Governor Kay Ivey recently shared that the application period for the third phase of the state’s seed grant program is set to begin on July 1. This round will offer $23.2 million aimed at enhancing site assessment and development efforts throughout Alabama.

The seed program, which stands for site assessment and economic development strategy, is overseen by the Alabama Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA). It aims to bolster the state’s inventory of industrial sites, thereby enhancing Alabama’s standing in attracting substantial economic development initiatives.

Once applications are open, communities will have the chance to seek funding through the seeds program. The deadline for submissions will be September 30.

In previous rounds of funding, a total of 56 sites benefited, aiding communities and economic development organizations in their essential site preparation work.

“Alabama remains a frontrunner in economic development, and having available sites is crucial to our achievements,” Gov. Ivey remarked.

“The Seeds program represents a thoughtful, strategic investment in our future, and we’re eager to see more communities reaping the rewards of this next opportunity,” she added.

The upcoming seeds initiative

For Round 3, the Seeds program will offer support for both site assessment grants, which will evaluate potential for new or underutilized sites, and site development grants to fund targeted improvements that promote readiness for industrial projects.

“We’ve witnessed how Seeds Funding has the power to transform promising properties into viable candidates for projects that generate jobs,” said Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair.

“This upcoming funding will allow us to keep building on that progress and ensure our Alabama community is primed for sustainable growth,” she added.

The EDPA is instrumental in managing the Seeds program and aligning investments with the state’s overall economic development strategy.

“We take pride in collaborating with Governor Ivey and the Alabama Department of Commerce, enabling the community to unlock the full potential of industrial sites,” commented EDPA President Miller Girvin.

“The Seeds initiative is making a significant impact on the ground, and we look forward to partnering with local leaders for a successful Round 3,” she mentioned.

For those seeking a site consultation or having any inquiries, EDPA urges applicants to reach out to Greg Blalock at [email protected] or (205) 943-4750.