September thru November 2021 (Lexington, KY) - The University of Kentucky’s Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurship (VACE) is co-sponsoring the Launchpad Lex Speaker Series, an opportunity for Lexington area entrepreneurs, small businesses, and founders to come together to be inspired by building community and sharing stories.

Kentucky is known for entrepreneurs who have a passion for developing great craft beer and other spirits. The first event “Entrepreneurship in the Brewery Industry” will be held from 5-7 p.m. on September 22. Speakers include Andrew Bishop, owner of Ethereal Brewing; Kore Donnelly, co-founder of Blue Stallion Brewing Company; and Daniel Harrison, brand manager at Country Boy Brewing.

“In keeping with the strategic plan of the Gatton College of Business and Economics,the Launchpad Lex Speaker Series is part of our mission to strengthen Kentucky’s economy through entrepreneurship and business outreach in the Commonwealth,” said Warren Nash, executive director of VACE.

The second event will be held from 5-7 p.m. on October 13 and feature a fireside conversation on “Building Entrepreneurship in the Community with NoLi Community Development Corporation and Julietta Market.” Speakers include Andrea James, executive director of North Limestone Community Development Corporation; Adina Tatum, director of operations at Juliette Market; and Norma Smith, founder and owner of xNorma.

The final event will be held from 5-7 p.m. on November 3 and feature a conversation on “Increasing Academic Outreach by Embracing an Entrepreneurial Mindset.” Speakers include Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani, economics professor at Northern Kentucky University and Dr. Darshak Patel, economics professor at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics.

Moderated by Ei District, the three-part series will be offered on September 22, October 13, and November 13 taking place at Ethereal Brewing at Cornerstone located on 401 South Limestone. Registration is free and includes one food ticket sponsored by VACE and one beverage ticket for Ethereal Brewing sponsored by The Econ Games. Due to Covid restrictions, this series could change to a Live Zoom format. Registration is required at VACE.