The Alabama Collective has officially wrapped its Fall 2025 💡 Innovation Power Hours, a statewide initiative designed to bring hands-on innovation, emerging technology, and entrepreneurial thinking directly to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across Alabama.
Over the course of the fall semester, the program reached hundreds of students and faculty at five institutions: Alabama State University, Alabama A&M University, Miles College, Tuskegee University, and Bishop State Community College. Each campus stop created a high-energy learning environment focused on creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem solving.
Bringing Innovation Directly to Alabama’s HBCU Campuses
The Innovation Power Hours were intentionally designed to meet students where they are—on campus and in community. Each session offered a fast-paced, immersive experience that introduced participants to design thinking, technology trends, AI concepts, and entrepreneurship fundamentals in an accessible and engaging format.
Students took part in interactive challenges, team-based workshops, and solution-driven discussions that encouraged them to think critically about real-world issues while exploring how innovation can be applied across industries.
Empowering the Next Generation of Tech and Business Leaders
"Our HBCUs are filled with extraordinary talent and bold ideas. The Innovation Power Hours were created to highlight that brilliance while giving students practical tools and exposure to careers in technology, AI, and entrepreneurship.“
Throughout the sessions, students pitched ideas, tested creative solutions, and connected with professionals and mentors who shared firsthand insights into tech-driven career pathways. Giveaways, prizes, and networking opportunities added excitement while reinforcing the program’s hands-on approach.
Looking Ahead: Innovation Power Hours Continue in 2026
Following the success of the Fall 2025 series, The Alabama Collective plans to expand the Innovation Power Hours in 2026, with additional campus visits, deeper partnerships, and even more opportunities for students and faculty across the state.
The Alabama Collective’s Fall 2025 Innovation Power Hours successfully delivered hands-on innovation experiences to HBCU campuses across Alabama, engaging hundreds of students in technology, AI, and entrepreneurship.
Through interactive workshops, real-world challenges, and direct access to mentors, the initiative reinforced The Alabama Collective’s commitment to expanding opportunity and preparing the next generation for success in the digital economy.
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About "The Alabama Collective"
The Alabama Collective is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the opportunity gap by equipping underrepresented communities with the skills, resources, and access needed to thrive in the digital economy. Through innovative programming, partnerships, and workforce development initiatives, the organization focuses on technology, entrepreneurship, and future-ready careers.
By bringing experiences like Innovation Power Hours directly to campuses and communities, The Alabama Collective helps ensure Alabama’s talent is prepared not just to participate—but to lead—in tomorrow’s economy. https://thealabamacollective.com/
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Participating HBCUs
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Alabama State University
Located in Montgomery, Alabama State University is a public HBCU known for its strong academic programs, research initiatives, and commitment to leadership development and community engagement.
Alabama A&M University
Based in Huntsville, Alabama A&M University is a land-grant HBCU with a focus on STEM, innovation, and research that prepares students for careers in science, technology, and engineering fields.
Miles College
Miles College, a private liberal arts HBCU in Birmingham, emphasizes leadership, service, and academic excellence while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among its students.
Tuskegee University
Tuskegee University is a nationally recognized HBCU with a historic legacy in education, research, and innovation, particularly in STEM, aviation, and engineering disciplines.
Bishop State Community College
Located in Mobile, Bishop State Community College provides accessible, career-focused education and workforce training, helping students gain practical skills aligned with today’s job market.
