Photo Credit: Henry Busby
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (October 15, 2025) — The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), in collaboration with the Alabama Department of Commerce and Innovate Alabama, has unveiled a statewide strategy designed to recruit, retain, and scale high-growth technology companies across the state.
Centered on the principle “Alabama Puts Founders First,” the initiative unites new and expanded programs that help startups thrive through funding, mentorship, and collaboration with Alabama corporations. The strategy focuses on three core pillars:
- Corporate Pilots: Funding pilot projects between Alabama corporations and startups to accelerate adoption of emerging technologies.
- Accelerated Company Retention: Providing concierge-style support and post-accelerator resources to help founders stay and scale in Alabama.
- Tech Business Attraction: Using data from the Alabama Business Intelligence Center (AL Intel) to target growth-stage companies in key sectors including defense, biotech, mobility, forestry, and advanced manufacturing.
“This strategy makes it clear that our state is ready to help startups thrive with tailored resources, accessible capital and a community that welcomes big ideas,” said Jackson Pruett, EDPA’s Director of Technology Company Business Attraction.
EDPA’s effort builds on the success of Birmingham Bound, acquired by the organization in 2024, expanding its mission statewide. Working alongside partners at Innovate Alabama and the Department of Commerce, EDPA aims to strengthen Alabama’s position as a leading hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Alabama is not just competing – we’re innovating the way we attract and support startups,” said Angela Smith, Senior Project Manager, Alabama Department of Commerce. “Our strength lies in partnership, and this effort reflects our commitment to building a dynamic tech ecosystem.”
The strategy leverages Alabama’s existing strengths in defense and manufacturing. The state ranks among the nation’s top defense hubs, home to U.S. Space Command and major primes such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.
Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama, added, “Innovation doesn’t just happen in one city or one sector. Through this collaboration, we’re strengthening the network that allows small businesses to start, stay, and scale across Alabama.”
More information on the expansion of Birmingham Bound can be found here.
For more information about EDPA’s founder-focused initiatives or to get involved, contact Jackson Pruett at jpruett@edpa.org.
About EDPA
The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) is a private, nonprofit organization committed to advancing economic growth through innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent retention. Its initiatives — including Alabama Launchpad, Alabama Talent Solutions, FuelAL, and Investor Connector — foster a vibrant and diverse economic landscape across the state. Learn more at edpa.org.
