USDA Rural Development Invests in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Growth Through Kentucky Highlands Programs

RICHMOND, Ky. (Oct. 26, 2026) - USDA Rural Development presented two funding awards to Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation (KHIC) during a ceremony held at the offices of American Health Management, Inc. in Richmond on October 26, 2026. The awards will support entrepreneurial development, small business growth, and job creation throughout rural Kentucky.

The funding was provided through the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP) and the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG), two key USDA initiatives designed to strengthen rural economies and expand opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

The Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program provides loans and grants to qualified Microenterprise Development Organizations that, in turn, offer microloans, training, and technical assistance to entrepreneurs and small businesses with ten or fewer employees in rural communities. The program is designed to support the development and long-term success of rural microenterprises by improving access to capital and business development services.

The impact of the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program is evident in the success of American Health Management, Inc., which hosted the award presentation. The company received assistance through the program when it employed fewer than 10 people and met the definition of a rural microenterprise. Today, the company employs more than 50 individuals, demonstrating how access to capital, technical assistance, and business support can help rural businesses expand, create jobs, and strengthen local economies. Its growth serves as a powerful example of the long-term value of investing in rural entrepreneurs.

The Rural Business Development Grant program promotes economic development and job creation in rural communities by providing funding for projects that support small and emerging businesses. Grant funds may be used for training, technical assistance, business planning, feasibility studies, equipment, and other initiatives that enhance business growth and strengthen local economies.

Together, these investments will enable Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation to continue its longstanding mission of helping entrepreneurs access financing, technical assistance, and development resources needed to start, grow, and sustain successful businesses throughout the region.

Representatives from federal, state, and local organizations joined KHIC leadership to celebrate the awards and their anticipated impact on rural communities across Eastern and Southern Kentucky.

"These programs represent an important investment in the entrepreneurs, small businesses, and communities that drive Kentucky's rural economy," said Jerry Rickett, President and CEO of Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation. "The continued partnership with USDA Rural Development helps ensure that rural residents have access to the resources necessary to create jobs, build wealth, and strengthen their communities."

Photo Caption

From left: Mark Bolinger, Vice President of Lending at Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation; Travis Burton, Director of USDA Rural Development Kentucky; Jerry Rickett, President and CEO of Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation; Kelly Upchurch, President and CEO of American Health Management, Inc.; Senator Jared Carpenter, Kentucky State Senate; and Craig Shockley, field representative for Congressman Andy Barr, following the presentation of USDA Rural Development funding through the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program and the Rural Business Development Grant at the offices of American Health Management, Inc. in Richmond, Kentucky, on October 26, 2026.