Today, Louisville took center stage at the Venture Connectors Luncheon, hosted by Amplify and led by the remarkable Larry Berger. Among the esteemed attendees were entrepreneur and community leader Di Tran and Secretary Jeff Noel, marking a perfect way to begin 2025. This meeting highlighted the shared vision of elevating Louisville and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and the boundless opportunities that lie ahead.
The theme of the event, “Louisville is Beautiful, and Kentucky is Full of Opportunity,” resonated deeply with every participant. It set the tone for a year focused on unity and growth. As Di Tran passionately stated, “We might think differently, but if we act in ways that divide us or detract from our shared growth, we’re not serving our community or ourselves. Together, we win.”
A Vision for Kentucky
Secretary Jeff Noel’s leadership was front and center, inspiring the audience with his insights on Kentucky’s vast potential. His work with programs like the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI) and SBIR/STTR Matching Funds showcased how innovation, economic development, and community empowerment can drive the state forward. These grants and initiatives represent a significant opportunity to lift Louisville and Kentucky to new heights.
Di Tran, a refugee turned entrepreneur and leader, shared his personal journey and commitment to fostering growth in Louisville’s immigrant and refugee communities. For Tran, Louisville is not just a city but a home built on love, resilience, and boundless opportunity. “The USA is the greatest country on earth, and Louisville, KY, is a beautiful home. We can all lift our community in our own way, and together we will win.”
Uniting for a Common Purpose
The event also celebrated the visionary leadership of Governor Andy Beshear and Mayor Craig Greenberg, who have consistently championed unity and economic development in Kentucky. The message was clear: Kentucky and Louisville are stronger when we come together, leveraging diverse perspectives and collaborating to secure grants and federal support for local initiatives.
For Di Tran, this moment was not just about financial growth—it was about fostering a sense of shared purpose. His work in building businesses and providing opportunities for others underscores the importance of adding value to every life touched.
Starting 2025 Strong
The luncheon, held at the Kentucky Science Center, a hub of innovation and inspiration, was the perfect venue to set the tone for the year. The gathering of leaders, entrepreneurs, and community builders reaffirmed a collective commitment to making Louisville and Kentucky stronger, more innovative, and more unified than ever before.
The synergy between Secretary Jeff Noel, Di Tran, and other leaders in attendance reflects the essence of Kentucky’s mission: to create a thriving future where everyone plays a role in elevating the community. As Di Tran emphasized, “If it’s not about lifting Kentucky and Louisville, we’re doing it wrong.”
Here’s to 2025—a year of love, collaboration, and growth. Together, we will make Louisville and Kentucky shine brighter than ever.