Alabama Launchpad Announces New Structure for 2025 to Drive Industry-Specific Innovation and Growth

January 9, 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (January 9, 2025) — Alabama Launchpad, the state’s longest-running startup competition, is proud to announce a bold new direction for its 2025 program, aimed at providing more targeted mentorship, more strategic and focused competition, and broader opportunities for Alabama’s early-stage startups. The new structure includes category-specific competition tracks, increased funding opportunities, and enhanced resources for all participating companies. Starting in 2025, Alabama Launchpad finalists will compete in one of three distinct tracks: life sciences, technology, or consumer goods. These tracks are designed to ensure startups receive tailored mentorship and support that addresses the unique challenges of their industries. Finalists will also benefit from a streamlined schedule featuring two competition cycles per year, larger prize pools, and dedicated funding for each track. In addition to changes in the competition format, Alabama Launchpad will expand its emphasis on mentorship for all startups chosen to compete, which will now be recognized as “Alabama Launchpad members.” All program members will receive $2,500 in funding to experiment with business strategies during the program, access to regional meetings and peer-to-peer connections, and personalized guidance from experts in areas such as sales, accounting, marketing, legal compliance, and product development. “This evolution reflects Alabama Launchpad’s ongoing commitment to serving as a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth in Alabama,” said Miller Girvin, president of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA). “By focusing on industry-specific mentorship and funding, we’re creating an ecosystem where startups across diverse sectors can thrive.” The introduction of sector-specific investment committees will further enhance the program’s focus, allowing experts from each field to guide funding decisions. Winners from each track will be presented at a statewide showcase held once a year, coinciding with other accelerator events to amplify visibility for Alabama startups and attract additional capital and resources to the region. Since its founding in 2006, Alabama Launchpad has awarded over $6.4 million to more than 120 startups. Collectively, these companies have created more than 1,400 jobs, secured over $170 million in follow-on funding, and achieved a combined valuation exceeding $1 billion. “As we look ahead to 2025, Alabama Launchpad remains committed to nurturing the next generation of innovators who will shape Alabama’s economy,” Girvin said. “These updates will allow us to expand our impact and better support the diverse and promising startups that call Alabama home.” Operated by the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, Alabama Launchpad is the state’s premier startup competition, providing early-stage companies with funding, mentorship, and resources to build strong, sustainable businesses. For more information about Alabama Launchpad and its 2025 updates, visit www.alabamalaunchpad.com. Media Contact: Audrey Hodges Director of Communications and Talent Economic Development Partnership of Alabama ahodges@edpa.org (812) 760-1343

More About Alabama Launchpad

Established in 2006, Alabama Launchpad is Alabama’s most active, early-stage seed fund investor, driving innovation and job growth through startup competitions and ongoing mentoring for Alabama entrepreneurs. Alabama Launchpad is made possible by the generous support from Innovate Alabama, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, the Alabama Department of Commerce, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Caring Foundation, Truist Bank, The University of Alabama, Auburn University, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, the Daniel Corporation Foundation. It is the state’s longest running business plan and pitch competition. Over the past 17 years, Alabama Launchpad has invested over $6 million into 121 Alabama startups. The winning startup companies have generated over 1,400 jobs for the state and have a combined post-money valuation of over $1 billion.

More About Our Partner, Innovate Alabama

Innovate Alabama is Alabama’s first statewide public-private partnership focused on entrepreneurship, technology and innovation with a mission to help innovators grow roots here in Alabama. Innovate Alabama was established to implement the initiatives and recommendations set forth in the Alabama Innovation Commission’s report, including smart policy solutions that will create a more resilient, inclusive and robust economy to remain competitive in a 21st-century world. With founding CEO Cynthia Crutchfield leading the charge, Innovate Alabama is also made up of a board of 11 innovation leaders appointed by Gov. Ivey, collaborating across sectors to advance industries, drive technology and facilitate an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. Learn more about Innovate Alabama at www.innovatealabama.org.

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