Founded in 1987, KSTC is a fast-paced leader in advancing the Kentucky region's economy through various initiatives, including education, economic competitiveness, and scientific research. Their investment arm, Keyhorse Capital, supports this mission by investing in start-up and small businesses, academic researchers, and students and educators across Kentucky. KSTC's programs include AdvanceKentucky, Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation, Kentucky Commercialization Ventures, Kentucky APEX Accelerator, KY VALOR, Kentucky Intellectual Property Alliance, and management of the KY Innovation Hubs. Additionally, KSTC has launched several successful initiatives, such as IdeaFestival, Governor's School for Entrepreneurs, Startup Labs, Kentucky Innovation Network, Kentucky Space LLC, SpaceTango, and the SBIR-STTR Matching Funds Program.