06/16/2026
Five years ago, Prosper began with a belief: Birmingham should not have to choose between a growing economy and an inclusive one.
In a new op-ed, Prosper President J.W. Carpenter and Emily Jerkins Hall, CEcD reflect on the progress Birmingham has made; from rising school performance and expanded transit to scholarship access, startup support and major investments in historically underserved neighborhoods.
The work is far from finished. But the bet remains the same: talent is distributed equally across our region, while opportunity is not. The years ahead will determine whether Birmingham builds an economy where every child, every family, and every community can prosper together.
Read the full op-ed from J.W. Carpenter and Emily Jerkins Hall at the link below.
https://www.birminghamtimes.com/2026/06/opinion-birmingham-ranks-among-the-best-at-sharing-its-growth-it-doesnt-yet-have-enough-growth-to-share/