Kentucky Manufacturing Extension Partnership
- The Kentucky APEX Accelerator
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 2

The Kentucky Manufacturing Extension Partnership (KY-MEP) is part of the University of Louisville and is part of the MEP National Network, a unique public/private partnership focused on growing the economy through the manufacturing sector.
KY-MEP leads, implements and mentors Kentucky manufacturers in all areas of their businesses. Their team of experienced industry leaders works directly with clients to identify areas of improvement, streamline processes, increase competitiveness and create new revenue streams. In addition, KY-MEP leverages resources and research capabilities at the University of Louisville to connect businesses with the services needed to expand, scale and thrive. With proven operational excellence and a portfolio of solutions, programs and partnerships, KY-MEP helps manufacturers improve productivity, profits and their bottom line.
Through on-site training, coaching, hands-on implementation and continuing support, these experienced industry specialists deliver expertise in market-driven programs that create high-value sustainable business practices and measurable results in four areas:
Leadership, Workforce & Culture
Operations & Efficiency
Growth & Innovation
Automation Technologies

The Leadership, Workforce & Culture platform focuses on empowering people to optimize processes through fostering engaged teams, developing strong talent and supporting effective recruitment and retention. Services in this area include:
Leadership Development Programs
Change Management Consulting
Enhanced Employee Engagement & Retention Strategies
Talent Management Strategies
Empowering Front Line Leaders
The Operations & Efficiency platform streamlines processes, maximizing results by eliminating waste throughout operations. Utilizing proven Lean tools to systematically raise a team’s skill level while simultaneously driving change, KY-MEP offers a range of services to provide tangible change to your business performance and operations. These services include:
Lean Workshops & Implementation
Quality Management Systems
Lean Six Sigma & Problem Solving
Safety Standards, Audits & Teams
Program & Project Management
Industrial Maintenance
The Growth & Innovation platform fuels business growth through helping companies profitably leverage technology to identify, vet and commercialize ideas and products for new revenue streams. Services in this area include:
Growth Management System
Strategy & Business Coaching
Sales Development, Training & Consulting
Research & Market Intelligence
Website, Marketing & Branding
Supplier Sourcing
Finally, the Automation Technologies platform harnesses the power of technology through providing assessments, expertise and integration solutions, helping to optimize operations. Services include:
Additive Manufacturing
Advanced Robotics
Machine Learning/AI
Logistics & Distribution
Best-in-class companies integrate elements from all four platforms into a holistic, customized and unique system. KY-MEP customizes unique approaches and programs, allowing the needs of companies to be realized and experiencing immediate results.
KY-MEP tracks the results of recommended actions and is committed to demonstrable, measurable impacts. Over the past five years, the program’s results speak for themselves, with $93 million in total cost savings, $270.2 million in total new investment, $354.6 million in total sales and $717.8 million in total impact.

For more information about KY-MEP programs and additional resources, visit their website at louisville.edu/kymep. You can also contact their team by email at kymep@louisville.edu or by phone at (502) 852-9621. They would love to hear from you!
