Leaders from Alabama’s innovation, business, and research sectors gathered on Tuesday at Regions Field for Innovate Alabama’s State of Innovation Day 2025, highlighting how five years of coordinated statewide strategy are translating into job creation, private investment, and economic growth across the state.
Innovate Alabama Board Chair Bill Poole opened the event by outlining how investment in innovation directly supports Alabama jobs, communities, and long-term economic strength.
His remarks framed discussions throughout the day, as speakers pointed to priorities established by the Alabama Innovation Commission that are now producing measurable outcomes statewide.
Innovate Alabama CEO Cynthia Crutchfield highlighted the organization’s shift toward scaling programs designed to help companies launch, grow, and remain in Alabama communities, reinforcing efforts to keep Alabama-grown businesses and jobs in the state.
Founders from Zeus Research & Technology, Analytical AI, and Titomic participated in the first panel, titled “From Lab to Launch,” which examined why an increasing number of technology companies are choosing Alabama as a base for commercialization.
Panelists cited proximity to Redstone Arsenal, access to supplemental grants, and the state’s mix of established and emerging expertise. Representatives from Montgomery TechLab also discussed their role in helping companies navigate federal pathways tied to defense-related opportunities.
Representatives from Chonex, SetaTech, and Psigryph took part in the second panel, “Scaling for Staying Power,” which aligned with the Alabama Department of Commerce’s CatALyst plan focused on strengthening agriculture and food-related industries.
Panelists discussed how access to capital, accelerator networks, and research partnerships are supporting small businesses and family-supporting jobs across both rural and urban regions.
Auburn alumnus and business builder Cam Doody delivered the keynote address, highlighting Alabama’s growing workforce, improving access to capital, and business-friendly communities as key factors creating a competitive environment for companies to succeed.
The event also recognized innovation leadership across the state, naming Dr. Ben Fulmer, CEO of Fulmer Instruments, as Innovator of the Year and Dean Mitchell, director of HudsonAlpha Wiregrass, as the inaugural Innovation Community Builder Award recipient.
State of Innovation Day underscored continued momentum in Alabama’s innovation economy, with speakers pointing to the state’s pro-business approach as a driver of growth and opportunity for communities statewide.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
