Media contact:
Jackie Batson, Executive Director
404-268-4102
jackie@downtowncalera.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2025
Calera, AL — Calera Main Street is proud to announce its recent designation as a member of the Innovate Alabama Network, a statewide initiative dedicated to fostering innovation by connecting communities, nonprofits, and higher education institutions across Alabama.
Innovate Alabama serves as the state’s premier public-private partnership, committed to nurturing entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation. The organization implements initiatives that strengthen Alabama’s innovation ecosystem, aiming to create a more resilient, inclusive, and robust economy.
This prestigious designation recognizes Calera Main Street’s ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Calera through innovative projects and community engagement. As a member of the Innovate Alabama Network, Calera Main Street will have access to a comprehensive resource platform, fostering collaboration and providing support to further its mission of economic development and historic preservation.
“Being part of the Innovate Alabama Network is a significant honor for us,” said Jackie Batson, Executive Director of Calera Main Street. “This designation not only acknowledges our past achievements but also propels us toward future initiatives that will enhance the vibrancy and economic prosperity of downtown Calera.”
“Calera Main Street’s induction into the Innovate Alabama Network demonstrates how Shelby County communities are embracing their role in building a robust, statewide innovation ecosystem,” stated Reid Knight, Director of Development at 58 INC | Shelby County Economic Development Corporation. In 2024, 58 INC spearheaded Shelby County’s Innovation Ecosystem Awareness Campaign with the mission of encouraging and educating our communities on their critical role in Alabama’s innovation economy. Calera Main Street’s well-earned designation demonstrates that when Shelby County communities are given the opportunity to support our innovation economy, they are ready.
The Innovate Alabama Network aims to catalyze innovation by focusing on three core components of a healthy ecosystem: people, places, and resources. By joining this network, Calera Main Street aligns itself with nearly 170 organizations statewide that are dedicated to driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurship.
“The Innovate Alabama Network is a catalyst, creating and strengthening our statewide network for innovation programming and bolstering entrepreneurship in all types of communities across the state,” said Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama. “We are encouraged by the continual growth of interest in the program, spurred by momentum built in the first two rounds of awards. Innovate Alabama is eager to harness this excitement to support designees through our most engaging and connective resources yet.”
For more information about Calera Main Street and its initiatives, please visit our website. To learn more about Innovate Alabama and the Innovate Alabama Network, visit the website.
