“I am truly honored to be named Kentucky’s Small Business Advocate of the Year. However, I can’t take all the credit. What we do at SKED is a team effort. Kyle Smith (SKED small business training specialist) and I have spent countless hours creating and improving Entrepreneurial SMARTS and Be Boss Online; without his assistance and contributions, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Amanda Kelly, small business training director

2020 SBA Kentucky Small Business Advocate

“We loved working with the folks at SKED. They made the process smooth, answered all of our questions and went above and beyond in helping us make connections with other coffee shop owners.”

Maria Hopper, owner
Happy Hoppers Coffee & More

“Thanks to SKED, Hurley Electrical Contracting is thriving as a female-owned business. We have been able to expand and provide employment within our region. The dedication and professionalism demonstrated by SKED staff has given us the opportunity to see our dream become a reality.””

Carolyn Hurley, president
Hurley Electrical Contracting, LLC

“SKED provided us at B&H Cleaning, LLC a better way to serve Pulaski County and surrounding areas with all of their financial and technical support.

Brent and Helena Delp, co-owners
B&H Cleaning, LLC

“As a first-time female business owner, I found that SKED was willing to work with me and championed my concept of bringing the cultural and arts heritage of the Kentucky mountains to bigger markets. Because of their micro loan funding, I was not forced to focus soley on financial viability but able to promote the double bottom line of supporting artists and emerging economies in the region, while also building my gallery.”

Sky Marietta, owner
Moonbow at Second & Main