Alabama Launchpad is raising the stakes for 2025 startup competition—more funding, bigger prizes + more

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Now is the chance to launch your startup to its greatest potential, (Alabama Launchpad)

As 2025 kicks off, Alabama Launchpad is shaking up the startup scene with a bold new format designed to supercharge innovation across the state.

Known for nurturing early-stage businesses, the program is entering an exciting new era, offering tailored support and funding for aspiring entrepreneurs while reflecting the industries driving Alabama’s growth.

And guess what? It could be your time to shine—apply by February 14 to be considered for the first cycle of 2025.

What’s new in 2025?

Founders will have the chance to network and gain experience from industry professionals. (Alabama Launchpad)

If you’re familiar with Alabama Launchpad, you’re likely familiar with the format: finalists collaborate with other startups, learn from experienced entrepreneurs and compete for nondiluted funding towards their startup. 

Past competitors include local businesses like Domestique Coffee, Acclinate, Alabama Sawyer and Wyndy.

So, what’s changing? In 2025, finalists will pitch to specialized investor committees within their track, replacing the traditional live pitch event with a more focused and impactful experience.

Plus, time is money and Alabama Launchpad knows it. That’s why this year’s competition is introducing more money, more prizes and more potential to grow your business.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Stipends: Every finalist will receive a $2,500 stipend before the competition to help offset costs upfront.
• Showcase awards: Beyond the stipends, an additional $15,000 in finalist awards is up for grabs at the end of each cycle.
• Three tracks: Every finalist will compete in one of three distinct tracks—life sciences, technology and consumer goods—with tailored mentorship for each industry.
• Year-end Finale: Instead of live pitches, winners will be celebrated and presented with their checks at Alabama’s State of Innovation Day, in partnership with Innovate Alabama.

The prize money is growing too—here’s a look at what Alabama Launchpad winners in each track could take home:

• Consumer goods—$50K
• Technology—$75K
• Life Sciences—$100K

Why it matters

Nyad co-founder Virginia Szepietowski. (Alabama Launchpad)

Alabama Launchpad isn’t just keeping pace with the entrepreneurial world—it’s leading the charge, ensuring our state’s startups get the support they need to thrive. 

To learn more about its impact on growing startups, we talked to the co-founder of Nyad, the latest cycle’s winner.

Nyad’s founders, Virginia and Chris, are London-based entrepreneurs who have crossed the pond to Alabama to research water pollution with an AI-driven solution.

“Our experience with Alabama Launchpad was transformative for both our startup, Nyad, and us as founders. The advisors and EDPA team provided invaluable support, not just in refining our business intricacies and sales strategies, but also in helping us clearly articulate our vision for Nyad’s future, and helping us to integrate from the UK into Alabama. Just the taking part and advice along the way was a huge win. 

Winning the competition was our first external funding into Nyad, and was real rocket fuel to establish our product prototype allowing us to deliver early projects.”

According to Virginia, Birmingham’s thriving entrepreneurial scene was the perfect place to grow their startup.

“Birmingham, Alabama has been the most welcoming and vibrant place to grow our startup! The entrepreneurial ecosystem here is thriving, and the connections we’ve made through Alabama Launchpad, the EDPA and the Innovation Depot have been instrumental in building relationships with partners and customers.

The city’s warmth and energy have made the startup journey incredibly rewarding, and we’re so grateful for the opportunities and friends we’ve found here.”

Apply to launch your startup by February 14

There’s never been a better time to apply. (Alabama Launchpad)

If you’re ready to take your startup or small business to the next level, now’s the time to act. 

With stipends, awards and prizes, you can walk away with valuable funding even if you don’t win.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting new chapter in Alabama’s innovation story—Apply for Alabama Launchpad by February 14.

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