First Horizon Bank invests $150,000 in Huntsville’s startup ecosystem

The funding supports gBETA Huntsville and Spark at MidCity, delivered in partnership with gener8tor, a nationally ranked startup accelerator and venture capital firm, and the Apollo Coalition.

This investment builds on First Horizon’s track record of supporting accelerators and entrepreneurial initiatives across Alabama, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to helping founders transform ideas into thriving businesses statewide.

“First Horizon knows firsthand what it means to build from the ground up. When we first entered Alabama in 2011, we were essentially a startup ourselves,” said Eric Sanders, executive vice president, Huntsville Market president. “We believe in investing in founders and, by supporting gener8tor and the Apollo Coalition, we are helping entrepreneurs in Huntsville access the resources, mentorship and capital they need to succeed.”

Through programs like gBETA, a free seven-week accelerator, and Spark, which helps founders turn ideas into minimum viable products, entrepreneurs receive mentorship, investor connections and tailored coaching.

Since launching, gBETA Huntsville has served 40 companies, created 163 jobs and helped startups raise more than $11 million in funding, with a total economic impact of more than $13 million.

“Corporate partners play a critical role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth in North Alabama,” said Rochelle Silviera, gBETA managing director at gener8tor. “Thanks to First Horizon’s investment, we’re able to prepare founders for investment, connect them with mentors and investors, and help them scale companies that strengthen our local economy.”

The Apollo Coalition, a Huntsville-based nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive pathways for entrepreneurs, plays a key role in ensuring these resources reach founders, artists and creatives.

“The beauty of this model is that it’s not just about funding startups. It’s about creating access,” said Apollo Coalition Managing Director Joanna White. “With First Horizon’s support, we can continue placing resources where they’ll have the greatest impact, ensuring Huntsville’s innovation economy reflects the diversity and creativity of our community.”

Huntsville founders supported through gBETA include startups like Visual Flow Code, MESO, Aesonova, KrillPay and Biobanking AI. The companies are tackling everything from artificial intelligence and drone maintenance to space innovation and financial technology.

First Horizon joins a coalition of partners supporting Huntsville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including Innovate Alabama, RCP Companies, Cobbs Allen, Robins & Morton, Regions, ALFA Farmers and Bank Independent.