Sloss Tech 2025 recently wrapped up its most successful year yet, attracting an impressive 1,392 attendees in Birmingham’s historic theatre district. Organized by TechBirmingham and announced by the Annual Technical Council of Innovate Alabama, this year’s event expanded to three days, showcasing a 56% increase in attendance compared to 2024.
The event showcased a vibrant mix of 95 speakers, 50 startups, keynote addresses, pitch competitions, and plenty of networking chances.
“What we experienced this year was really something special,” remarked Deon Gordon, president and CEO of TechBirmingham. “The 56% increase in attendance and the transition to three days reflects the growing momentum within the Southeast’s innovation scene. Birmingham, along with the wider Southeast, is truly leading the charge in technology.”
A standout moment was the inaugural Southeast Pitch competition at Sloss.tech/ideas, where the Regional Foundation conferred $75,000 in awards to startups from various sectors, including Agtech, HealthTech, Mobility, and Emerging Tech. Wink Therapeutics from Miramar, Florida, took home a $50,000 Grand Prize, while Atlanta’s Helide secured the $10,000 People’s Choice Award. Other award winners included Good Agriculture (AGTECH), Heride (Mobility), and Giggs (Emerging Tech).
“The caliber of innovations presented by these southeastern startups was impressive,” noted Marta Self, executive director of the Regional Foundation. “These companies embody the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels economic growth in our region, and we’re proud to assist them in this competitive landscape.”
Inclusivity was also a significant focus this year, with Tech programs offering 200 free tickets to students and early career professionals. Since the initiative began in 2023, over 500 individuals have taken advantage of the opportunity to connect with recruiters from companies like NASCAR and Aid Lifestyle.
This year’s lineup boasted several notable figures, including Zack Kass, former market head of OpenAI, venture capitalist Rashaun Williams from “Shark Tank,” brand strategist Johnny Cupcake, and Dr. Leha Benjamin from Princeton, who addressed the intersection of technology and social equity.
Beyond the conference, attendees enjoyed an afterparty called shindigit@l:rhythm & code, reinforcing Sloss Tech’s commitment to blending innovation with Southern hospitality.
Key stats from the 2025 event included:
- Attendance: 1,392 (up 56.2% from 2024)
- Revenue: Up 32% in ticket sales
- Sponsorship: 64 sponsors, a significant rise from 35 in 2024 (an increase of 82.86%)
- Digital Reach: 100,000 views on Instagram in June, 10,000 accounts engaged, 450 new followers, and a 90% growth on LinkedIn
“The Alabama tech community continues to distinguish itself through collaboration and support,” emphasized Maria Underwood, chairman of TechBirmingham. “Founders and attendees at Sloss Tech 2025 discovered an enthusiastic community eager to facilitate their success, backed by genuine connections that make our area unique.”
With this strong momentum, Sloss Tech has established itself as a pivotal hub for innovation in the Southeast.
“From steel to startups, Birmingham has always been a city of builders,” Gordon stated. “Sloss Tech 2025 has demonstrated that we are not merely partaking in the future of technology; we are actively shaping it.”
