At CREATE, our programs are designed to bring people together around ideas, opportunity, and action. From casual coffee conversations and peer networking to summits, hackathons, and industry-focused councils, each program is built to support entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders at every stage of growth. Whether you’re just getting started, scaling a venture, or looking to connect with others shaping the future of our region, our programs create space to learn, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships that strengthen Kentucky’s innovation and small business ecosystem. For a list of CREATE’s upcoming events, please view our calendar.
Small Business Summit
Connecting Ideas. Driving Growth. Empowering Small Business
Each November the Small Business Summit brings together entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry leaders for a dynamic day of connection, learning, and growth. Designed as a strategic platform, the summit empowers businesses to share ideas, discover new opportunities, and strengthen their impact in the small business community.
Regional Technology Council
Where Tech Minds Connect and Innovate
The Regional Technology Council brings together technology professionals across our region to learn, connect, and grow. Established in 2024 through a partnership between the CREATE at WKU’s Innovation Campus and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, the Council is all about building a strong tech community and helping organizations use technology as a strategic advantage.
Each year, we host a variety of events and programs, including our Regional Technology Summit, interactive meetups, and hands-on learning experiences—giving members the chance to share knowledge, spark ideas, and collaborate on the technologies shaping our future.
For more information visit the RTC here.
Hackathon
Innovate Fast. Solve Big. Create Together.
An intense, fast-paced event where teams come together to solve real-world problems, build innovative apps, and bring creative projects to life—all in under 8 hours. This isn’t about hacking computers; it’s about hacking solutions, pushing boundaries, and turning ideas into action.
Narrative Network
This community meetup is designed to bring together creatives who play a key role in storytelling and innovation—designers, photographers, videographers, writers, PR professionals, artists, musicians, and makers. The meetup focuses primarily on networking, collaboration, and open conversation, helping creatives connect with one another and with broader economic development efforts.
StartupGarden
Where Ideas Take Root and Entrepreneurs Grow
The StartupGarden, is where innovation blooms! This dynamic series brings together startups, entrepreneurs, business leaders, technologists, and creatives to share their journeys, lessons learned, and bold ideas. In partnership with the Regional Tech Council and the Narrative Network, the StartupGarden bridges entrepreneurship, technology, and creativity—creating a space where ideas cross-pollinate and collaboration thrives. It’s a place for innovators, aspiring entrepreneurs, and business enthusiasts to connect, get inspired, and exchange insights. Whether you’re seeking practical advice, new perspectives, or a spark of creativity, the StartupGarden is your opportunity to grow your network and nurture your entrepreneurial spirit.