MOBILE, Ala. – Innovation Portal, Mobile’s leading startup incubator and innovation hub, and Builders + Backers today announced a strategic partnership that will significantly expand entrepreneurial resources across Alabama’s Gulf Coast region. The collaboration establishes Innovation Portal as an official Builders + Backers affiliate, adding proven venture studio programming to the hub’s existing 30,000-square-foot innovation center in downtown Mobile’s technology corridor.

Through this partnership, Innovation Portal will integrate Builders + Backers’ venture studio model, innovation funds and programming into its existing startup ecosystem, significantly expanding resources available to local entrepreneurs. The collaboration will immediately open applications for the Spring 2025 Idea Accelerator program, offering Gulf Coast residents the opportunity to transform their innovative ideas into viable enterprises.

“Since opening our doors, Innovation Portal has been committed to creating a dynamic, inclusive ecosystem for entrepreneurs in Mobile,” said Todd Greer, Executive Director of Innovation Portal. “Building on the success of previous Builders + Backers Idea Accelerator cohorts in our community, this deepened partnership significantly expands our ability to support founders at the earliest stages of their journey. By combining our deep local networks and mentorship with Builders + Backers’ proven methodology and resources, we’re creating unprecedented opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to build and scale successful ventures.”

The partnership, made possible through the Innovate Alabama Tax Credit program, will enhance Innovation Portal’s existing programming with Builders + Backers’ comprehensive suite of entrepreneurial resources, including the Idea Ignitor Workshops, community Idea Challenges, and the flagship Idea Accelerator program. This collaboration aims to activate new entrepreneurs from untapped populations and accelerate technology commercialization across the region.

Selected participants in the Spring 2025 Idea Accelerator will receive up to $5,000 in non-dilutive funding and dedicated assistance from both Innovation Portal and Builders + Backers’ venture studio teams. The program is designed to engage broader community networks and untapped populations, ensuring that entrepreneurial opportunities are accessible to all residents of the Gulf Coast region.

“Innovation Portal’s track record of fostering startup growth and inclusive innovation in Mobile makes them an ideal partner,” said Donna Harris, CEO of Builders + Backers. “Together, we’re creating a powerful platform that will not only launch new businesses but also ignite a culture of innovation across

the Gulf Coast. This partnership exemplifies our belief that great ideas can come from anywhere, and with the right support, anyone can become a successful builder.”

The Idea Accelerator program combines a rapid Builder Bootcamp with hands-on experiment execution, enabling participants to rapidly test and validate their business concepts with the help of a dedicated Idea-stage Venture Studio team. Applications are now open through March 15, 2025, with the program set to begin in April 2025. Interested residents can learn more and apply at bit.ly/spring25-apply.

About Innovation Portal Innovation Portal is a nonprofit incubator and innovation hub accelerating startup growth in the Gulf Coast region. Through targeted programming, workspace, and community building, Innovation Portal provides a growth-focused environment for entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives to launch and scale successful ventures. Visit: https://www.innovation-portal.com/

About Builders + Backers Builders + Backers helps entrepreneurial dreamers become Builders who create and grow promising new companies. Through innovative programs and investments, the organization makes it possible for anyone to bring their ideas to life and make a real impact in their communities. Visit: www.buildersandbackers.com