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EDPA PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Innovation & Entrepreneurship

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Driving Innovation. Empowering Entrepreneurs.

EDPA fosters a thriving ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning Alabama as a hub for transformative industries.

Alabama Launchpad

Alabama is full of amazing talent with big ideas. Alabama Launchpad is dedicated to raising them up to greater heights that propel job growth and prosperity in their wake. Our competitions give Alabama’s budding entrepreneurs the tools they need to turn their ideas into real-world businesses, helping propel our state to a bigger, brighter, and better tomorrow. Rigorous training and invaluable feedback from our expert Launch Advisors help prepare our contestants for the challenges of business, and our financial seed funding gives rising stars the opportunity they need to reach their full potential.
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FuelAL HBCU Innovation Internship

The HBCU Innovation Internship Program is a transformative initiative dedicated to diversifying Alabama’s tech talent pipeline. This program provides students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with invaluable opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the state’s thriving startup ecosystem. By offering paid internships, mentorship, and immersive experiences, the program equips students with the skills and connections needed to succeed in high-demand, innovation-driven careers.

What We Offer

  • Paid Internship Opportunities: Real-world experience at some of Alabama’s most innovative startups and companies.
  • Mentorship: Personalized guidance from industry professionals and business leaders.
  • Immersion in the Startup Ecosystem: Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and entrepreneurial environments.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with Alabama’s top employers, innovators, and economic development leaders.

Our Goals

  • Bridge the gap between underrepresented talent and high-growth industries.
  • Strengthen Alabama’s tech ecosystem by fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
  • Encourage HBCU students to explore careers and opportunities within Alabama, retaining top talent in the state.

Partners

The program is supported by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United Inc. and Innovate Alabama. Together, these partners help ensure students gain valuable access to Alabama’s growing innovation ecosystem. It collaborates with leading HBCUs, including Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, Bishop State Community College, Lawson State Community College, Miles College, Stillman College, Talladega College and Tuskegee University. 

Apply for Spring 2026 Cohort

Attracting and retaining tech talent

Birmingham Bound Goes Statewide

The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) is proud to announce the acquisition of Birmingham Bound, a pioneering initiative that has successfully attracted over 20 technology companies to the Birmingham area since its founding in 2018. Originally launched by Shipt to support Birmingham’s growing innovation ecosystem, Birmingham Bound will now serve as a cornerstone for a statewide lead generation strategy for tech companies. 
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