December 17, 2024 · Entrepreneurs, Innovation, News, Stories
Innovate Alabama’s State of Innovation Day 2024: Celebrating Progress and Paving the Way for Alabama’s Future
The future of innovation in Alabama came into sharp focus on December 10, 2024, as Innovate Alabama hosted its annual State of Innovation Day at Regions Field in Birmingham, sponsored by Alabama Power, Protective and Blue Cross Blue Shield. From an inspiring fireside chat to dynamic panel discussions, the event was a whirlwind of insight, energy and groundbreaking conversations that highlighted Alabama’s incredible strides toward becoming a tech and innovation powerhouse.
Opening Remarks: A Vision for Alabama’s Bright Future
Kicking off the day, Bill Poole, chair of Innovate Alabama’s Board of Directors, took the stage to reflect on the remarkable progress Alabama has made in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. “Innovate Alabama is fueling the state’s economy presently and in the future by investing in and supporting the companies and individuals involved in leading us all,” Poole said, setting the tone for an afternoon filled with big ideas and bold steps forward. “As Alabama’s Finance Director, Innovate Alabama’s work gives me confidence about our future economy, but perhaps more importantly, as someone who is proud to call Alabama home, I am encouraged to see so many people choosing to set their own roots down here. I know our state will be stronger for many years because of it.”
Innovate Alabama CEO, Cynthia Crutchfield followed, celebrating the organization’s accomplishments in 2024 and casting a vision for the year ahead. “2024 was a landmark year for Innovate Alabama, much like our first year. We started the year saying ‘more in ’24,’ and while we don’t yet know what the new year will hold, it has to be more, so get ready,” Crutchfield shared, hinting at the exciting initiatives planned for 2025. “Innovate Alabama is excited to celebrate our ecosystem members tonight. It is all about the work and time they have put in to make Innovate Alabama a success, and more importantly, move our state forward in innovation, technology and entrepreneurship.”
Fireside Chat: Innovation and the Alabama Advantage with Dr. Lonnie Johnson
Two of the most anticipated segments of the day included a spotlight on Jesse Draper, founding partner of Halogen Ventures, and a fireside chat featuring Alabama native Dr. Lonnie Johnson, founder of Johnson Energy Storage and inventor of the Super Soaker. Jesse announced Innovate Alabama’s InvestAL investment into Halogen, ultimately leading to Halogen Ventures’ $10 million investment in Alabama founders.
“This would not be possible without Innovate Alabama,” said Draper. “We are excited to work and partner with you. Alabama has world-class universities and more innovation accelerator programs than I can count. The state is full of incredible opportunities, and I am looking forward to catalyzing change.”
Dr. Johnson’s conversation ranged from discussion of his groundbreaking work in energy storage to the critical role that mentors can serve in a young inventor’s life.
“I think of inventing as planting seeds, which will grow and branch into job creation and, ultimately, improvements to quality of life. When innovators are excited and follow through; that makes all the difference,” said Dr. Johnson.
Talent Development Takes Center Stage
Innovate Alabama’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators was clear in the Helping Innovators Grow Roots Panel, moderated by Senator Bobby Singleton, Innovate Alabama board member. Featuring six standout students from Innovate Alabama’s Talent Development programs, the panel highlighted the incredible potential of Alabama’s youth and the programs that are helping them build the skills they need to succeed in the tech and entrepreneurship fields.
“Alabama is a rapidly growing state, especially in the tech field, with more opportunities emerging. The cost of living is very affordable and there are plenty of places to go hiking, restaurants and places to hang out with friends… I definitely see myself setting down roots in Alabama,” said Irene Kihara, an Alabama Data Scholar and junior majoring in Computer Science at Jefferson State Community College.
Student panelists included Raegan Harris (University of Alabama), Irene Kihara (Jefferson State Community College), Calvin Kim (high school senior), Kashmere Miller (Tuskegee University), Hunter Stepanovich (University of Alabama) and Jesse Yankey (Alabama A&M).
Lifestyle, Recreation and Talent: The Winning Formula for Alabama
An overarching takeaway was clear: Alabama isn’t just about business and tech; it’s a place where folks can build a life they love, too. The Lifestyle and Recreation Panel dove into how Alabama’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities are key to attracting and retaining top talent. Dr. Tim Lindblom, Dean, College of Arts, Humanities and Science, Jacksonville State University; Kellie Clark, Managing Director, gener8tor; Christopher Joe, Founder, The Joe Farm: Connecting with Birds and Nature Tours, LLC.; and Chad Scroggins, County Manager, Shelby County, shared their vision of a vibrant Alabama where outdoor adventures and career opportunities go hand in hand.
“This state is beautiful. If you have not seen and hiked in Sipsey or seen the sunset at Mount Cheaha, you really should because it is a beautiful state,” said Kellie Clark.
Whether it’s hiking on one of the state’s many trails or enjoying a round of golf on an award-winning course, Alabama’s recreational assets are quickly becoming one of the state’s biggest draws for talent.
Innovator of the Year Award and Founder Fest Showcase: Innovation on Display
The day’s excitement culminated in the announcement of Innovate Alabama’s Innovator of the Year award, which was presented to Dr. Todd Greer, executive director of Innovation Portal.
“This recognition is such a great honor,” said Greer. “Over the past three years, through the development of Innovate Alabama, I have witnessed so much growth in our state as we impact countless lives, gain national recognition and make our state better for future generations. I am delighted to serve alongside so many incredible partners and founders from across this great state.”
The Founder Fest Showcase began with awards for six Alabama-based entrepreneurs who competed in the Founder Fest Pitch Blitz earlier in the day and were honored for their innovative products, ideas and pitches. The evening also included an opportunity for Alabama’s most promising startups to present their ideas and innovations to investors, partners and the broader community. The energy in the room was electric as entrepreneurs networked, exchanged ideas and formed connections that will likely define Alabama’s future business landscape.
Looking Ahead: Innovate Alabama’s Vision for 2025
As Innovate Alabama gears up for the next chapter, the organization is focused on expanding programs like the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), further developing the Talent Development Pillar through programs like the Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities program in partnership with Decatur Morgan CEO and continuing to invest in outdoor recreation to recruit and retain strong talent. With an eye on 2025 and beyond, the goals are clear: provide more resources for entrepreneurs, continue to attract top talent and make Alabama the go-to destination for innovation.
Innovate Alabama Board of Directors Chair Bill Poole closed the day with a moment of reflection, saying, “This is a night of celebration and gratitude. It is a night of excitement for the future of our state, the future of our founders and the future of this effort.”
Wrapping Up: A Day to Remember
State of Innovation Day 2024 was a powerful reminder of just how far Alabama has come and how much potential lies ahead. The energy, the conversations and the connections made during the event have set the stage for an even brighter future for Alabama’s tech and innovation community.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Innovate Alabama in 2025 — the best is yet to come.
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