November 2023

Monthly Scoop!

The Remote Shoals program continues to see tremendous success and recognition! Since its launch in June 2019, we have successfully recruited 122 remote workers to relocate to our community. These folks bring with them a total annual salary of $11.8 million. Including their trailing family members, 242 new residents have been added to The Shoals. Over $15 million in homes have been purchased, and around $575,000 is being spent on annual rent rates.

In addition to the direct economic impact, many participants contribute in ways that cannot be easily quantified. Participants volunteer with local organizations and non-profits and start their own businesses. Some individuals choose to transition from remote work to a local role. These actions benefit the community and contribute to a positive social impact.

The media recognition received by the program has illuminated Remote Shoals and The Shoals community, inspiring many to consider moving to or visiting The Shoals. Check out two of the newest features below: 

Given the program's continued success, we are delighted to announce that the total amount of incentives committed since the beginning of the program has been increased to $1,150,000! We are eager to continue recruiting folks to our incredible community. We would like to express gratitude to our board members for their support and to our community for welcoming Remote Shoals participants. Without each of you, we wouldn't have achieved this success!

On November 9th, North American Lighting (NAL) was recognized at the Japan-America Society of Alabama (JASA) annual dinner. This event brought together leaders from government, economic development, education, and culture in support of the Alabama-Japan relationship.

NAL was honored for its remarkable industry expansion by creating 100 new job opportunities and investing $15 million in capital. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of NAL's team towards the growth and success of the organization. We are proud to have them as a part of The Shoals!

Over the past month, Rob Jones (Shoals EDA Project Manager) and Mike Lockhart (Mayor of Muscle Shoals) have visited local industries to learn more about their operations and products. Each visit also allowed industry leaders to share what challenges or opportunities they are experiencing.

Pictured left to right are Sam Mashburn (Director of Business Advocacy, Shoals Chamber of Commerce), Mike Lockhart (Mayor of Muscle Shoals), Buddy Stemple (CEO, Constellium), and Rob Jones (Project Manager, Shoals EDA)

On November 2nd, during The Shoals Chamber's Business Summit, finalists for Shoals Idea Audition made their pitches. Each idea presented was creative and innovative and addressed a specific need within our society.

We wanted to extend congratulations to the following winners:

1st Place: Check My Spot

2nd Place: Soupies

3rd Place: Work Sight

Wild Card: Remembrara

The Shoals Idea Audition allows entrepreneurs to present their business ideas to a panel of business and community leaders. The winners receive up to $7,500! Congrats again, and we can't wait to see how each idea grows!

On November 7th, our staff attended the North Alabama Economic Development Symposium. This event was hosted by the North Alabama Industrial Development Association (NAIDA) and focused on The EVolving Landscape. We heard from different organizations and companies involved in the EV industry.