Alabama Launchpad

05/11/2026

Congratulations to Auburn University Samuel Ginn College of Engineering student and founder Joseph Rusk and The BreadBoard Company for winning $75,000 in the Alabama Launchpad Cycle 1 2026 Technology Competition. 🚀

The BreadBoard Company is inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders by making robotics and electronics approachable, engaging and fun for young learners through hands-on kits and guided instruction.

Joseph’s vision, creativity and entrepreneurial drive represent the kind of innovation continuing to grow across Alabama’s startup ecosystem, and we are proud to support founders building meaningful solutions for the future.

Read more about Joseph and The BreadBoard Company here:

https://alabamalaunchpad.com/news/joseph-rusk-and-the-breadboard-company-win-alabama-launchpad-cycle-1-2026-technology-competition/

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (May 11, 2026) – Alabama Launchpad, a program of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA) in partnership with Innovate Alabama, is proud to announce Joseph Rusk and The BreadBoard Company as the winner of the Alabama Launchpad Cycle 1 2026 Technology Track competitio...

04/15/2026

Looking for your next big opportunity—or just want to plug into Birmingham’s startup scene?

Join us tomorrow at Innovation Depot for the Alabama Launchpad Regional Meetup!

✨ Hear from special guest Caroline McMeans, co-founder of Homepoint and former Alabama Launchpad winner. Their tech-forward real estate platform is changing the way people buy and sell homes.
✨ Connect with founders and entrepreneurs in your community
✨ Take the mic with a 90-second pitch

📅 Thursday, April 16
⏰ 4:30–5:30 PM
📍 Innovation Depot | 1500 1st Ave N

Hosted in partnership with Innovation Depot.

Save your spot: https://alabamalaunchpad.com/regional-meetups/

03/12/2026

The next generation of Alabama startups is here.

Alabama Launchpad has announced the 10 finalists for the Cycle 1 2026 competition, featuring founders building innovative companies in technology and life sciences across the state.

From AI platforms and prosthetic innovations to advanced drug testing models and healthcare technologies, these startups are tackling real challenges while helping grow Alabama’s economy.

Each finalist receives $2,500 in funding and 12 weeks of mentorship as they prepare to compete for up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding.

Since 2006, Alabama Launchpad has invested more than $6.6 million in 120+ startups, helping generate 1,600 jobs and more than $260 million in follow-on funding.

Meet the finalists and learn more 👇
https://alabamalaunchpad.com/news/alabama-launchpad-announces-10-finalists-for-cycle-1-2026-competition/

03/09/2026

🚀 Tech and Life Sciences Founders — Applications Are Open

Are you building something new?

A software or AI platform solving a real problem?
A medical device improving patient outcomes?
A biotech innovation?
A cybersecurity or defense technology?

Alabama Launchpad Cycle 2 is now accepting applications.

Selected founders will receive:
✔️ $2,500 to test business strategies
✔️ Guidance from experienced Launch Advisors
✔️ The opportunity to pitch for $75,000–$100,000 in funding

📅 Priority Deadline: July 1, 2026
Apply early to receive feedback and strengthen your application.

📅 Final Deadline: August 13, 2026

If you're building the future in tech or life sciences, this is your opportunity to move your idea forward.

Apply today → https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

01/30/2026

If you’re building in Technology, Alabama Launchpad helps founders refine their strategy, strengthen their pitch, and compete for $75,000 in funding.

🚀 Apply by February 18: https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

01/27/2026

Whether you’re building in Life Sciences or Technology, Alabama Launchpad helps founders sharpen their business, gain expert guidance, and compete for meaningful funding—$100,000 for Life Sciences and $75,000 for Technology.

If you’re ready to move from idea to impact, this is your moment.
🚀 Apply by February 18 here https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

01/23/2026

If you’re building in Life Sciences, Alabama Launchpad helps turn innovation into real-world impact with expert guidance, meaningful mentorship, and the opportunity to compete for $100,000 in funding.

🚀 Apply by February 18 here: https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

01/21/2026

Do you—or someone you know—own a business or have a big idea? 🚀 Alabama Launchpad could be the next step toward making it happen.

Applications for Cycle 1 | 2026 close February 18. Get expert guidance, refine your business, and compete for up to $100,000 in funding. Don’t miss your chance to take the next step.

Apply here: https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

12/29/2025

Mentorship outlasts money. Because great founders need more than funding — they need guidance, community, and the tools to grow stronger with every challenge. Apply anytime — applications are now open on our website! https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/

12/23/2025

Ryan Robinett highlights a truth more founders need to embrace: startups succeed through collaboration, not rivalry.

The strongest companies aren’t built in isolation — they grow faster when surrounded by peers who share insights, challenge assumptions, and open doors to new opportunities.

In today’s startup ecosystem, collaboration accelerates learning, sharpens ex*****on, and helps founders avoid mistakes others have already solved.

Instead of competing for attention, resources, or validation, founders who build together create real momentum.

As Ryan explains, collaboration isn’t just a mindset — it’s a competitive advantage.

12/18/2025

Big pitches grab attention. Lasting businesses change communities. Launchpad gives founders the strategy, network, and confidence to build something that lasts long after the spotlight fades. You can apply now — rolling applications are live on our site! https://alabamalaunchpad.com/launch-prep/