Event Sheds Light on Innovative Ideas for Underserved Communities

Two Alabama A&M University teams brought home prizes at the 2024-25 Innovate Alabama Entrepreneurship Hackathon. In its second year, the event centered on addressing critical challenges in Alabama’s rural areas, such as limited access to STEM resources, the digital divide, and the lack of mentorship for youth in communities with populations under 50,000. Students tackled these issues head-on with innovative, actionable solutions aimed at creating lasting change.

Organized by The Alabama Collective, Alabama Power Foundation, and Innovate Alabama, the competition highlights the role of innovation in transforming underserved areas. 

“This hackathon demonstrates Alabama’s commitment to nurturing young minds while solving real-world problems in our rural communities,” said Chris Blake, a representative of the Alabama Power Foundation.

The day began with the Entrepreneurial Exchange Workshop, where participants engaged in expert-led discussions, received valuable mentorship, and refined their venture plans. The Top 10 teams advanced to the Pitch Finale, where the Top 5 delivered electrifying presentations to a panel of esteemed judges. The following Alabama A&M student teams won second and third prize: 

Second Place: $3,000, PlaySmart 
Third Place: $3,000, BamaPath

For more information about the Innovate Alabama Hackathon and upcoming opportunities, visit www.thealabamacollective.com.