PIKEVILLE, Ky. — Sabrina McWhorter has been named a Business and Innovation Champion of SOAR Innovation. She will serve Rowan, Boyd, Carter, Greenup, and Lawrence counties.

SOAR Innovation is a partnership between Shaping our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR) and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development’s KY Innovation office. SOAR Innovation assists existing small businesses and entrepreneurs whose business or idea has the capability to expand in existing markets or create new markets by leveraging technology.

“As a small business owner herself, Sabrina understands the challenges and complexities that fellow entrepreneurs may face,” said Ryan Jones, director of SOAR Innovation. “She is passionate about the region and is excited to use her experience and knowledge to help advance Appalachia Kentucky forward.”

McWhorter spent almost a decade as a Veterinary Technician before she took the plunge and decided to open and run a small business. With no background in business ownership, she leveraged technology to further her knowledge and grow her clientele. Through her personal experience, she developed a passion for helping other businesses succeed and grow.

“I hope to be the person I wish I would have had when I first opened my store,” said McWhorter. “My goal is to fully utilize SOAR’s network of resources to help small businesses reach their full potential. It will be an honor to support these communities and showcase the talents of the hardworking people that live in Eastern Kentucky.”

As a Business and Innovation Champion, McWhorter will work throughout her service area to identify and build relationships with existing small businesses that have the desire and capacity to scale-up utilizing technology through methods of e-commerce, export, etc.

For more information about SOAR Innovation, visit soarinnovation.tech or connect on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

McWhorter can be reached at (606) 939-1707 or by email at sabrina@soar-ky.org.