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
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Every entrepreneur, just like every company, has a story to tell.
But today was a day not just for their stories, but Birmingham's. Revolution's Rise of the Rest bus tour came to the Magic City today, bringing a national spotlight to Birmingham's startup community.
The bus tour brought Steve Case, the founder of America Online and the chairman and CEO of the Washington D.C.-based investment firm Revolution, to Alabama as part of a five-day, four-state tour. JD Vance, Case's Revolution business partner and the author of "Hillbilly Elegy," is also part of the tour.
A commercial roofing company announced plans Wednesday to move its headquarters from the Atlanta area to Mobile, bringing about 25 jobs and the prospect of more in the future.
Nations Roof CEO Rich Nugent said the decision wasn't driven by an offer of economic incentives; Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said the company hadn't sought any tax breaks or other credits and wasn't being given any. Instead, Nugent said, it was about manpower and other factors.
"The incentive really is what we are finding in this market for what we need to get done, which is primarily the people," Nugent said.
A workforce development initiative is being pursued in Opelika, and local officials are anticipating it to benefit the local school system, industries and the city.
Approving a $30,000 consultation agreement on May 1, the Opelika City Council granted consent to Greg Leikvold, a former manufacturing manager with Michelin who's worked in multiple countries and retired after 33 years, to conduct efforts on behalf of workforce development.
The cost for these services will be split between the city and Opelika City Schools.