Huntsville’s Dynamic Duo Honored as Alabama’s Top Small Business

Small Business Week Celebration

News Summary Kim and Larry Lewis of ProjectXYZ Inc. have been named Alabama’s Small Business Persons of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration, celebrating their impactful contributions and innovation within the community. With a track record of excellence since 2002, they exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship and are set to compete for the […]

Alabama Businesses Raise Alarm Over Rising Tariffs

Alabama Businesses Event

News Summary At the Buy Alabama’s Best Day event in Montgomery, local businesses voiced concerns about the effects of increasing tariffs, particularly on food products. Companies, including Milo’s Sweet Tea and Bud’s Best Cookies, are worried about balancing pricing and quality in response to new taxes. Newly established brands like Y’all Sweet Tea are also […]

Goodbye to Burris Farm Market: A Fond Farewell in Loxley, Alabama

Burris Farm Market Farewell

News Summary Burris Farm Market in Loxley, Alabama, after nearly 38 years of operation, is set for demolition. The beloved market, known for its fresh produce and treats, served the community since 1986, leaving locals nostalgic. While a new Wawa gas station will take half the site, the Burris family plans to continue selling Baldwin […]

Alabama’s Biotech Community Faces Funding Challenges

Birmingham Biotech Landscape

News Summary Alabama’s biotech sector faces uncertain times due to proposed cuts in NIH funding, which may upset ongoing research and economic stability. New BIO Alabama chair Karim Budhwani aims to unify efforts for more robust funding while addressing concerns raised by state politicians. Researchers are on high alert as the future of vital projects […]

Huntsville Duo Honored as Alabama’s Small Business Persons of the Year

Huntsville Small Business Award Celebration

News Summary Kim and Larry Lewis, the founders of PROJECTXYZ, Inc., have been named Alabama’s Small Business Persons of the Year for 2025. Their company has significantly impacted the Huntsville community by providing innovative technical solutions since 2002. This award recognizes their hard work and dedication, highlighting the essential role small businesses play in local […]

Renasant Corporation and The First Bancshares Merger Announcement

Renasant and First Bancshares Merger

News Summary Renasant Corporation plans to acquire The First Bancshares in an all-stock merger worth $1.2 billion. This collaboration aims to create a banking powerhouse in the Southeastern US, combining assets totaling approximately $26 billion and expanding banking locations across the region. The merger is set to close on April 1, 2025, pending regulatory approvals, […]

Hilo’s Energy Landscape Transforms with Hamakua Plant Sale

Hamakua Energy Plant Transformation

News Summary Hilo’s energy scene faces a significant shift as Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. sells the Hamakua Energy Plant to Harbert Management Corp. The sale, finalized on March 10, 2025, follows a tumultuous year for HEI’s subsidiary, which experienced substantial operational losses. The change aims to enhance sustainability and optimize power production as Harbert steps […]

Alabama Delegation on a Mission to Poland for Aerospace Growth

Alabama Delegation in Poland for Aerospace and Defense

News Summary A delegation from Alabama, including six aerospace and defense companies, has arrived in Poland to explore trade opportunities. This mission, organized by the Alabama Department of Commerce and Export Alabama, aims to enhance business ties in Poland’s growing economy, focusing on sectors like aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity. Supported by a U.S. Small Business […]

Birmingham Secures $2.7 Million for Biotech Companies

Birmingham Biotech Lab

News Summary Birmingham, Alabama, is set to benefit from over $2.7 million in funding awarded to eight innovative biotech companies by Southern Research. This funding, sourced from the Therapeutics Development Fund, aims to enhance medical advancements and job opportunities in the region. The initiative, supported by the Innovate Alabama Tax Credit, will not only aid […]

Birmingham Community Mourns the Loss of Banking Icon

Tribute to Birmingham Banking Icon

News Summary The Birmingham community is grieving the sudden loss of Chip Smallwood, a respected banking executive who passed away at the age of 64. Known for his dedication to both his career and family, Smallwood had a significant impact on the local banking landscape during his tenure at JPMorgan Chase and other institutions. His […]