Alabama’s startup community is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year as Alabama Founder Fest returns to Birmingham on December 8–9.
Why Founder Fest Matters
The two-day festival will once again take place at Innovation Depot, bringing together founders, investors and supporters from across the state. This year’s event arrives at a key moment. Alabama recently introduced a statewide strategy focused on growing high-potential technology companies.
The effort is built around the “Alabama Puts Founders First” framework, which aligns programs from the Alabama Department of Commerce, Innovate Alabama and the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama.
Because of this coordinated push, Founder Fest acts as both a celebration and a catalyst. It strengthens relationships, highlights startup success stories and reinforces the state’s commitment to helping founders build their companies here. The event also builds on the expanded mission of Birmingham Bound, now part of EDPA, which supports founders throughout Alabama.
What to Expect at the Event
Founder Fest features two full days of activity. Day One, held on December 8, centers on Deal Flow Day. This invite-only track pairs high-growth startups with investors for focused meetings and ends with a private after-party.
Day Two, on December 9, opens to the public. Attendees can experience Pitch Blitz, where Alabama startups present live on stage for a chance at $15,000 in prize money. Guests can vote as part of the crowd-judging panel, explore the Startup Expo and meet companies launching or scaling in the state.
The competition includes categories such as sustainability, health, AI and business solutions. In addition, the Hatch Music Accelerator brings live performances, including a prize for best original song.
Statewide Celebration at Regions Field
The event then shifts on Tuesday evening to Regions Field for State of Innovation Day, Innovate Alabama’s annual showcase. This invitation-only gathering recognizes statewide progress across public, private and academic partners. It concludes with awards and a networking social designed to spark even more collaboration.
Altogether, Alabama Founder Fest offers an energetic look at the ideas, talent and momentum shaping the state’s innovation future. Whether you’re a founder, investor or simply curious about Birmingham’s growth, the event provides a front-row view of the next wave of Alabama-built companies.
Event details:
• What: Alabama Founder Fest
• When: December 8–9, 2025
• Day 1: Deal Flow Day (Invite-Only)
• Day 2: Pitch Blitz + Startup Showcase (Open to the Public)
• Where: Innovation Depot + Regions Field
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