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Bluegrass Entrepreneurial Environment Study

October 1, 2008

The University of Kentucky, Commerce Lexington and the city of Lexington had this study performed.  The study interviewed a set of handpicked companies and had an additonal questionnaire filled out by a larger group of companies.  The study uncovered some interesting demographic data on high-tech startups in this area and also identified the areas with which the bluegrass region has an advantage.  First on that list is quality of Life, second is cost of doing business is low.  A few of the negatives espoused, I think, are just old stereotypes of Lexington that reality would refute.  Many here bemoan a lack of arts events and culture but many entrepreneurs who have relocated to Lexington list this as one of the strengths of the area.  I think this reflects the bias that local people often hold.  The grass must be greener eslewhere.  

The real negative in the study were the recommendations and action items.  No mention was given on supporting grass roots efforts, or the use of technology, blogging, twitter, co-working, etc.  I think this proves my point that large beaurocracies and governments cannot effectively create an entrepreneurial culture.  They can help create an environment favorable to entrepreneurism but without grass roots efforts like those of the Spring Stage Network & Kentucky Startup Blog, and other catalysts within the community, the culture will not develop.

If you would like to read the full report, This are the links to the presentation, company profiles, and the data.

Written by Richard Stump · Filed Under Blog, Politics, Startups 

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