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ProxyLink Wins $75,000 in Technology Track in Alabama Launchpad Cycle 1 2025

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (April 28, 2025) – Alabama Launchpad, a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) in partnership with Innovate Alabama, is proud to announce ProxyLink as the winner of $75,000 in non-dilutive funding in the Technology (Hardware & Software) Track for Cycle 1 2025.

The company was selected from a competitive group of four tech-focused finalists, which also included:

  • Core Prototyping (Huntsville) – A firm focused on creating rapid prototyping solutions for hardware and software development.
  • Move to Happy (Auburn) – A software platform designed to help communities attract and retain top talent through data-driven strategies.
  • Ranalia Biotech Inc. (Huntsville) – AI screening and confirmatory tests for early detection of pathogens in food. By combining high-volume screening with precision diagnostics, Ranalia provides a faster, more affordable solution to safeguard the food industry against contamination risks.

Each of these companies brought innovative solutions to the table—from rapid prototyping and digital identity to AI-powered food safety and community-building technology.

John Walter, founder of ProxyLink, will receive $75,000 in non-dilutive funding, as well as access to follow-on mentorship and exposure to Alabama’s growing network of investors and innovation partners. ProxyLink is developing a secure, seamless authentication system to enhance digital identity verification as AI agents become more prevalent and powerful.

“While we have come a long way, this is only the start of the race,” said Walter. “The AI industry is fast-moving and competitive. We are building a talented team in Birmingham to stay at the front of the curve. We have open roles for software engineers, marketing, and sales. Reach out to john@proxylink.co if interested.”

The finalists pitched their ventures behind closed doors to a panel of seasoned judges: Martha Underwood, founder of Prismm; Mike Ozburn, founding partner of BRIGHTSpot Partners; and Kelsey Nichols, former CTO of Landing and fractional CTO.

“This moment in tech is a tidal wave,” said Nichols. “It’s reshaping what’s possible and who gets to build it. I love seeing founders from all walks of life bringing fresh perspectives to the table — and Alabama is showing up! The South is making its mark, and I am proud to have been a part of it today.”

Cycle 1 2025 marked the first round under Alabama Launchpad’s newly restructured format, which includes three industry-specific tracks, $2,500 upfront funding for each finalist, and a 12-week mentorship program designed to better support Alabama’s most promising startups.

“This year’s structure has enabled us to connect founders with mentors and investors who understand the unique challenges of their industry,” said Estes Hughes, vice president of innovation and talent at EDPA. “It’s exciting to see how much growth happens when we provide targeted support, and ProxyLink is a fantastic example of what’s possible with the right resources in place.”

The Alabama Launchpad Cycle 1 2025 finale was the first to implement the program’s new track-based approach. Finalists were evaluated not only on their market potential and traction, but on their alignment with Alabama’s key growth sectors.

The Alabama Launchpad Cycle 1 Consumer Goods finalists will compete for $50,000 in non-dilutive funding on May 8, and the Life Sciences finalists will compete for $100,000 in non-dilutive funding on May 15.

For more information on Alabama Launchpad and Cycle 2 2025, please visit www.alabamalaunchpad.com.

About Alabama Launchpad Established in 2006, Alabama Launchpad is the state’s most active early-stage seed fund investor, dedicated to driving innovation and job growth through startup competitions and ongoing mentorship for Alabama entrepreneurs. The program has invested more than $6.4 million to over 120 startups, resulting in more than 1,600 jobs created and over $1B in estimated valuation. 

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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