Nationally Ranked Startup Accelerator Expands to East Alabama with Launch of gALPHA Earth Program
Powered by gener8tor, the new program welcomes aspiring entrepreneurs from across Alabama
SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Today, nationally ranked venture capital firm gener8tor announced the launch of its newest Alabama-based accelerator program, gALPHA earth, in partnership with the East Alabama Rural Innovation & Training Hub (earth) and the Sylacauga Chamber of Commerce. Applications are now open for the free, four-week program designed to help idea-stage entrepreneurs turn concepts into real, viable businesses.
Set to kick off October 28, gALPHA earth marks gener8tor’s first-ever gALPHA program in Alabama that is open to all residents statewide, regardless of background, education level or industry. The program, held at earth in Sylacauga, will be offered twice per year and is designed to reach aspiring Alabama founders.
Interested applicants must apply by Sunday, October 19, using this application form. gener8tor is also recruiting for a director position to lead gALPHA earth, with plans to hire by September. Interested applicants can learn more about the role here.
“By opening the doors of gALPHA to anyone in Alabama, no matter where they are or what their background is, we’re taking real action to ensure innovation is accessible and inclusive,” said Rochelle Silveira, gener8tor gBETA Managing Director. “Alongside our recently announced Alabama Forestry Accelerator in Dothan, gALPHA earth is further proof of our commitment to building entrepreneurial ecosystems in communities that are often overlooked but full of potential.”
This launch solidifies Alabama as gener8tor’s most program-rich state, with active programming in Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, Dothan and now Sylacauga. Since expanding into the state, gener8tor has supported nearly 200 companies and contributed $162 million in economic impact.
Located at earth, an innovation hub dedicated to uplifting rural communities in East Alabama, gALPHA earth will complement the center’s broader offerings, including business incubation, workforce training and small business support services.
“earth exists to equip East Alabama with the tools and training needed for economic resilience and growth,” said Beverly Price, Chief Workforce Development Officer for the Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement (SAFE). “Partnering with gener8tor on gALPHA earth strengthens our ability to help individuals turn ideas into ventures, and, ultimately, create sustainable pathways for job creation and entrepreneurship in rural communities.”
The Sylacauga Chamber of Commerce, a key partner in the effort, sees this new program as a catalyst for long-term economic growth and talent retention in the area.
“gALPHA earth is about more than launching businesses. It’s about building a future for Sylacauga,” said Laura Strickland, President and CEO of the Sylacauga Chamber of Commerce. “This program invites people to plant roots here, to not only start companies but to build lives in our community. That’s a powerful message for our future workforce and families.”
About gener8tor
gener8tor is a global venture firm and accelerator network that supports startups, workers, employers, artists and musicians across race, place and gender. gener8tor partners with companies, governments, universities and nonprofits to operate programs and conferences in more than 41 communities across 22 states and two countries. Fast Company named gener8tor one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021 and 2022. The International Trade Council recognized gener8tor as the Global Venture Capital Firm of the Year in 2022.
About East Alabama Rural Innovation & Training Hub (earth)
The East Alabama Rural Innovation and Training Hub (earth) is an economic development solution that includes incubation and innovation of rural ideas while focusing on knowledge-based skills and education, technology growth, and entrepreneurship across the lifespan. Its core mission is to provide East Alabama an efficient and effective workforce development system that is responsive to current needs of individuals and businesses while also looking forward to future economic development initiatives.
