What does that mean? It means small, local-owned businesses outnumber national chains. By a lot. Covington is a welcoming city that offers a diverse and thriving community, and this cool urban vibe attracts the one-of-a-kind small retailers, restaurants and drinking spots that add personality and character of The Cov. We encourage and award authenticity. Each year, we recognize businesses via our Authenti-CITY awards program, and trust us that it’s a fun experience.
“Covington is such a close-knit, supportive community with great business networking opportunities, as well as a large population – and that includes a growing culturally-diverse population -- to support local businesses,” said Chapman. “Covington afforded my family the opportunity to fulfill our economic and social objectives in a niche market. This is a great location to do business and build relationships and connections.”
- Carolyn Chapman, Owner, Anchor Grill
Food & Wine ranked Covington, KY, No. 4 on its list of “Top Small U.S. Cities for Food and Drink” in the 2025 Global Tastemakers Awards. Writer Pramik notes that each city on the list “reflects a distinct identity—shaped by history, sparked by creativity, and packed with way more flavor than their size lets on.”
11 Small Cities With Big Flavor to Visit Now
A city where diversity and inclusion is embedded in its core values.
Designed to assist small and large businesses and developers.
12,000 degrees and certificates awarded from Cincinnati metro in related majors.
Intriguing public art, lively events, locally owned restaurants and boutiques, notable bourbon bars all woven together in an historic river city.
Entrepreneurs will find support through Innovation Alley, home to:
And many more!
And many more!
Business Attraction
susan.smith@covingtonky.gov
859-292-2321
Business Retention and Expansion
pduffy@covingtonky.gov
859-292-2141
Join us and our updates as new stories, development, and growth surround our beautiful city of Covington
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Photos provided by Sam Greenhill unless otherwise noted.