University of Kentucky and Turner Construction Announce Major Enhancements to Construction Business Accelerator Program for 2027
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 6, 2026) — Applications for the 2027 Construction Business Accelerator opened Nov. 6, and the program will feature a redesigned curriculum with a stronger focus on financial management and bid development.The program begins in March 2027 following participant onboarding and orientation.
The University of Kentucky and OneUK partner Turner Construction Company announced the changes after an evaluation of the program’s first five years. The evaluation, sponsored by the UK Office of Economic Engagement and conducted by local consulting firm Invox LLC, gathered feedback from participants, community partners, presenters, evaluators and business resource partners.
Since its launch, the accelerator has helped small and emerging construction-related businesses strengthen their operations, build industry relationships and pursue new contracts. The evaluation found 90% of participants reported positive experiences, and many graduates cited business growth, increased revenue, workforce expansion, certifications and contract awards after completing the program.
Networking remained among the program’s greatest strengths. Participants said connections with contractors, procurement professionals, construction managers and business support organizations were among the most valuable outcomes. Most industry partners said accelerator graduates are well prepared to pursue commercial construction opportunities.
The study also identified areas for improvement. Community and industry partners said financial stability, cash flow management, profitability analysis and business acumen are critical to helping contractors grow and compete for larger projects. The study also pointed to a need for more support in estimating, bidding strategy, scheduling and bonding readiness.
In response, the 2027 curriculum places greater emphasis on business fundamentals. New and expanded coursework will cover construction accounting, cash flow management, job costing, profitability and other financial factors that affect business decisions and project success.
Participants also will take part in expanded mock bid activities, including a “Situation Room” simulation and a panel-style bid review that mirrors real-world contracting. The exercises are designed to give contractors experience with procurement requirements, competitive bid preparation and project challenges before they pursue actual contracts.
Other changes include a more clearly defined target audience, deeper collaboration with the UK College of Engineering and more engagement with alumni and community partners throughout the year. Program leaders said the changes also will improve their ability to measure and communicate participants’ long-term business outcomes.
The research found the program is best suited for owners of Kentucky-registered construction trade contracting businesses with about $250,000 to $2 million in annual gross revenue who want to strengthen their financial management, estimating, bidding and overall operations to pursue larger or more complex projects. Businesses outside this profile are encouraged to apply.
The community partners for 2027 are:
- Associated General Contractors
- Bullard
- Commerce Lexington
- Fayette County Public Schools
- Kentucky APEX Accelerator
- Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
- Louisville Human Relations Commission
- Lynn Imaging
- Messer Construction
- UK Economic Development Collaborative
- UK Economic Engagement
- UK Federal Credit Union
- UK Procurement Services
“Having been involved with the CBA program since its inception, I’m especially excited about the enhancements we’re introducing in 2027,” said Kristen Smitherman-Voltaire, community and citizenship director for Turner Construction. “Our goal in conducting the research study was to build on an already successful program by listening to the people who know it best — our community partners and alumni. Their insights have directly shaped the changes we’re making, and I’m confident they’ll see their feedback reflected in a more intentional, relevant and impactful experience for participating contractors.”
Marilyn Clark, UK economic engagement manager, said the program’s community partners set it apart.
“I am very excited about the enhanced programming for 2027,” Clark said. “The CBA program is unique because of the community partners that help shape and support the small business owners it serves. We are excited to welcome Hala Nassereddine, UK associate professor of civil engineering, to our steering committee. By connecting academic expertise with real-world industry experience, we can create meaningful opportunities for students, partners and small business owners to learn from one another.”
About the Construction Business Accelerator
The Construction Business Accelerator is a partnership between the University of Kentucky, Turner Construction Company and community stakeholders committed to strengthening Kentucky's construction industry. The program ecosystem provides education, mentorship, networking and hands-on learning opportunities designed to help small and emerging construction contracting businesses build capacity, improve competitiveness and pursue growth opportunities.