Macon County EDA rescues historic newspaper to preserve local voice, community momentum
TUSKEGEE, Alabama — In a show of community commitment, the Macon County Economic Development Authority (MCEDA) has stepped in to acquire “The Tuskegee News,” the city’s 160-year-old weekly newspaper, preventing the area from becoming another victim of America’s growing number of “news deserts.” With longtime owner Gayle Davis ready to retire after 42 years at the helm…
Governor Ivey signs ‘Powering Growth’ plan to energize future economic gains
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday signed into law comprehensive legislation designed to solidify accelerate economic development and address potential critical energy infrastructure supply chain vulnerabilities across Alabama. The “Powering Growth” plan includes the establishment of the Alabama Energy Infrastructure Bank, a strategic plan to mitigate long lead times for crucial energy equipment…
SEEDS program helps position Lawrence County for job creation, growth
A $2.7 million grant from Alabama’s Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) program will allow the Lawrence County Industrial Development Board (LCIDB) and local officials to expand an industrial site in the North Alabama county. The SEEDS program is a statewide initiative designed to assist local governmental entities with funds for the development of…
Rural Alabama on the rise: Billions in investment driving job creation
Rural Alabama is experiencing a surge in economic growth, with more than $7 billion in new investment since 2020 fueling nearly 9,000 job commitments across the state’s targeted rural counties. The momentum continued throughout 2024, as $1.2 billion in fresh investment flowed into key industries, generating 1,700 new job opportunities and strengthening rural communities across the state, according to a new report from the Alabama…
SEEDS grant to boost economic growth efforts in rural Fayette
FAYETTE, Alabama — Alabama’s groundbreaking SEEDS program is providing a $733,700 grant to enable officials in Fayette to purchase property for a prime industrial site that will accelerate economic growth in the rural region. The Industrial Development Board of the City of Fayette (Fayette IDB) plans to purchase land to establish the North Fayette Industrial…
Alabama’s economic growth continues with $7 billion in new investment from 2024 projects
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Governor Kay Ivey today announced the release of the “2024 New & Expanding Industry Announcements Report,” highlighting another banner year for Alabama’s economy. The report reveals that economic development efforts last year secured $7 billion in new capital investment across 224 projects, generating more than 8,500 career opportunities for Alabamians. Governor Ivey…
Alabama offers free mental health and substance abuse training for employers
MONTGOMERY, Alabama — The Alabama Department of Commerce advises that businesses across the state can now take advantage of free training to help supervisors identify and respond to mental health and substance abuse issues in the workforce. The 8-hour training session is provided by the University of Alabama’s VitAL partnership, which uses education and training…
Alabama’s $36 billion forestry industry powers rural growth and innovation
Alabama’s forestry industry is a vital economic engine, particularly for the state’s rural areas. By generating billions in economic activity, creating thousands of jobs and promoting sustainable practices, the industry not only supports local economies but also positions Alabama as a leader in forestry and natural resource management on a national and global scale. The…
8 Alabama-made holiday gifts that celebrate local craftsmanship
You already know that all kinds of great products are made in workshops, factories, studios and kitchens across Alabama. Even better, many of them make perfect gifts for the special ones on your holiday shopping list. Our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide highlights the creativity of Alabama companies, artisans, entrepreneurs and others producing one-of-a-kind items ideal…
SEEDS grant elevates growth potential of Atmore Industrial Park
ATMORE, Alabama — Atmore officials say a $703,000 grant from Alabama’s new Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) program will advance industrial development in the rural Escambia County city. Atmore will use the SEEDS grant to purchase land, primarily from Swift Lumber Co., that was either inside or adjacent to Atmore Industrial Park. With…
