Louisville’s entrepreneurial landscape is vibrant, offering a wealth of resources to support local businesses at every stage. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling an existing venture, the city provides numerous programs designed to foster growth and innovation.
Forcht Center for Entrepreneurship
Established in 2008, the Forcht Center at the University of Louisville College of Business offers comprehensive programs to develop entrepreneurial skills. Recognized nationally, it provides both graduate and undergraduate programs tailored for aspiring business leaders.
Vogt Invention & Innovation Awards
Celebrating its 26th year, the Vogt Awards offer early-stage businesses $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding, a 10-week accelerator program, mentorship, and strategic introductions. Applications for the 2026 cohort are open until June 5.
Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Program
The University of Louisville’s I-Corps Program partners faculty, staff, and students with entrepreneurial mentors to identify market opportunities for new technologies. Support includes mentorship, networking, training, and funding.
Power to Prosper Business Accelerator
Offered by Greater Louisville Inc., this cohort-based program provides executive education and management training to help small businesses scale. Valued at over $15,000 per participant, it’s provided free of charge, focusing on business operations, financial management, marketing, and more.
Amped Business Accelerator
Located in West Louisville, the Amped Business Accelerator supports Black and Latinx entrepreneurs with business development training, assessments, referrals, and wraparound services. Participants receive coaching, mental health counseling, and access to seed capital.
Louisville Urban League’s Center for Entrepreneurship
Serving as a gateway for Black business owners, the Center offers education, business coaching, financial guidance, and connections to resources. It aims to support businesses in starting, stabilizing, and scaling their operations.
Amplify Louisville
Amplify Louisville connects entrepreneurs with resources, connections, and support to flourish. It offers events, guides to capital, co-working spaces, and a jobs board, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
These programs exemplify Louisville’s commitment to nurturing its entrepreneurial community, providing the tools and support necessary for businesses to thrive.