Economic Development Partnership of Alabama

#BREAKING: The annual export tally ranks as the second best for Alabama companies selling their products around the world.

🚀 Applications for HBCU Innovation Internship Program are now OPEN! 🚀 This program is one of the exciting efforts happening within the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama! Do you or someone you know in your network have a passion for innovation? This 12-week, project-based internship beginning in September 2025 offers hands-on experience, professional development, and exposure to career pathways in innovation through placements at startups, accelerators, and incubators across Alabama. Apply today! 🔹 Apply here: https://lnkd.in/eDp7q3qa 📅 Important Dates: Priority Deadline: March 7 Final Deadline: March 20

🔬 Trailblazers in Innovation: Honoring Tuskegee University & Lonnie Johnson As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the historic contributions of Tuskegee University, a global leader in entrepreneurship, innovation, and STEM education. From training generations of engineers and business leaders to fostering new startups, Tuskegee continues to empower the next wave of Black entrepreneurs in Alabama. One of Tuskegee’s most renowned innovators, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, revolutionized play and engineering with his invention of the Super Soaker—one of the world’s best-selling toys. But his impact extends far beyond toys—he is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for innovation in Alabama. We were extremely thankful to hear more about his story at Innovate Alabama's last State of Innovation Day. 🚀 Johnson Energy Storage, Inc., founded by Dr. Johnson, is pioneering cutting-edge energy storage technology. Through a $1 million investment from Innovate Alabama, JES is developing all-solid-state batteries, creating safer, more affordable alternatives to traditional lithium batteries. This investment supports innovation and job creation in Tuskegee, further strengthening Alabama’s tech and energy sectors. At EDPA, we are proud of the innovative work happening across our state to support entrepreneurs and bring new technology to market. 📍 Learn more about Dr. Johnson’s impact and Innovate Alabama’s investment here: https://lnkd.in/egH4CZkz #BlackHistoryMonth #TuskegeeUniversity #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #LonnieJohnson #EconomicDevelopment #InnovateAlabama

#BREAKING: A second round of SEEDS grants will accelerate the development of 29 sites across the state.

At EDPA, we believe in the power of opportunity and innovation to drive economic growth in Alabama. That’s why we’re proud to support the HBCU Innovation Internship, an initiative that has provided 21 talented students from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, Miles College, Shelton State Community College, Stillman College, Talladega College and Tuskegee University with real-world experiences in the startup ecosystem. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been at the forefront of producing exceptional talent, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and transformative leaders. By investing in these students, we are investing in the future of Alabama’s workforce, innovation economy, and business landscape. Join us in celebrating the next generation of Black leaders and supporting initiatives that create sustainable economic growth for all. Special thanks to our HBCU Innovation Internship employer partners: Analytical AI, gener8tor, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Immediate, Prosper HealthTech Accelerator ⚡️powered by gener8tor, Techstars Alabama EnergyTech, Innovation Depot #BlackHistoryMonth #EDPA #TalentDevelopment #HBCUs #Innovation #EconomicGrowth

Fuel Alabama has been a game-changer in connecting students with Alabama’s incredible opportunities, and Anchor Alabama is the next step in ensuring that momentum continues year-round. Together, we’re making Alabama the place where top talent chooses to stay, grow, and thrive. 💡🙌

#BREAKING: The Alabama Development Fund would provide a source of sustainable funding for economic development without increasing taxes or cutting existing programs.

The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama has acquired Birmingham Bound - an initiative that has attracted more than 20 tech companies to the Birmingham area since its founding in 2018.

🌐Big News: EDPA Acquires Birmingham Bound! We’re thrilled to announce that EDPA has acquired Birmingham Bound to expand its proven success statewide! This strategic move strengthens our commitment to business attraction, retention, and growth across Alabama, ensuring companies looking to scale have the resources, connections, and support they need to thrive. With this exciting expansion, we’re also hiring! If you're passionate about driving economic development and making an impact in Alabama, now is the time to join our team. 🔹 Read more: https://lnkd.in/etDgJEHv 🔹 EDPA is actively hiring a Director of Technology Company Business Attraction: https://lnkd.in/eVPu8xbR #EDPA #EconomicDevelopment #BirminghamBound #BusinessGrowth #Hiring #JoinOurTeam

Lauren Hyde, Alabama Business Intelligence Center, and Rachel Schaff, Research Manager, McKinsey and Company, will wrap up the 2025 Winter Conference with a Strategic Plan Update. We look forward to hearing their insights on future initiatives and the path ahead for economic development! #2025WinterConference #EDAA #SpeakerSpotlight #EconomicDevelopment