October 15, 2026. More than 50 board members, community leaders, elected officials, partners, and guests joined Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation (KHIC) on October 15 for the organization’s annual Board and Guest Bus Tour, a day-long journey showcasing the entrepreneurs, manufacturers, agricultural producers, and community development projects driving economic growth across eastern Kentucky.
The tour provided participants with a first-hand look at the impact of Kentucky Highlands’ lending, technical assistance, and community development efforts while highlighting the resilience and innovation of businesses throughout the region.
The day began in London with a visit to DTS Industries, where guests were welcomed by company leadership and local officials. Participants learned about the company’s engineering innovations and products. The group then traveled to Bear Precision Coatings, where they gained insight into durable automotive window frame coatings. A third manufacturing stop at Phillips Diversified showcased advancements in electronics and circuit boards.
Following the morning industry visits, attendees traveled to the Clay County Community Center, aka Crawdad Facility, for lunch and a series of presentations featuring local entrepreneurs and community leaders. Several business owners shared their success stories and discussed how KHIC financing helped their ventures launch, expand, or improve operations, including:
- Riverside Corgis (Next Step Loan Recipient)
- Acres of Grace Farm (SOAR Farm Loan Recipient)
- Krisnick Auto Parts, represented by Russ Vanover
- K&S Laundry Mat, represented by Kris Smith
- Community Connection, represented by Jennifer Jackson
The afternoon continued with a visit to Cornett Enterprises Farm, where guests learned about the company’s operations and its contribution to the local economy.
The final stop of the day was Cornett Farm Fresh, where participants enjoyed presentations from several business owners and agricultural entrepreneurs:
- Ruth Sizemore, SOAR Farm Loan Recipient
- Wayne Riley, SOAR Farm Loan Recipient
- Jay White, owner of J & K Heavy Haul
- Craig Tincher, owner of Party Palace
- Lyndsey Hampton, recipient of a KHIC Micro Loan for Celebration of Life services
- Michelle Hamm, representing Highlands Diversified Services
Each shared the challenges and successes of operating a business in rural Kentucky and the importance of access to capital and development support.
Strengthening Rural Communities
“The annual bus tour provides an invaluable opportunity for our board members and guests to see firsthand how investments are transforming communities across our service area,” said Bill Singleton, KHIC Board Chairman. “The entrepreneurs and businesses featured throughout the day represent the determination, creativity, and commitment that continue to drive economic opportunity in eastern Kentucky.”
The organization extends its appreciation to all host businesses, community partners, elected officials, and guests who helped make the 2026 Board and Guest Bus Tour a success. Their collaboration and commitment to regional prosperity continue to strengthen the economic future of eastern Kentucky.