The Central Region Ecosystem for Arts, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (CREATE) is a dynamic nonprofit organization based at the Western Kentucky University (WKU) Innovation Campus in Bowling Green, Kentucky. As one of six regional KY Innovation Hubs, CREATE exemplifies the state's strategic initiative to cultivate vibrant regional innovation clusters and stimulate economic growth across all 120 counties.
By modernizing support for entrepreneurs and high-potential startups, the KY Innovation Hubs leverage each region's unique strengths, fostering collaboration among universities, established companies, industry sectors and various public and private organizations. This united approach not only enhances resources available to business founders but also creates a dynamic ecosystem that drives innovation and accelerates the development of high-tech ventures throughout the commonwealth.
What makes CREATE truly unique is that this initiative aims to foster collaboration among artists, technologists and entrepreneurs, creating a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures innovation and creativity. By leveraging the resources and expertise available at WKU, CREATE provides a platform for individuals and organizations to connect, share ideas and develop projects that blend art and technology. This multidisciplinary approach not only enhances individual skillsets but also contributes to the region's overall economic development.
As a cornerstone of Bowling Green’s creative landscape, CREATE plays a vital role in positioning the region as a leader in innovative thinking and collaboration. In 2022, CREATE co-launched the WKU Collaborative SmartSpace, a 30,000-square-foot collaborative space for creative and strategy talent.
Sam Ford, Culture & Innovation Fellow at CREATE, explained in the Fall 2022 issue of WKU Spirit Magazine that the CREATE ecosystem serves as a catalyst for economic development by fostering collaboration and innovation among diverse sectors, including technology, entrepreneurship and the arts. This often leads to the development of unique products and services that can attract both local and national attention and boost the region’s reputation as a hotbed for innovation.
CREATE reinforces Bowling Green’s position as the connective tissue between Louisville and Nashville. Businesses and organizations such as the Kentucky APEX Accelerator, Holley Performance Products, the Metals Innovation Initiative (MI2), Logan Aluminum, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Kentucky to the World, AccelerateKY, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the University of Southern California have all established a presence at CREATE during the past two years. These partnerships with state, national and international industry leaders provide collaborative research and learning opportunities that enable WKU students, faculty and staff to participate in real-world inquiry and problem-solving initiatives.
CREATE also emphasizes mentorship and support, helping emerging artists and tech innovators turn their ideas into viable ventures. By engaging local businesses, educational institutions and creative professionals, CREATE cultivates a nurturing environment where creativity can flourish and drive meaningful change. The cross-pollination of ideas across disciplines not only enriches the local culture but also contributes to the establishment of a vibrant creative economy.
Moreover, CREATE supports workforce development by offering educational programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities that equip individuals with essential skills in arts, technology and business. By investing in talent development, CREATE fosters a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of modern industries. This focus on education and skill-building not only prepares individuals for successful careers but also encourages retention of local talent, reducing brain drain and ensuring that the region remains competitive in the broader economy. As startups and creative enterprises emerge, they often generate jobs and stimulate additional economic activity, leading to a cycle of growth.
Finally, CREATE works to enhance the overall quality of life in the Bowling Green region, making it more attractive to residents, businesses and investors. A vibrant arts scene and a culture of innovation can draw in tourism and encourage local spending while thriving tech and entrepreneurial sectors can lead to increased investment and infrastructure development. Promoting creativity and technological advancement not only diversifies the economic base but also builds a more resilient economy that can adapt to changing market conditions. Ultimately, hubs like CREATE play a critical role in shaping a sustainable economic future for their region.
So what makes an ideal client for CREATE? An ideal client is one with a vision and mission but not necessarily a means to take the desired steps forward. That is where the CREATE team steps in! Their networking and educational events, Collaborative SmartSpace, talent database and other resources provide individuals and startups with both a support system and a pathway toward sustainable growth.
To learn more about CREATE, visit their website at https://create-ic.com. You can also connect directly with the CREATE team at the email addresses below:
Buddy Steen, CEO of WKU Innovation Campus - buddy.steen@wku.edu
Jeff Hook, Director of the Small Business Accelerator at WKU Innovation Campus – william.hook@wku.edu
Sam Ford, Culture & Innovation Fellow – samfordky@gmail.com