LifeSciKY, Kentucky’s pioneering nonprofit lab incubator, has unveiled a significant opportunity for burgeoning biotech ventures: a fully sponsored lab bench designed to propel early-stage research into market-ready solutions.

This groundbreaking initiative is powered by an innovative collaboration, notably through funds generated from an exclusive single barrel bourbon release in partnership with New Riff Distilling. Crucially, a matching donation from Blue North, Northern Kentucky’s innovation hub, amplifies the program’s impact, underscoring a regional commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth.

Blue North’s contribution is a testament to its dedication to reducing barriers for entrepreneurs, leveraging the Northern Kentucky Entrepreneur Fund. Since its inception in 2023, this fund has successfully channeled over $500,000 in support to more than 40 entrepreneurs, demonstrating its vital role in the ecosystem.

Beyond the state-of-the-art lab bench at LifeSciKY’s Covington facility, the selected entrepreneur will gain an invaluable coworking membership to SparkHaus. This additional benefit, generously sponsored by St. Elizabeth Healthcare, ensures access to a vibrant community hub designed for networking, collaboration, and inspiration.

Dr. Christin Godale, Executive Director of LifeSciKY, expressed profound gratitude to the collaborating partners, emphasizing the collective power of community support in cultivating Northern Kentucky as a fertile ground for innovators. She highlighted the lab bench sponsorship as an unparalleled chance for early-stage entrepreneurs to advance their journey and urged timely applications.

Dave Knox, Executive Director of Blue North, echoed the sentiment regarding community and resources, stressing that SparkHaus offers more than just physical space; it provides a supportive network essential for connection and creative breakthroughs. He eagerly anticipates the innovations that will emerge from this dynamic environment.

Inspired by Kentucky’s rich history of innovation, particularly in the bourbon industry, LifeSciKY is also preparing for the grand opening of its expansive 15,000-square-foot state-of-the-art lab later this year within the OneNKY Center. This expansion reinforces LifeSciKY’s overarching mission: to establish Kentucky as a nationally recognized hub for life sciences innovation, empowering entrepreneurs to thrive and elevate the entire regional ecosystem.

Applications for this prestigious sponsored lab bench are currently open, with a closing date of August 31, 2025. A distinguished panel comprising representatives from New Riff Distilling and Blue North will undertake the selection process, with the recipient slated for announcement in mid-September, strategically timed before LifeSciKY’s new lab opening.