SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Innovate Alabama has unveiled the second round of designees for the Innovate Alabama Network, a comprehensive platform aimed at sparking innovation across communities, nonprofits, and higher education institutions throughout the state.
This round includes 62 new designees, including the Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement (SAFE), bringing the total to 113 network members. Innovate Alabama is awarding nearly $8 million in designation awards and project grants to support these entities.
“Through the Innovate Alabama Network, we’re focused on developing a statewide network for innovation programming and catalyzing entrepreneurship in all of our communities, large and small,” said Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama.
Margaret Morton, CEO of SAFE and President of the East Alabama Rural Innovation and Training Hub (EARTH), added by saying, “Innovate Alabama designation means that SAFE now has access in our region for small business grants. Innovate Alabama provides the much-needed support to secure federal dollars to invest in our small businesses. By incentivizing rural and underrepresented small businesses and accelerators across East Alabama, our future economic security is bright. Thank you, Innovate Alabama!”
Since its inception in 1998, SAFE has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for families and communities in Talladega County and beyond. Leveraging millions of dollars in funding over the past 25 years, SAFE has established itself as a community-based family resource center.
Jason Isbell, EARTH Foundation Board Member and Head of State Government Affairs and Economic Development at Regions Bank, noted the significance of the designation, saying, “This designation today will mean an even brighter tomorrow. As our state continues to grow and thrive, we must ensure rural communities are not left out. Access to valuable career and training opportunities means more employment opportunities here at home.”
Dr. Melva Tate, EARTH Foundation Board Member and President/CEO of Tate and Associates Strategic Consulting, added, “We are profoundly honored that SAFE has been awarded this project grant from Innovate Alabama. This distinguished support will significantly empower us to further our mission of fostering innovation and catalyzing economic growth within the East Alabama region.”
Innovate Alabama is Alabama’s first statewide public-private partnership focused on entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation.
With a mission to help innovators grow roots in Alabama, Innovate Alabama collaborates across sectors to advance industries and drive technology.
Learn more at www.innovatealabama.org.