nontoxic, non-GMO pesticide. Unlike female mosquitoes, male mosquitoes do not bite. Since female mosquitoes tend to be monogamous, once a sterile male mates with a female, her eggs will not hatch eliminating the next generation of mosquitoes.
The company is creating 12 new jobs in addition to the 10 existing jobs in their Research and Development facility off Regency Road. At capacity, the new facility will be able to produce in excess of 50 million eggs per week and three million sterile males per week. Poised for EPA approval, the company will be able to sell the sterile male mosquitoes to combat pest control issues.
“Our City and our state benefit from the jobs created by UK brainpower. It’s one reason university cities like ours have a high rate of business starts. MosquitoMate is also offering our city important new ways to protect citizens from mosquito-borne illnesses, like Zika,” Mayor Jim Gray said. “Congratulations to MosquitoMate.”
The new 6,000-square-foot mosquito production facility will be the first of its kind to produce and distribute non-GMO ZAP male mosquitoes as a biopesticide against the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), an invasive mosquito commonly known to carry infectious diseases like Zika Virus, Dengue, Chikungunya and pet animal heartworm. This facility will serve as a model for future facilities throughout the country and internationally, as well as improve capacity for MosquitoMate to provide an environmentally-friendly, front line solutions to fight the potential spread of disease.
“Developing innovative pest control solutions using environmentally-friendly technology continues to be our focus,” said Founder and President Stephen Dobson, Ph.D. “Lexington’s startup business environment and its close proximity to a leading research university is ideal for us to continue to develop ideas, perform research and commercialize products.”
The company’s non-chemical, non-GMO approach to mosquito control involves producing non-biting, ZAP male mosquitoes that carry a naturally-occurring bacterium called ‘Wolbachia.’ Wolbachia bacteria occur in over half of all insects naturally. When a ZAP male mates with Tiger mosquito females, their eggs do no hatch. If enough of the Tiger mosquito eggs do not hatch, then the population goes away, without having to use chemicals that can harm bees and butterflies.
As more non-biting ZAP males are released, the biting mosquito population can decrease dramatically. A series of successful trials have been conducted by MosquitoMate and its partners in California, New York and Lexington. Current trials are underway in South Florida.
MosquitoMate’s approach is species-specific. Male mosquitoes do not try to mate with bees or butterflies, and so unlike many traditional chemical control methods, the MosquitoMate ZAP males do not harm beneficial insects.
“Our research and creative discovery shape industry, create jobs and broaden our understanding of the human, artistic and technological world, “said UK President Eli Capilouto. “This work highlights, in a compelling way, our role as an economic engine for the Commonwealth and as the University for Kentucky.”
“Our Cabinet is proud to support MosquitoMate’s innovative work, both because it adds to our state’s biotech sector and that it reduces an annoyance and potentially disease-carrying hazard we all face this time of year,” said Terry Gill, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. “Today’s event provides a great example of how promoting an atmosphere for R&D and entrepreneurship in Kentucky, companies ultimately create new economic impact as they mature. I congratulate MosquitoMate on opening its new facility and look forward to working with them in the future.”
“The Bluegrass Business Development Partnership has enjoyed working with MosquitoMate on their site selection process over the last few years,” said Carla Blanton, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Board Chair. “With a flagship research university and our highly educated workforce, Lexington is a prime location for MosquitoMate’s growth. Congratulations on your expansion.”
“MosquitoMate is an excellent example of success being cultivated here in Central Kentucky,” said Terry Samuel, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation. “Start with leading scientists leveraging technology and expertise from UK, add in support from Commerce Lexington Inc., the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation and the Cabinet for Economic Development and the result is a home-grown company that is not only growing commercially, but also preventing the dissemination of some of the world's most serious diseases.”
A Lexington-based biotech company and spinout of the University of Kentucky is growing its operations to meet demands of mosquito-borne disease and pest control in the United States. Mayor Jim Gray and UK President Eli Capilouto today joined MosquitoMate officials and local leaders to celebrate the grand opening of the company’s newly expanded facilities in Lexington.
MosquitoMate Inc. is expanding its facilities to produce sterile male mosquitoes that will serve as a nontoxic, non-GMO pesticide. Unlike female mosquitoes, male mosquitoes do not bite. Since female mosquitoes tend to be monogamous, once a sterile male mates with a female, her eggs will not hatch eliminating the next generation of mosquitoes.
The company is creating 12 new jobs in addition to the 10 existing jobs in their Research and Development facility off Regency Road. At capacity, the new facility will be able to produce in excess of 50 million eggs per week and three million sterile males per week. Poised for EPA approval, the company will be able to sell the sterile male mosquitoes to combat pest control issues.
“Our City and our state benefit from the jobs created by UK brainpower. It’s one reason university cities like ours have a high rate of business starts. MosquitoMate is also offering our city important new ways to protect citizens from mosquito-borne illnesses, like Zika,” Mayor Jim Gray said. “Congratulations to MosquitoMate.”
The new 6,000-square-foot mosquito production facility will be the first of its kind to produce and distribute non-GMO ZAP male mosquitoes as a biopesticide against the Asian Tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), an invasive mosquito commonly known to carry infectious diseases like Zika Virus, Dengue, Chikungunya and pet animal heartworm. This facility will serve as a model for future facilities throughout the country and internationally, as well as improve capacity for MosquitoMate to provide an environmentally-friendly, front line solutions to fight the potential spread of disease.
“Developing innovative pest control solutions using environmentally-friendly technology continues to be our focus,” said Founder and President Stephen Dobson, Ph.D. “Lexington’s startup business environment and its close proximity to a leading research university is ideal for us to continue to develop ideas, perform research and commercialize products.”
The company’s non-chemical, non-GMO approach to mosquito control involves producing non-biting, ZAP male mosquitoes that carry a naturally-occurring bacterium called ‘Wolbachia.’ Wolbachia bacteria occur in over half of all insects naturally. When a ZAP male mates with Tiger mosquito females, their eggs do no hatch. If enough of the Tiger mosquito eggs do not hatch, then the population goes away, without having to use chemicals that can harm bees and butterflies.
As more non-biting ZAP males are released, the biting mosquito population can decrease dramatically. A series of successful trials have been conducted by MosquitoMate and its partners in California, New York and Lexington. Current trials are underway in South Florida.
MosquitoMate’s approach is species-specific. Male mosquitoes do not try to mate with bees or butterflies, and so unlike many traditional chemical control methods, the MosquitoMate ZAP males do not harm beneficial insects.
“Our research and creative discovery shape industry, create jobs and broaden our understanding of the human, artistic and technological world, “said UK President Eli Capilouto. “This work highlights, in a compelling way, our role as an economic engine for the Commonwealth and as the University for Kentucky.”
“Our Cabinet is proud to support MosquitoMate’s innovative work, both because it adds to our state’s biotech sector and that it reduces an annoyance and potentially disease-carrying hazard we all face this time of year,” said Terry Gill, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. “Today’s event provides a great example of how promoting an atmosphere for R&D and entrepreneurship in Kentucky, companies ultimately create new economic impact as they mature. I congratulate MosquitoMate on opening its new facility and look forward to working with them in the future.”
“The Bluegrass Business Development Partnership has enjoyed working with MosquitoMate on their site selection process over the last few years,” said Carla Blanton, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Board Chair. “With a flagship research university and our highly educated workforce, Lexington is a prime location for MosquitoMate’s growth. Congratulations on your expansion.”
“MosquitoMate is an excellent example of success being cultivated here in Central Kentucky,” said Terry Samuel, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation. “Start with leading scientists leveraging technology and expertise from UK, add in support from Commerce Lexington Inc., the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation and the Cabinet for Economic Development and the result is a home-grown company that is not only growing commercially, but also preventing the dissemination of some of the world's most serious diseases.”
CLX’s Gina Greathouse Recognized with KAED’s Community Professional
of the Year Award at Fall Conference
[Lexington, KY] – Gina Greathouse, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Executive Vice President of Economic Development, was recently honored with the Kentucky Association for Economic Development’s (KAED) James J. Coleman Community Professional of the Year Award at its fall conference. The award recognizes practitioners who have made significant and/or innovative contributions to the field and their service area during the past year.
A 21-year veteran of Commerce Lexington Inc. and long-time economic development professional, Ms. Greathouse has been instrumental in leading the organization’s economic development efforts. Her team not only helps Lexington/Central Kentucky put its “best foot forward” when recruiting new businesses to the area, but she also manages many expansion, retention and start-up projects right here at home.
Under her leadership, Commerce Lexington’s Economic Development Division has surpassed its internal goals, increased annual economic return targets and continually sought new advancements in operational tools, such as adding an economic impact report and project database, as well as upgrading our website’s searchable data software. Commerce Lexington Inc. has also strengthened its partnerships within the Bluegrass Business Development Partnership – including Commerce Lexington, the City of Lexington and University of Kentucky, the Bluegrass Economic Advancement Movement (BEAM) – a 22-county economic initiative between Lexington and Louisville, the Bluegrass Alliance and others.
In 2016, the Economic Development Division earned one of the top communications and marketing awards from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) for a project developed specifically for the 2015 Breeders’ Cup, as well as several marketing honors from the International Economic Development Council and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development. Meanwhile, Commerce Lexington Inc. was named ACCE’s Chamber of the Year as the nation’s top chamber of commerce. It was the third consecutive year that CLX was a finalist for the award, competing this time against some of the largest chambers in the country – Jacksonville (FL), Brooklyn (NY) and Tacoma (WA).
of the Year Award at Fall Conference
[Lexington, KY] – Gina Greathouse, Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Executive Vice President of Economic Development, was recently honored with the Kentucky Association for Economic Development’s (KAED) James J. Coleman Community Professional of the Year Award at its fall conference. The award recognizes practitioners who have made significant and/or innovative contributions to the field and their service area during the past year.
A 21-year veteran of Commerce Lexington Inc. and long-time economic development professional, Ms. Greathouse has been instrumental in leading the organization’s economic development efforts. Her team not only helps Lexington/Central Kentucky put its “best foot forward” when recruiting new businesses to the area, but she also manages many expansion, retention and start-up projects right here at home.
Under her leadership, Commerce Lexington’s Economic Development Division has surpassed its internal goals, increased annual economic return targets and continually sought new advancements in operational tools, such as adding an economic impact report and project database, as well as upgrading our website’s searchable data software. Commerce Lexington Inc. has also strengthened its partnerships within the Bluegrass Business Development Partnership – including Commerce Lexington, the City of Lexington and University of Kentucky, the Bluegrass Economic Advancement Movement (BEAM) – a 22-county economic initiative between Lexington and Louisville, the Bluegrass Alliance and others.
In 2016, the Economic Development Division earned one of the top communications and marketing awards from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) for a project developed specifically for the 2015 Breeders’ Cup, as well as several marketing honors from the International Economic Development Council and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development. Meanwhile, Commerce Lexington Inc. was named ACCE’s Chamber of the Year as the nation’s top chamber of commerce. It was the third consecutive year that CLX was a finalist for the award, competing this time against some of the largest chambers in the country – Jacksonville (FL), Brooklyn (NY) and Tacoma (WA).
Commerce Lex. Economic Development Division Recognized With 2 IEDC Excellence Awards
Commerce Lexington Inc. is proud to announce that it received two Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) during its annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Economic Development division received a Silver Excellence in Economic Development Award for its 2016 Breeders’ Cup: Here's Our Proof project in the category of General Purpose Print Promotion and a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for a 2016 project in the category of Paid Advertisement Campaign. The campaign series, entitled “Come Back Home,” focuses on the business attributes of Lexington, as well as on alumni who successfully brought their business back to Lexington.
“On behalf of the IEDC board of directors and Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee, congratulations to Commerce Lexington Inc. Economic Development. Not only did they work to provide a necessary service to their community; but also, their participation in the awards program sheds light on their stellar projects which other communities can now use a benchmark," said Barry Matherly, CEcD, FM, IEDC 2016 Board Chair, President & CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership.
IEDC's Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. These awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities.
Commerce Lexington Inc. is proud to announce that it received two Excellence in Economic Development Awards from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) during its annual conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Economic Development division received a Silver Excellence in Economic Development Award for its 2016 Breeders’ Cup: Here's Our Proof project in the category of General Purpose Print Promotion and a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for a 2016 project in the category of Paid Advertisement Campaign. The campaign series, entitled “Come Back Home,” focuses on the business attributes of Lexington, as well as on alumni who successfully brought their business back to Lexington.
“On behalf of the IEDC board of directors and Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee, congratulations to Commerce Lexington Inc. Economic Development. Not only did they work to provide a necessary service to their community; but also, their participation in the awards program sheds light on their stellar projects which other communities can now use a benchmark," said Barry Matherly, CEcD, FM, IEDC 2016 Board Chair, President & CEO of the Greater Richmond Partnership.
IEDC's Excellence in Economic Development Awards recognize the world’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders. These awards honor organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban, and rural communities.
VIDEO: Opportunity Exchange - Blockchain
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s recent Opportunity Exchange event presented by Columbia Gas of Kentucky featured Lafe Taylor and Koby Hastings, principals of Fluent, a blockchain-based financial network and payment platform startup aimed at providing a friction-less operating network for large enterprises and their global supply chains. Opportunity Exchange events are held twice per year and feature great networking and interaction for minority-owned and small businesses in the Lexington community, as well as the opportunity to talk with purchasing professionals from several large companies.
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s recent Opportunity Exchange event presented by Columbia Gas of Kentucky featured Lafe Taylor and Koby Hastings, principals of Fluent, a blockchain-based financial network and payment platform startup aimed at providing a friction-less operating network for large enterprises and their global supply chains. Opportunity Exchange events are held twice per year and feature great networking and interaction for minority-owned and small businesses in the Lexington community, as well as the opportunity to talk with purchasing professionals from several large companies.
Commerce Lexington Named ‘Chamber of the Year’ by Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives
Marketing Project Receives Grand Award in Communications Excellence
Commerce Lexington Inc. was named “Chamber of the Year” in the large chamber category (Category 4) during the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) annual convention in Savannah, Georgia. At an awards program last night, Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick and a portion of its staff accepted the honor from ACCE, after competing against other category finalists, which included other chambers from Brooklyn (NY), Jacksonville (FL), and Tacoma-Pierce County (WA).
ACCE’s Chamber of the Year Award recognizes the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities, honoring excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership. The comprehensive awards program includes an operations survey where chambers must meet key performance areas, an application that details two programs or initiatives, and finally in-person interviews with leaders from each finalist chamber conducted by a judging committee.
Mr. Quick said, “This is the pinnacle for our organization, as well as our entire membership, the board of directors and volunteers, and the many partners with whom we work on a daily basis. The award not only affirms that we are doing quality work in events and programs across our organization, but also recognizes the efforts of many great people throughout the region working day-in and day-out to strengthen Central Kentucky.”
In addition to the Chamber of the Year Award, Commerce Lexington Inc. also received one of ACCE’s top communications/marketing honors – a Grand Award – for the Economic Development Division’s “Here’s Our Proof” marketing campaign during the 2015 Breeders’ Cup. Partnering with VisitLEX, this Bourbon box marketing gift showcased Lexington as a great place for business and a top location for conventions and tourism.
Marketing Project Receives Grand Award in Communications Excellence
Commerce Lexington Inc. was named “Chamber of the Year” in the large chamber category (Category 4) during the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) annual convention in Savannah, Georgia. At an awards program last night, Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick and a portion of its staff accepted the honor from ACCE, after competing against other category finalists, which included other chambers from Brooklyn (NY), Jacksonville (FL), and Tacoma-Pierce County (WA).
ACCE’s Chamber of the Year Award recognizes the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities, honoring excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership. The comprehensive awards program includes an operations survey where chambers must meet key performance areas, an application that details two programs or initiatives, and finally in-person interviews with leaders from each finalist chamber conducted by a judging committee.
Mr. Quick said, “This is the pinnacle for our organization, as well as our entire membership, the board of directors and volunteers, and the many partners with whom we work on a daily basis. The award not only affirms that we are doing quality work in events and programs across our organization, but also recognizes the efforts of many great people throughout the region working day-in and day-out to strengthen Central Kentucky.”
In addition to the Chamber of the Year Award, Commerce Lexington Inc. also received one of ACCE’s top communications/marketing honors – a Grand Award – for the Economic Development Division’s “Here’s Our Proof” marketing campaign during the 2015 Breeders’ Cup. Partnering with VisitLEX, this Bourbon box marketing gift showcased Lexington as a great place for business and a top location for conventions and tourism.
Commerce Lexington Inc. Recognized Among Top Chambers of Commerce for Third Consecutive Year
[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – For the third consecutive year, Commerce Lexington Inc. has been recognized among top chambers of commerce internationally as a finalist for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) 2016 Chamber of the Year Award. Since 2007, ACCE has annually recognized chambers of commerce in various size categories for their work leading businesses and communities with the Chamber of the Year Award, which recognizes excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick, CCE, said, “We are humbled to be recognized once again among the top chambers of commerce within a category that contains some of the largest chambers in the country. The comprehensive nature of this honor means a lot to our board, staff, volunteers, and members, who contribute daily to our efforts to enhance our community, but it also affirms that we are doing quality work in events, programs and services across our organization.”
ACCE President and Chief Executive Officer Mick Fleming said, “Applicants have already proven themselves worthy of emulation and praise by the time they reach finalist status. Only chambers meeting certain benchmarks are even invited to apply, so becoming a finalist is a big deal. In each case, the chamber’s numbers are good, their highlighted programs are strong and their impact on businesses and communities is evident.”
The Chamber of the Year process begins with the Annual Operations Survey. Applicants qualified to compete by completing the survey and meeting thresholds in at least four of six key performance areas including: net revenue, net assets, reserve funds, membership account retention, and membership dollar retention.
ACCE staff and the Chamber of the Year volunteer judging committee determine the competition category for each applicant based on established criteria, including: annual revenue, member accounts, service area population, number of businesses in the service area, and restricted revenue as a percentage of total revenue. In the final phase of award process, the judging committee conducts in-person interviews with leaders from each finalist chamber.
The 2016 Chamber of the Year Award winners will be announced at ACCE’s Annual Convention August 9-12, in Savannah, Georgia. A complete list of ACCE Chamber of the Year Award Finalists follows.
2016 CHAMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS:
State/Province Association Category:
Category 4:
Category 3:
Category 2:
Category 1:
[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – For the third consecutive year, Commerce Lexington Inc. has been recognized among top chambers of commerce internationally as a finalist for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) 2016 Chamber of the Year Award. Since 2007, ACCE has annually recognized chambers of commerce in various size categories for their work leading businesses and communities with the Chamber of the Year Award, which recognizes excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick, CCE, said, “We are humbled to be recognized once again among the top chambers of commerce within a category that contains some of the largest chambers in the country. The comprehensive nature of this honor means a lot to our board, staff, volunteers, and members, who contribute daily to our efforts to enhance our community, but it also affirms that we are doing quality work in events, programs and services across our organization.”
ACCE President and Chief Executive Officer Mick Fleming said, “Applicants have already proven themselves worthy of emulation and praise by the time they reach finalist status. Only chambers meeting certain benchmarks are even invited to apply, so becoming a finalist is a big deal. In each case, the chamber’s numbers are good, their highlighted programs are strong and their impact on businesses and communities is evident.”
The Chamber of the Year process begins with the Annual Operations Survey. Applicants qualified to compete by completing the survey and meeting thresholds in at least four of six key performance areas including: net revenue, net assets, reserve funds, membership account retention, and membership dollar retention.
ACCE staff and the Chamber of the Year volunteer judging committee determine the competition category for each applicant based on established criteria, including: annual revenue, member accounts, service area population, number of businesses in the service area, and restricted revenue as a percentage of total revenue. In the final phase of award process, the judging committee conducts in-person interviews with leaders from each finalist chamber.
The 2016 Chamber of the Year Award winners will be announced at ACCE’s Annual Convention August 9-12, in Savannah, Georgia. A complete list of ACCE Chamber of the Year Award Finalists follows.
2016 CHAMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS:
State/Province Association Category:
- Association of Washington Business (WA)
- Georgia Chamber of Commerce (Atlanta, GA)
- Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce (Regina, Saskatchewan)
Category 4:
- Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce (Brooklyn, NY)
- Commerce Lexington Inc. (Lexington, KY)
- JAX Chamber (Jacksonville, FL)
- Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce (Tacoma, WA)
Category 3:
- Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce (Bowling Green, KY)
- Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce (Gainesville, FL)
- Southwest Indiana Chamber (Evansville, IN)
Category 2:
- The Chamber of Greater Springfield (Springfield, OH)
- Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce (Muskegon Lakeshore, MI)
- Vail Valley Partnership (Avon, CO)
Category 1:
- Catawba County Chamber of Commerce (Hickory, NC)
- O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce & Industries (O’Fallon, MO)
- Rowan County Chamber of Commerce (Salisbury, NC)
Commerce Lexington Inc. Staff Promotions
[Lexington, Ky.] – Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO, Bob Quick, announced several staff promotions effective immediately in a variety of areas across the organization.
Mr. Quick said, “It should come as no surprise, especially after being recognized as a Top 3 Chamber of Commerce nationally for two consecutive years and more recently as the #8 Best Mid-Sized City for Economic Development, that I would like to applaud the staff at Commerce Lexington Inc. for the incredible work they do to advance Lexington and Central Kentucky’s economy and quality of place.”
“I am very proud of this organization and the work that our entire staff does on behalf of business and industry,” added Quick. “Commerce Lexington’s success comes down to quality leadership and experience among our staff, which currently boasts more than 200 years of experience in the chamber of commerce/economic development industry.”
[Lexington, Ky.] – Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO, Bob Quick, announced several staff promotions effective immediately in a variety of areas across the organization.
- Gina Greathouse Executive Vice President, Economic Development
- Lynda Bebrowsky Executive Vice President, Membership & Engagement
- Mark Turner Chief Communications Officer
- Andi Johnson Chief Policy Officer & Director of Regional Engagement
Mr. Quick said, “It should come as no surprise, especially after being recognized as a Top 3 Chamber of Commerce nationally for two consecutive years and more recently as the #8 Best Mid-Sized City for Economic Development, that I would like to applaud the staff at Commerce Lexington Inc. for the incredible work they do to advance Lexington and Central Kentucky’s economy and quality of place.”
“I am very proud of this organization and the work that our entire staff does on behalf of business and industry,” added Quick. “Commerce Lexington’s success comes down to quality leadership and experience among our staff, which currently boasts more than 200 years of experience in the chamber of commerce/economic development industry.”
Lexington Recognized Among Top Metros for Economic Development by Site Selection
Kentucky has been awarded the Governor’s Cup for the second year by Site Selection Magazine! In order to be considered for the Governor’s Cup, projects must fulfill one or more of the following criteria:
Kentucky had 285 qualifying projects, up from 258 last year. Kentucky ranked #1 in Projects Per Capita and #5 in Number of Projects overall.
Many of the capital projects that helped Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup were in the Bluegrass Region, including Valvoline’s $35 million investment in their headquarters and R&D operations in Lexington.
Lexington also ranked #8 Top Mid-Sized Metro Area by Number of Projects, up from #16 the year before.
Several projects that helped Lexington rank #8 were supported by Commerce Lexington, including Innovative Mattress Solutions’ headquarters relocation to Lexington, Belcan’s expansions of its engineering services, and CLARK Material Handling’s expansion of their manufacturing operations.
In fact, last year Commerce Lexington helped nearly 40 companies locate to or expand in Lexington, representing a variety of industries including advanced manufacturing, information technology, R&D, biotech, and headquarters operations. These companies invested over $109 million and created over 970 jobs in the Bluegrass Region.
Kentucky has been awarded the Governor’s Cup for the second year by Site Selection Magazine! In order to be considered for the Governor’s Cup, projects must fulfill one or more of the following criteria:
- capital investment of at least $1 million
- create 50 or more jobs
- add at least 20,000 square feet of new floor space.
Kentucky had 285 qualifying projects, up from 258 last year. Kentucky ranked #1 in Projects Per Capita and #5 in Number of Projects overall.
Many of the capital projects that helped Kentucky win the Governor’s Cup were in the Bluegrass Region, including Valvoline’s $35 million investment in their headquarters and R&D operations in Lexington.
Lexington also ranked #8 Top Mid-Sized Metro Area by Number of Projects, up from #16 the year before.
Several projects that helped Lexington rank #8 were supported by Commerce Lexington, including Innovative Mattress Solutions’ headquarters relocation to Lexington, Belcan’s expansions of its engineering services, and CLARK Material Handling’s expansion of their manufacturing operations.
In fact, last year Commerce Lexington helped nearly 40 companies locate to or expand in Lexington, representing a variety of industries including advanced manufacturing, information technology, R&D, biotech, and headquarters operations. These companies invested over $109 million and created over 970 jobs in the Bluegrass Region.
Betsy Dexter Hired to Lead Business and Education Network
Betsy Dexter has been named the new Executive Director of the Business & Education Network (BEN), a subsidiary of Commerce Lexington Inc. that is charged with assisting efforts to close the workforce skills gap in the Central Kentucky Region.
Before coming to Commerce Lexington Inc., Dexter spent three years with the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as a manager of public affairs, specializing in education and workforce policy. Prior to her work with the Kentucky Chamber, she was a Field Representative for former Congressman Ben Chandler, where she represented the Congressman throughout Kentucky’s Sixth Congressional District. Her previous professional experience includes marketing and brand management for Panera, LLC, and washingtonpost.com.
Business and Education Network Board Chair Mark Lewis, President of Tenmast Software, said, “After an exhaustive search and careful consideration, the BEN board selected Betsy Dexter to lead the Business Education Network. Betsy has a strong background in workforce development and brings talent and skill to the position. I am looking forward to working with Betsy to bring business and education together in order to enhance our skilled and dynamic workforce in Lexington.”
In April 2015, Dexter completed a yearlong fellowship with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, where she worked to develop strategies for improving the birth-to-career education pipeline in local communities.
She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and currently resides in Lexington. Contact Betsy Dexter at (859) 226-1604.
Betsy Dexter has been named the new Executive Director of the Business & Education Network (BEN), a subsidiary of Commerce Lexington Inc. that is charged with assisting efforts to close the workforce skills gap in the Central Kentucky Region.
Before coming to Commerce Lexington Inc., Dexter spent three years with the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce as a manager of public affairs, specializing in education and workforce policy. Prior to her work with the Kentucky Chamber, she was a Field Representative for former Congressman Ben Chandler, where she represented the Congressman throughout Kentucky’s Sixth Congressional District. Her previous professional experience includes marketing and brand management for Panera, LLC, and washingtonpost.com.
Business and Education Network Board Chair Mark Lewis, President of Tenmast Software, said, “After an exhaustive search and careful consideration, the BEN board selected Betsy Dexter to lead the Business Education Network. Betsy has a strong background in workforce development and brings talent and skill to the position. I am looking forward to working with Betsy to bring business and education together in order to enhance our skilled and dynamic workforce in Lexington.”
In April 2015, Dexter completed a yearlong fellowship with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, where she worked to develop strategies for improving the birth-to-career education pipeline in local communities.
She is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and currently resides in Lexington. Contact Betsy Dexter at (859) 226-1604.
Innovative Mattress Solutions to Locate Headquarters in Lexington, Creating 52 Jobs
(September 24, 2015) – A University of Kentucky alumna is bringing her business to the Commonwealth. Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen and Lexington Mayor Jim Gray today announced UK graduate and Innovative Mattress Solutions CEO Kimberly Brown Knopf will locate her company’s headquarters in Lexington.
Innovative Mattress Solutions (IMS), operating in Kentucky as Sleep Outfitters, has mattress stores in six states. IMS will create 52 jobs and invest nearly $2.4 million in the project.
“This is a momentous occasion for Innovative Mattress Solutions and Lexington,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “I’m excited the company is expanding its successful Kentucky operation and establishing its headquarters here. I’m proud to welcome home a fellow University of Kentucky alumna who has gone on to enjoy great success as an entrepreneur.”
“Bringing a new business to the Commonwealth is always a rewarding venture,” said Lt. Gov. Luallen, “Bringing home a Kentucky native in the process makes this day all the more special. The local connection that Innovative Mattress Solutions has already established by offering a number of Tempur Sealy International Inc. products, and the generosity the company has already shown by giving back to the community, indicates that IMS has a bright future here in Lexington.”
IMS plans to occupy increased office and warehouse distribution space on Jaggie Fox Way, formerly the headquarters for Tempur-Pedic prior to the establishment of Tempur Sealy International Inc. The company needs the larger distribution facility for its Lexington operation since sales growth exceeded the capacity of its current home. The move to the new distribution warehouse will double the company’s existing Lexington distribution center capacity. The 52 jobs created with this project include operations, financing, information technology, marketing, human resources and sales.
“It’s exciting to bring my company’s headquarters to my home state of Kentucky,” said Knopf. “Lexington’s advantageous proximity to our region and its location to our strategic partner, Tempur Sealy International Inc., make it an ideal location for us. Our connection with my alma mater provides us with opportunities for internships and recruitment. We are grateful for the assistance and support we have received from the state, city and Commerce Lexington.”
In addition to the headquarters move, Knopf said IMS and Tempur Sealy International Inc. are donating to a local women’s shelter.
“Tempur Sealy International Inc. is not just a valued business partner, but also a company that shares our passion for giving back to the community,” Knopf said. “On the occasion of this exciting announcement about our headquarters move, we’d like to share some more exciting news. IMS is proud to work with Tempur Sealy International Inc. to deliver to an area women’s shelter more than 40 Tempur-Pedic mattresses, as well as foundations and bed frames donated by IMS. We are committed to providing a great night’s sleep to the residents of the shelter, and look forward to more IMS-Tempur Sealy International Inc. initiatives that will benefit our local communities in the future.”
“Deciding to locate its headquarters in Lexington is a vote of confidence from Innovative Mattress Solutions in our city’s workforce and quality of life,” Mayor Gray said. “Our unemployment rate is among the lowest in the state. Innovative Mattress Solutions is a welcome addition to Lexington, a university city that embraces talent, ideas and an entrepreneurial spirit.”
Shortly after graduating from UK, Kimberly Brown Knopf founded her company, becoming its president and CEO. The Louisville native has continued to grow her company, which now operates 155 retail stores in six states as it continues to expand. Additionally, IMS conducts business as Mattress Warehouse and Mattress King.
“UK alumni succeed in myriad ways, and we’re proud when those alumni choose to bring their talent and expertise back home,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “Kim has built a successful company with Innovative Mattress Solutions, and she maintains a close commitment to her alma mater through collaborations with the Gatton College of Business and Economics and as a mentor to young women in the Gatton College’s Women Business Leaders Program. She’s an excellent role model to young entrepreneurs, and we’re excited to see IMS develop a stronger foundation in central Kentucky.”
“I understand that Innovative Mattress Solutions has been looking to make the move to a permanent distribution center and corporate headquarters in Lexington for some time now, and I am pleased that they have worked something out,” said Sen. Ralph Alvarado, of Winchester. “It is encouraging to see this company’s growth, and the more than 50 jobs they will create in our community is tremendous news.”
“I’m really pleased to see Innovative Mattress Solutions take this step forward and invest further in Fayette County,” said Rep. George Brown, of Lexington. “Today’s announcement shows that our community is continuing to do the right things to help our local businesses grow and to bring others here. I appreciate the work our local and state economic development leaders are doing to create this favorable environment.”
“We are so excited that Innovative Mattress Solutions has ‘bounced’ into Lexington with its new headquarters, new jobs for our community and an economic investment that will impact our region for many years,” said Bob Quick, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “Congratulations to UK alumna Kim Knopf, who is bringing her company back home to the Bluegrass. Our economic development staff is proud to have worked with IMS since 2010, as we explored the opportunity to place its headquarters here. Both UK alumni and headquarter operations are points of emphasis set forth in our economic development strategic plan.”
To encourage the investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $750,000 through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the term of the agreement through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
Innovative Mattress Solutions also has received preliminary approval from the City of Lexington for a $250,000 Jobs Fund loan. The Jobs Fund was established to promote high-quality job creation with a focus on relocating primary base operations to Lexington.
In addition, Innovative Mattress Solutions is eligible to receive resources from the Kentucky Skills Network. Through the Kentucky Skills Network, companies are eligible to receive no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job training incentives. Last year, the Kentucky Skills Network trained more than 84,000 employees from more than 4,100 Kentucky companies.
For more information on Innovative Mattress Solutions, visit www.sleepoutfitters.com.
(September 24, 2015) – A University of Kentucky alumna is bringing her business to the Commonwealth. Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen and Lexington Mayor Jim Gray today announced UK graduate and Innovative Mattress Solutions CEO Kimberly Brown Knopf will locate her company’s headquarters in Lexington.
Innovative Mattress Solutions (IMS), operating in Kentucky as Sleep Outfitters, has mattress stores in six states. IMS will create 52 jobs and invest nearly $2.4 million in the project.
“This is a momentous occasion for Innovative Mattress Solutions and Lexington,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “I’m excited the company is expanding its successful Kentucky operation and establishing its headquarters here. I’m proud to welcome home a fellow University of Kentucky alumna who has gone on to enjoy great success as an entrepreneur.”
“Bringing a new business to the Commonwealth is always a rewarding venture,” said Lt. Gov. Luallen, “Bringing home a Kentucky native in the process makes this day all the more special. The local connection that Innovative Mattress Solutions has already established by offering a number of Tempur Sealy International Inc. products, and the generosity the company has already shown by giving back to the community, indicates that IMS has a bright future here in Lexington.”
IMS plans to occupy increased office and warehouse distribution space on Jaggie Fox Way, formerly the headquarters for Tempur-Pedic prior to the establishment of Tempur Sealy International Inc. The company needs the larger distribution facility for its Lexington operation since sales growth exceeded the capacity of its current home. The move to the new distribution warehouse will double the company’s existing Lexington distribution center capacity. The 52 jobs created with this project include operations, financing, information technology, marketing, human resources and sales.
“It’s exciting to bring my company’s headquarters to my home state of Kentucky,” said Knopf. “Lexington’s advantageous proximity to our region and its location to our strategic partner, Tempur Sealy International Inc., make it an ideal location for us. Our connection with my alma mater provides us with opportunities for internships and recruitment. We are grateful for the assistance and support we have received from the state, city and Commerce Lexington.”
In addition to the headquarters move, Knopf said IMS and Tempur Sealy International Inc. are donating to a local women’s shelter.
“Tempur Sealy International Inc. is not just a valued business partner, but also a company that shares our passion for giving back to the community,” Knopf said. “On the occasion of this exciting announcement about our headquarters move, we’d like to share some more exciting news. IMS is proud to work with Tempur Sealy International Inc. to deliver to an area women’s shelter more than 40 Tempur-Pedic mattresses, as well as foundations and bed frames donated by IMS. We are committed to providing a great night’s sleep to the residents of the shelter, and look forward to more IMS-Tempur Sealy International Inc. initiatives that will benefit our local communities in the future.”
“Deciding to locate its headquarters in Lexington is a vote of confidence from Innovative Mattress Solutions in our city’s workforce and quality of life,” Mayor Gray said. “Our unemployment rate is among the lowest in the state. Innovative Mattress Solutions is a welcome addition to Lexington, a university city that embraces talent, ideas and an entrepreneurial spirit.”
Shortly after graduating from UK, Kimberly Brown Knopf founded her company, becoming its president and CEO. The Louisville native has continued to grow her company, which now operates 155 retail stores in six states as it continues to expand. Additionally, IMS conducts business as Mattress Warehouse and Mattress King.
“UK alumni succeed in myriad ways, and we’re proud when those alumni choose to bring their talent and expertise back home,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “Kim has built a successful company with Innovative Mattress Solutions, and she maintains a close commitment to her alma mater through collaborations with the Gatton College of Business and Economics and as a mentor to young women in the Gatton College’s Women Business Leaders Program. She’s an excellent role model to young entrepreneurs, and we’re excited to see IMS develop a stronger foundation in central Kentucky.”
“I understand that Innovative Mattress Solutions has been looking to make the move to a permanent distribution center and corporate headquarters in Lexington for some time now, and I am pleased that they have worked something out,” said Sen. Ralph Alvarado, of Winchester. “It is encouraging to see this company’s growth, and the more than 50 jobs they will create in our community is tremendous news.”
“I’m really pleased to see Innovative Mattress Solutions take this step forward and invest further in Fayette County,” said Rep. George Brown, of Lexington. “Today’s announcement shows that our community is continuing to do the right things to help our local businesses grow and to bring others here. I appreciate the work our local and state economic development leaders are doing to create this favorable environment.”
“We are so excited that Innovative Mattress Solutions has ‘bounced’ into Lexington with its new headquarters, new jobs for our community and an economic investment that will impact our region for many years,” said Bob Quick, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “Congratulations to UK alumna Kim Knopf, who is bringing her company back home to the Bluegrass. Our economic development staff is proud to have worked with IMS since 2010, as we explored the opportunity to place its headquarters here. Both UK alumni and headquarter operations are points of emphasis set forth in our economic development strategic plan.”
To encourage the investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved the company for tax incentives up to $750,000 through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the term of the agreement through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
Innovative Mattress Solutions also has received preliminary approval from the City of Lexington for a $250,000 Jobs Fund loan. The Jobs Fund was established to promote high-quality job creation with a focus on relocating primary base operations to Lexington.
In addition, Innovative Mattress Solutions is eligible to receive resources from the Kentucky Skills Network. Through the Kentucky Skills Network, companies are eligible to receive no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job training incentives. Last year, the Kentucky Skills Network trained more than 84,000 employees from more than 4,100 Kentucky companies.
For more information on Innovative Mattress Solutions, visit www.sleepoutfitters.com.
Commerce Lexington Inc. Recognized Among Top Chambers at ACCE Convention in Montreal, Canada
At the annual convention of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives in Montreal, Canada, on August 12, Commerce Lexington Inc. was recognized among the top chambers of commerce in Category 4 of the 2015 Chamber of the Year Award program. ACCE’s Chamber of the Year is the nation’s only award recognizing the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities.
Chambers honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have not only demonstrated organizational strength, but also have made an impact on key community priorities, such as education, transportation, business development and quality of life. Commerce Lexington Inc. was recognized alongside the Myrtle Beach Chamber and the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce.
At the annual convention of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives in Montreal, Canada, on August 12, Commerce Lexington Inc. was recognized among the top chambers of commerce in Category 4 of the 2015 Chamber of the Year Award program. ACCE’s Chamber of the Year is the nation’s only award recognizing the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities.
Chambers honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have not only demonstrated organizational strength, but also have made an impact on key community priorities, such as education, transportation, business development and quality of life. Commerce Lexington Inc. was recognized alongside the Myrtle Beach Chamber and the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce.
Belcan Announces Expansion in Downtown Lexington; Adding 100 Jobs & Investing $1.2 million
Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen and Mayor Jim Gray joined company officials and local leaders on July 28, 2015, to announce the expansion of Belcan Corporation in downtown Lexington.
Belcan, a leading engineering services and technical staffing provider will create 100 jobs and invest $1.2 million into the expansion in the Lexington Vine Center.
“The Belcan story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Kentucky,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “When faced with business challenges, company officials opted to reach outside their current portfolio to grow. I commend their hard work and determination and congratulate them on this achievement.”
“Congratulations to company officials, employees and downtown Lexington,” said Lt. Gov. Crit Luallen. “This is another example of how Kentucky’s pro-business climate allows companies to grow their business and bring new, high-paying jobs to Kentucky.”
Belcan is planning to lease an additional 15,000-square feet in the Vine Center to accommodate the increased number of engineers needed to support our new customer Pratt & Whitney, a commercial and military aerospace gas turbine engine supplier. Belcan opened its Lexington office in 2005 to service a growing aerospace contract with Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
“We are grateful to the Lexington business community and our employees for their efforts and support over the last 10 years,” says Lance Kwasniewski, CEO of Belcan. ”We are looking forward to continued growth in the years ahead.”
“Attracting this outstanding company to our city and helping it grow its aerospace engineering and design center are huge steps forward that tell the world Lexington is a great place to do business,” said Mayor Jim Gray. “Since 2011, Lexington’s unemployment rate has been cut by more than half. Companies are moving here and growing here. Lexington is competing and winning with a high quality of life, outstanding educational opportunities and state and unique local incentives. We work to attract jobs every day.”
Belcan is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio and has more than 6,000 employees in 49 locations serving more than 600 active clients globally. The company is a major supplier of engineering, project management and technical staffing solutions to a wide array of industries.
“It is exciting for our community that Belcan is expanding its Lexington operations, which will create new job opportunities and provide a healthy boost to the local economy,” said Sen. Reginald Thomas of Lexington. “It also speaks highly of our dedicated workforce that this company is willing to make this investment. Belcan is a good corporate neighbor and I look forward to a long, prosperous corporate partnership.”
“I’m really pleased to see Belcan take this step and invest further in our community, because these jobs are exactly the type we’re trying to attract to downtown,” said Rep. Kelly Flood of Lexington. “I want to thank the company’s leaders for moving in this direction, and I appreciate the hard work of Gov. Beshear, his administration and our local leaders in making economic development announcements like this possible.”
“As Belcan celebrates 10 years in Lexington, they continue to add high paying aerospace jobs to the community,” said Bob Quick, CCE, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “We enjoyed working with the Belcan team when they located in 2005 and look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.”
For more information on Belcan, visit www.belcancorporation.com.
Lieutenant Governor Crit Luallen and Mayor Jim Gray joined company officials and local leaders on July 28, 2015, to announce the expansion of Belcan Corporation in downtown Lexington.
Belcan, a leading engineering services and technical staffing provider will create 100 jobs and invest $1.2 million into the expansion in the Lexington Vine Center.
“The Belcan story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Kentucky,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “When faced with business challenges, company officials opted to reach outside their current portfolio to grow. I commend their hard work and determination and congratulate them on this achievement.”
“Congratulations to company officials, employees and downtown Lexington,” said Lt. Gov. Crit Luallen. “This is another example of how Kentucky’s pro-business climate allows companies to grow their business and bring new, high-paying jobs to Kentucky.”
Belcan is planning to lease an additional 15,000-square feet in the Vine Center to accommodate the increased number of engineers needed to support our new customer Pratt & Whitney, a commercial and military aerospace gas turbine engine supplier. Belcan opened its Lexington office in 2005 to service a growing aerospace contract with Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
“We are grateful to the Lexington business community and our employees for their efforts and support over the last 10 years,” says Lance Kwasniewski, CEO of Belcan. ”We are looking forward to continued growth in the years ahead.”
“Attracting this outstanding company to our city and helping it grow its aerospace engineering and design center are huge steps forward that tell the world Lexington is a great place to do business,” said Mayor Jim Gray. “Since 2011, Lexington’s unemployment rate has been cut by more than half. Companies are moving here and growing here. Lexington is competing and winning with a high quality of life, outstanding educational opportunities and state and unique local incentives. We work to attract jobs every day.”
Belcan is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio and has more than 6,000 employees in 49 locations serving more than 600 active clients globally. The company is a major supplier of engineering, project management and technical staffing solutions to a wide array of industries.
“It is exciting for our community that Belcan is expanding its Lexington operations, which will create new job opportunities and provide a healthy boost to the local economy,” said Sen. Reginald Thomas of Lexington. “It also speaks highly of our dedicated workforce that this company is willing to make this investment. Belcan is a good corporate neighbor and I look forward to a long, prosperous corporate partnership.”
“I’m really pleased to see Belcan take this step and invest further in our community, because these jobs are exactly the type we’re trying to attract to downtown,” said Rep. Kelly Flood of Lexington. “I want to thank the company’s leaders for moving in this direction, and I appreciate the hard work of Gov. Beshear, his administration and our local leaders in making economic development announcements like this possible.”
“As Belcan celebrates 10 years in Lexington, they continue to add high paying aerospace jobs to the community,” said Bob Quick, CCE, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. “We enjoyed working with the Belcan team when they located in 2005 and look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.”
For more information on Belcan, visit www.belcancorporation.com.
