BIRMINGHAM – Building on the success of its inaugural program, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama has launched the second iteration of its HBCU Innovation Internship Program.
Through its partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, and Innovate Alabama, the EDPA program this fall will welcome an expanded cohort, a significant growth from the inaugural session.
The new cohort will benefit from placements with returning and new employer partners.
The program includes three additional employers: Analytical AI, the Alabama Business Intelligence Center, and Chambers County Innovation Center, alongside the original six partners – Techstars EnergyTech Accelerator, Prosper HealthTech Accelerator, Innovation Depot, HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator, Immediate and Decatur-Morgan County E-Center.
“The HBCU Innovation Internship Program stands as a testament Alabama’s commitment to diversifying the tech talent pipeline and fostering innovation throughout the state,” said Jason Watters, Alabama Power’s workforce development coordinator, who has helped facilitate recruiting for the initiative. “We are excited to build on the success through our second cohort and continue providing meaningful opportunities for students to contribute to our thriving tech ecosystem.”
Key highlights for the upcoming fall session include:
- Eight interns are placed across a diverse range of tech companies.
- Three new employer partners joining the initiative.
- One intern from the inaugural cohort has secured a full-time position due to his performance and introductions made by Prosper HealthTech Accelerator.
- One returning intern will be placed with a new partner organization.
- Fourteen interns have been impacted by the program over the past year, underscoring its growing reach and effectiveness.
The program is building up with four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Alabama: Alabama A&M University, Miles College, Shelton State Community College, and Tuskegee University.
“Our partnership with the HBCU Innovation Internship Program allows us to engage with interns who bring valuable skills and fresh perspectives to the table,” said Kellie Clark, managing director of the Prosper Birmingham Accelerator (gener8tor). “Prosper HealthTech Accelerator’s goal is to provide a meaningful experience that adds value to both the intern and our organization. For employers, this is an opportunity to develop future leaders of innovation and venture with intention.
“We’re laying the groundwork for the eventual handoff, ensuring Alabama remains in capable hands and has a prosperous, equitable future — long after we’re gone.”
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