BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The Martin County Economic Development Authority (EDA) approved a grant application that could provide micro-grants and training to local entrepreneurs. EDA Director Carolea Mills presented the proposal during a Feb. 11 meeting.
Mills asked the board to authorize her to apply to the Appalachian Kentucky Civic Experiment Grant Program.
Offered through the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky in Hazard, the program supports community-led projects that strengthen civic life and address local challenges across the region. Funding comes from the Trust for Civic Life, a sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. A total of $90,000 will be awarded statewide.
“It would be a mini-grant,” Mills said. “We would apply for $20,000.”
If awarded, Mills said half of the grant would provide 10 local businesses with $1,000 micro-grants. The program would also offer technical assistance to help identify specific needs such as visibility through signage, technology tools, or the ability to sell products online.
“We would really target it toward the tourism industry,” said Mills. “That’s what they’re focused on. It’s a very competitive grant; we may not get it.”
She emphasized the program would not require any financial contribution from the EDA.
“Part of healthy communities is to have strong small businesses,” added Mills.
To outline the concept, Mills provided board members with a two-page handout titled “CO.STARTERS Martin County: Civic Entrepreneurship + Micro-Grants for Local Business Activation.”
According to that document, Thrive Community Partners LLC would operate the program over a six- to nine-month period. It would use a hybrid format with virtual sessions, one in-person session and an in-person graduation.
The EDA would potentially provide support through meeting space, marketing amplification and mentorship.
Mills’ proposal describes the effort as a pilot that could position Martin County for future investment.
Thrive Community Partners LLC is based in Van Buren, Ohio. According to its website, its Martin County partners already include the Martin County Fiscal Court, the Martin County Health Department and Thrive Community Coalition of Inez.
Other business
In other business, the EDA elected its officers for the upcoming calendar year, retaining the same leadership. James Ayers will continue as chairman, Ryan Wilson as vice chairman, Ryan Howell as treasurer, and Eddie Lee Howell as secretary.
Mills also reported that the EDA expects to save about $1,500 annually after switching its internet service to Starlink.
“It’s better service, more reliable,” Mills said. “It’s a savings and a step in the right direction.”
The board voted to renew a two-year contract with HMC for speculative building HVAC maintenance at $6,262 annually.