A planned entrepreneurship hub in downtown Owensboro has secured $2.25 million in state funding, a milestone local leaders say will help create a collaborative space for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses.
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) announced Tuesday that The Landing Entrepreneurship Center received the funding through Kentucky’s 2026-28 state budget. The center is planned to be located in the historic Turley Building at 101 Daviess Street through a future partnership with the City of Owensboro.
The Landing is envisioned as a hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and business growth, featuring flexible coworking space, meeting rooms, and collaborative work areas. It will also serve as the home of the Kentucky Small Business Development Center, bringing business coaching, technical assistance, and access to capital together in one location.
GOEDC officials said the project is intended to strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem while supporting long-term economic development.
According to GOEDC, about 2,800 Daviess County residents currently work remotely, reflecting continued growth in flexible and location-independent careers. Community leaders believe expanded coworking and entrepreneurial resources will help retain local talent while attracting additional entrepreneurs, remote workers, and creative professionals.
“The Landing represents an investment in Owensboro’s future,” GOEDC President and CEO Claude Bacon said. “We’re grateful to our legislative delegation for their partnership and support as together we create a space for entrepreneurs, innovators, and remote professionals to connect and grow.”
Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson said the project will help support residents looking to turn ideas into businesses.
“As I’ve said many times, you never stay the same; you either get better or you get worse,” Watson said. “The Landing is certainly a step in the right direction. Giving people with a great idea the support they need to turn it into reality is a good thing, and I look forward to seeing the opportunities it creates.”
Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen said the center has the potential to foster collaboration among entrepreneurs and remote workers.
“The Landing Entrepreneurship Center has untold potential for our community by bringing entrepreneurs and remote workers together, allowing them to learn from one another, collaborate on projects, and expand their business footprints,” Castlen said.
Members of the local legislative delegation also praised the project.
State Rep. Suzanne Miles said the center represents “the kind of strategic investment that helps communities grow from within,” adding that it will provide entrepreneurs with the resources and connections needed to succeed while helping attract new businesses and jobs to the region.
State Rep. DJ Johnson said small business owners are “the very foundation of a thriving economy” and said The Landing will provide facilities and resources for both new and established entrepreneurs.
State Sen. Gary Boswell said lawmakers prioritized several Owensboro projects during the budget process and expressed hope the center will help spur job creation.
Beyond providing workspace, The Landing is expected to host networking events, mentorship opportunities, workshops, entrepreneurial training, and other business programming. GOEDC officials also expect the facility to increase daily activity and foot traffic for downtown restaurants, retailers, and other businesses.
The project funding was included in the Commonwealth’s 2026-28 budget through the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. Additional details about the project’s timeline and future development phases are expected to be announced as planning continues.
