Mountain Association Launches Grow EKY Loan Fund
The new fund pairs reduced-fee financing with one-on-one business coaching for eligible enterprises across Eastern Kentucky.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Mountain Association has launched the Grow EKY Loan Fund, which combines reduced-fee financing with one-on-one business coaching. The fund targets enterprises that may struggle to access capital and technical assistance needed to expand, meet community needs, or weather disruptions.
Why it matters
The fund seeks to serve businesses that face barriers to capital and technical help in Eastern Kentucky. Support is aimed at helping enterprises expand operations and meet local needs.
The players
Mountain Association
Mountain Association is a nonprofit organization based in Eastern Kentucky that works on economic development and community support initiatives in the region.
The details
Eligible organizations receive reduced-fee financing alongside tailored coaching from experienced business advisors and industry experts. The fund serves neighborhood grocers, farmers, childcare providers, plumbers, electricians, contractors, and disaster recovery organizations, and includes free energy assessments.
Timeline
Article announcing the Grow EKY Loan Fund launch was published November 2, 2026.
Philanthropy Landscape
Mountain Association's Grow EKY Loan Fund extends the organization's regional development work into direct lending paired with business coaching. The model blends concessional capital with technical assistance for enterprises that traditional lenders may overlook in Eastern Kentucky.
Eligible Eastern Kentucky enterprises can access reduced-fee financing and up to five hours of free technical assistance for solar and energy-efficiency upgrades. Organizations in housing, food access, childcare, or disaster recovery may qualify for one-on-one business support.
The takeaway
Enterprises that lack access to capital or technical help can pursue both financing and coaching through a single program. Businesses in the four focus sectors should review eligibility before seeking alternative funding.
Further reading
Explore more Philanthropy coverage for context on how nonprofit lending programs support regional business growth in Kentucky.
More information
Learn about eligibility and apply through the Grow EKY Fund application and information page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hazard-herald.
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Do you think small local businesses in your area are getting the support they need to survive?
