Innovate Alabama recently kicked off a new push to link communities and support economic development through innovation and to celebrate 13 west Alabama organizations, beginning its statewide roadshow in Marion.
The event, hosted by Main Street Marion in partnership with the Marion Military Institute, was the first stop in a six-region tour called “Connecting Alabama: Igniting the Innovate Alabama Network.”
The roadshow is designed to highlight local efforts – from small towns to larger cities – that are driving new ideas and economic opportunities across the state.
“This Roadshow is about more than a celebration; it’s about connection,” said Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, who serves on the Innovate Alabama board.
“Programs like the Innovate Alabama Network empower communities to work together, access new resources and build a stronger economic foundation for our region.”
These west Alabama organizations were recognized for their leadership and impact:
- CHOICE Uniontown, Perry County
- City of Marion, Marion County
- City of Selma, Dallas County
- City of Thomasville, Clarke County
- City of Uniontown, Perry County
- City of York, Sumter County
- Industrial Development Foundation of Tuscaloosa County, Tuscaloosa County
- Main Street Marion, Perry County
- Town of White Hall, Lowndes County
- Tuscaloosa County, Tuscaloosa County
- Tuscaloosa County Parks and Recreation Foundation, Tuscaloosa County
- Tuscaloosa Sports & Tourism Foundation, Tuscaloosa County
- University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa County
The network includes 168 members across 38 counties.
“The Innovate Alabama Network Roadshow is designed to bring our partners together in their own regions – to listen, celebrate and build on what’s working,” Innovate Alabama Network Program Director Karri Green said. “Each stop of this tour will help us identify opportunities to strengthen local economies through innovation and ensure that communities across the state have the tools and connections they need to prosper.”
The Marion event featured remarks from Innovate Alabama leadership, local officials and community groups, along with tours of Main Street Marion’s Harris Technology Center – a hub for education and workforce development in the Black Belt region, supported through the network’s designation program.
Upcoming stops on the tour will include central east Alabama, south Alabama, the River Region, north Alabama and central Alabama.