The Economic Development Partnership of Alabama’s program, Alabama Launchpad, has selected 10 finalists to compete in Cycle 1 2023. Entrepreneurs participating in the concept stage and in the early seed stage will compete for a combined $75,000 in a finale that will take place April 20, in Tuscaloosa.
Alabama Launchpad has funded 112 startups and invested more than $6 million in nondilutive funding to date. Its winning companies have a combined post-money valuation of more than $1 billion and have generated more than 1,300 jobs across the state.
“In its 16th year, Launchpad is proud of the role that it has played within the Alabama startup ecosystem,” said Miller Girvin, executive vice president of innovation and talent at EDPA. “We look forward to seeing all of our Cycle 1 Launchpad finalists move through this mentorship process, taking their companies to the next level.”
Those competing in the concept stage and for $25,000 are: PowerTechs, which helps energy companies repurpose their workforce to renewables; NanomediGene LLC, which develops nanotechnology and drug delivery systems for patients facing chronic diseases; Dani Cheesecake, a creator of 40 no-bake cheesecake flavors in a jar; Welcomed Benefit Corp., a lifestyle brand with products, educational content and supportive resources; and Cahaba Fire Co. LLC, a developer of products for fire departments and first responders.
Competing in the early seed stage and for $50,000 are: Sweet Home Spirits, presenting quality spirits and products with “Sweet Home” branding; Daughters Baking, specializing in “naked-style” cakes; Harmony Diagnostics, a provider of a cost-effective solution for testing for sexually transmitted infections; Idyllo, which helps homeowners find professionals for home improvement projects; and Domestique Coffee LLC, a coffee, hospitality and lifestyle brand that provides cultural experiences.
