2025 Green Business Innovation Forum Recap
Presented by Bluegrass Greensource
The 2025 Green Business Innovation Forum, held on October 14th, was a vibrant gathering of business leaders, sustainability professionals, and community stakeholders from across Central Kentucky. The day was marked by strong attendance, meaningful dialogue, and actionable insights—underscoring the region’s growing commitment to sustainable business practices.
After breakfast, and networking, Paulette Akers, Chair of the Bluegrass Greensource Board, opened the forum with remarks on the importance of partnership and innovation in advancing green business. The first panel, “The Economic Case for Sustainability & Community Examples,” featured Dr. Serenity Wright (University of Kentucky), Gabrielle Blocher (Sunflower Fuels), and Brian Berry (Rumpke), moderated by Ally Hall (Franklin County Fiscal Court). Attendees heard how sustainability investments are translating into economic opportunity, community revitalization, and competitive advantage.
The morning’s breakout session offered three focused tracks on sustainable progress—covering solar incentives, walkability’s business benefits, and industrial recycling—giving participants flexible, practical options. Following a keynote by Landon Borders (GAME Change) and a networking lunch, the second breakout segment invited businesses to bring utility bills and work hands-on with energy experts to uncover savings and operational improvements. This session emphasized real-world application and measurable impact.
Later in the day, Panel II – Marketing Your Sustainability Story, with Nancy Wiser (Wiser Strategies), Arin Arnold-Davis (VisitLEX), and Kelly Hieronymus (West Sixth), moderated by Kevin Baldridge (James B. Beam Institute), explored how organizations can communicate their sustainability efforts authentically and compellingly.
Amy Sohner, Executive Director of Bluegrass Greensource, closed the forum with remarks celebrating collaboration, vision, and the shared responsibility of sustaining environmental and economic health in our communities. The official program concluded with a relaxed Happy Hour at West Sixth, where new connections were solidified and ideas continued flowing.
Sponsors & Supporters
This year’s event was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Terracon, LG&E KU, Republic Bank, Kentucky American Water, Coca-Cola Consolidated, WUKY, and Transylvania University.