Economic Development

From the Foundation’s first needs assessment study, economic development & job creation has been ranked as the primary need in Muhlenberg County, with these results replicated in community surveys conducted by Muhlenberg’s More Vision Committee, the Muhlenberg County Extension/UK, Owensboro Health, and Pennyrile Area Development District/Community Services. Realizing the interconnected nature of economic development, the Foundation promotes economic development through most of its initiatives including community development and quality of life initiatives, workforce development and education initiatives, and health & substance use initiatives.  However, the Foundation has also committed funding to direct support of the County’s economic development initiatives though some of the programs detailed below.

Recognizing the need for an organization focused on economic development, the Foundation worked with County leaders to help establish Muhlenberg Economic Growth Alliance, and continues to provide significant annual operating funds for the organization.  Working with a Board of local leaders from diverse industries, MEGA focuses on growing Muhlenberg's economy through marketing of County assets to encourage new industry, as well as supporting expansion and retention of current industry. To grow new businesses, MEGA  hosts educational seminars and provides other resources for local entrepreneurs.  Working with MEGA, the Foundation has also provided short-term, low interest loans to catalyze projects expanding local businesses.

In order to attract new businesses to Muhlenberg County, prospective businesses must also be confident in the strength of the available workforce.  The Foundation invests in programs focused on developing the highly skilled workforce required in today’s competitive economy.  Programs aimed at improving educational attainment, workforce development, soft skills development and internet availability hope to build the strength of the local workforce and  improve prospects for personal prosperity for Muhlenberg residents.  In recent years, in partnership with Madisonville Community College and other local organizations, the Foundation has provided support to build an aviation training program, as well as new high school career pathways such as Advanced Integrated Manufacturing. With recent support for hands-on Career Exploration Labs, the Foundation's workforce development support has extended to programs for middle and elementary students.

As a key element of the Foundation's workforce development efforts, the Foundation also created and manages the Muhlenberg Achieves program.  Working with community partners including Muhlenberg County Schools, Adult Education programs, Madisonville Community College and the Muhlenberg Job Corps, Muhlenberg Achieves focuses on providing access and opportunities focused on helping residents achieve degrees and credentials, building an outstanding workforce for Muhlenberg County.