KENTUCKY SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER
in Southeastern KY
Kentucky SBDC in Southeastern KY
Serving the Counties of: Adair, Bell, Casey, Clay, Clinton, Cumberland, Harlan, Jackson, Knox, Laurel, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, McCreary, Perry, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, Wayne and Whitley
The Kentucky SBDC in Southeastern KY provides one-on-one coaching at no cost to existing and potential entrepreneurs. The center also meets the educational needs of the local small business community by offering a variety of low cost training programs taught by industry experts and qualified SBDC Coaches.
Rodney Kuhl
Center Director
Rodney joined the Kentucky SBDC in November 2019. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Kentucky University in Public Relations and Business. Rodney has over thirty years of banking experience in assisting businesses with startup capital, operational capital, equipment financing, budgeting, financial analysis and strategic planning. He has worked with small business start-ups and large corporations in funding expansions and buyouts of existing businesses.
Rodney’s entrepreneurship experience started while he was in high school providing DJ services. Other areas of entrepreneurship has been with rental properties and a restaurant. Rodney is also an active REALTOR as well as a Life, Health, Property and Casualty insurance agent.
Rodney is active in his community as Co-Chair of Upper Cumberland Community Foundation, Board member of God’s Pantry Food Bank-Southeast, founding member of the Leadership Collective and Immanuel Baptist Church.
Rodney spends his time with family and friends camping as well as cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats in football, baseball and basketball. As a hobby he also enjoys making homemade ice cream to share.
Kyle Mann
Business Coach
Dr. Kyle Mann brings 4 years of experience working as a dentist providing high-quality dental care to rural Kentuckians. In addition to dentistry, Kyle is a passionate entrepreneur who has founded and operates UpScore Test Prep, www.upscoretestprep.com. This innovative educational platform and online ACT review course are specifically designed to support rural and disadvantaged students in their journey to succeed in college.
Kyle holds a BS degree in Biochemistry from Western Kentucky University and a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry.
With his technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, Kyle aspires to help other Kentuckians start, maintain, and grow their small businesses.
Kyle enjoys pursuing his passion of running, indulging in life-long learning, and cherishing quality time with friends and family.
Leslie Lester
Business Coach
Leslie Lester is a self-motivated woman who wears many hats. As a lifelong resident of Monticello, Leslie possesses boundless passion and innovation for her small business and community. A prestigious KY BRIGHT Leadership program graduate and a 40 under 40 honoree, Leslie is driven and focused on her community’s success.
Her dedication as a citizen of Monticello and Wayne County sets her apart, with each new venture revealing her gift for spotting opportunities and using her knowledge and skills to bring these ideas to life. As a passionate advocate for community change, Leslie has spearheaded numerous initiatives to inspire growth in her community. These efforts led to her receiving the Monticello – Wayne County Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen Award in 2024. Her compassion and drive have enabled her to make a meaningful impact on her community and everyone she connects with. Her tireless efforts continue to inspire those around her and bring much-needed resources to her community.
Leslie’s passion for service demonstrates that one person can be a catalyst for positive change. When she’s not helping her husband Brandon on their family farm, this devoted wife wrangles three kiddos: Bo, Corbyn, and Duncan.
Contact Us
Kentucky SBDC in Southeastern KY
440 Old Whitley Rd, Suite 101
London, KY 40744
(606) 401-0777
NEWS
New consultants in the Morehead State District
Mike Jackson and Rachel Bowling join the Kentucky SBDC Network Eastern Kentucky small business owners have double the support with two new business consultants. Mike