Here is today's summary of economic development news, a free service of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, representing Alabama's private sector investment in economic development. If you enjoy NewsFlash, thank an
EDPA Partner.
Three local startup businesses are getting a chance to move their business forward by winning prize money from the Auburn Regional Alabama Launchpad competition.
The finale event took place at the ALFA Pavilion at Ag Heritage Park in Auburn last night in which two Auburn-based businesses and one Tuskegee-based business took home shares of a $100,000 prize.
"What we hope is they make some type of impact for economic development," LaKami Baker, managing director of the Lowder Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurship, said of the competitors.
BioAlabama highlights strength of bioscience industry to Alabama leadership
April 5
Members of BioAlabama, Alabama's statewide organization that connects the bioscience ecosystem, met with members of the Alabama Senate, House of Representatives, and Governor Kay Ivey's staff recently to discuss the importance of the state's life sciences industry.
During the meetings, representatives from BioAlabama touted the economic, human health and agricultural significance of biosciences across Alabama.
"Alabama is home to a thriving bioscience sector," said Peggy Sammon, chair of BioAlabama. "BioAlabama enjoys a close relationship with the state's leaders as we work together to grow this industry, bringing more quality jobs to Alabama. Our meetings were an opportunity for us to report to the administration and legislature about the significant impact this industry has on all areas of the state."
Bill Smith built his company, Shipt, around an app-based grocery delivery service. Now part of Target, his Shipt will deliver most anything you might want from the big box store's ware.
On December 13, 2017, Target announced plans to acquire the Birmingham-based grocery delivery service Shipt. The all-cash purchase totaled $550 million, a new high-water mark for Alabama startups.
"It was always a dream of ours to work with Target," says Shipt CEO Bill Smith. He had met with a Target representative at a conference the previous year, originally discussing adding Target as a retail partner.