BIRMINGHAM – The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, in partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission and Innovate Alabama, announce the launch of the HBCU Innovation Internship Program – designed to diversify the pipeline of tech talent and create opportunities for underserved populations in the tech sector.
The 12-week HBCU Innovation Internship Program, which kicked off last month, is in
full swing. It provides exposure, hands-on work experience, and supplementary professional development for seven selected students from four partnering Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Alabama: Alabama A&M University, Miles College, Shelton State Community College and Tuskegee University.
Organizers said the program is dedicated to addressing the challenges young Black professionals face and providing them with a pathway to success in the innovative landscape. By placing students from Alabama HBCUs in paid internships with six Alabama-based tech startups, accelerators, and incubators, the program’s aim is to create opportunities and lasting impact.
The long-term hope is that these students will not only enjoy careers in startups or innovative organizations, but that they will do so here in Alabama.
“As we launch the HBCU Innovation Internship Program, we are not only addressing the critical need for diverse talent in the tech sector, but we are also fostering a supportive environment for the career development of young Black professionals,” said Miller Girvin, executive vice president of Innovation and Talent at EDPA. “By providing hands-on internship experiences at innovative Alabama companies, we are sowing the seeds for a more inclusive and dynamic future.
“We are excited to witness the positive impact that these talented students will undoubtedly bring to the tech industry and beyond.”
The six companies are HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator and Prosper HealthTech Accelerator, both powered by gener8tor; Techstars EnergyTech Accelerator; Innovation Depot; Immediate; and Decatur-Morgan County E-Center.
“We couldn’t be more pleased with the additional capacity and perspective that our intern
brings to our team,” said Kellie Clark, gener8tor’s managing director of the Prosper HealthTech Accelerator. “Additionally, we believe that success moves at the speed of relationships – which makes us even more excited to expand our intern’s professional network.”
Interns were chosen from applicants who participated in an Interview Day with participating employers. Their selection was based on interest in tech and
entrepreneurship, GPA, race and ethnicity, interview performance, enrollment status and the ability to reflect the program’s commitment to a holistic and inclusive approach.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
