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.


 

In this issue:











In Mobile, 'transformative' effort could move airport from suburbs to downtown
By  John Sharp
In recent years, meetings of the Mobile Airport Authority have barely made a blip on the media's radar screen.  Reporters rarely saw much of interest on the agenda. Nor did the flying public, for that matter.

But then came February's surprise from  ViaAir, and everything changed.

The upstart Florida airline  announced plans to offer a direct link between Mobile and Orlando, the Port City's first such new connection in over a decade. More intriguingly, it wants to fly from the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley, just minutes from downtown, rather than from Mobile Regional miles away to the west.


more...

[ al.com]



Alabama Launchpad Startup Competition Finale heads to Prattville on Thursday

With up to $150,000 on the line and expert judges deciding the winners, this competition is high stakes for six early-stage companies.

Beyond the competing startup teams, the event features a meet and greet and also a panel discussion. The night concludes at 7:30 p.m., with an after party. Join us at the Finale, powered by imerge and presented by the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce!

Click here for details and to purchase tickets.









Rise of the Rest Pitch Competition Deadline Approaching

Startup founders and entrepreneurs planning on joining the pitch competition at the Rise of the Rest tour stop in Birmingham on May 9 should get those applications in order. The deadline to submit an application for this year's tour is March 20.

There is an opportunity for a startup to win $100,000. Companies within 100 miles of Birmingham can  apply online as long as they meet the criteria. Click here for more information. 

Check out the video of Shipt Founder Bill Smith talking about the importance of the Rise of the Rest tour in Birmingham.


Shipt Founder Bill Smith

























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