MOBILE, Ala. –  As the University of South Alabama (USA) prepares to welcome more than 2,000 first-time freshmen this year, the Office of Southbound Visits and Orientation is calling on the local business community to help introduce these new residents to everything the Port City has to offer.

The university has officially opened registration for the Southbound “Meet Mobile” Fair 2026. This signature event, a featured component of New Student Orientation, provides a unique platform for Mobile-area businesses*, nonprofits, and organizations to connect directly with incoming students and their families.

Connecting Campus to Community

The “Meet Mobile” Fair is designed to bridge the gap between campus life and the vibrant culture of the city. By hosting informational tables, local vendors can ensure their brands are “top of mind” for students as they decide where to shop, dine, volunteer, and spend their leisure time.

“Our hope is that students not only fall in love with the University of South Alabama, but also the Mobile community,” said the Southbound Visits and Orientation Team. “Mobilians truly are ‘Born to Celebrate,’ and we want our newest students to feel that energy from the moment they arrive.”

Partnership and Sponsorship Opportunities

The university is offering several sponsorship packages tailored to different organizational needs. These partnerships allow businesses to:

● Engage Directly: Meet face-to-face with over 2,000 students and their families.

● Build Loyalty: Establish brand presence at the very beginning of the four-year college journey.

● Support Local Growth: Play an active role in welcoming the next generation of Mobile’s workforce and consumer base.

Early Bird Special

In an effort to kickstart the summer preparations, the university has announced an Early Bird Special. The first 10 businesses to register and secure a sponsorship will receive exclusive social media features in posts that directly target the incoming freshman class.

Local business owners and organization leaders interested in participating as a general or title sponsor are encouraged to email the Southbound Visits and Orientation Team. The team will provide program details for review so that interested parties can reserve their spots immediately to ensure inclusion in orientation materials. For more information, contact southbound@southalabama.edu.

About the University of South Alabama
The University of South Alabama is a comprehensive, global research university in Mobile, Alabama, that provides students with exceptional academic, environmental, and social experiences. With a commitment to high-level research and healthcare, USA serves as a catalyst for professional and economic development in the Gulf Coast region.