who we are
Alabama has reached new milestones in attracting industry over the last 15 years, and the Economic Development Partnership has been integral to the state's success.Established in 1991, EDPA is a private, non-profit organization supported by leading businesses in Alabama dedicated to the state's long-term economic growth.
The Partnership's staff works closely with state, regional, corporate and local organizations to contribute to Alabama's economic development efforts. Since its inception, EDPA has provided additional resources that have made Alabama a more effective competitor for economic development projects.
EDPA's primary focus is on helping the state attract and retain industry, ensuring quality jobs for Alabamians. EDPA fills a critical role in the industrial recruitment process by marketing and promoting Alabama as a business location, and by providing research, information and proposals to companies and consultants that are actively searching for a site.
Success Stories
EDPA has played a pivotal role in some of Alabama's most noteworthy economic development successes. In 1993, EDPA joined in the effort to attract Mercedes-Benz. The Partnership was also a key player in recruiting companies such as Boeing, Honda and Hyundai to Alabama. The Partnership has joined with state and local officials on hundreds of small and large projects across the state that have increased Alabama's economic base. EDPA has led efforts to market Alabama as an automotive leader, while also working to attract investment in virtually every industry sector.EDPA works closely with others in the state to address critical issues that affect economic growth. EDPA was the catalyst behind the development of the Alabama Technology Network, which provides technical support, work force development and technology transfer to enhance the competitiveness of Alabama manufacturers.
EDPA is a founding member and takes a leadership role in other initiatives that support economic development, including the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association, the Alabama Aerospace Industry Association and the Alabama Tourism Partnership.
EDPA continues to act as a catalyst for innovation, researching and implementing new programs to further the drive for economic growth in Alabama and to keep the state competitive in the new economy.
Programs/Activities:
Marketing
- Strategic marketing to target industries
- Trade shows and events
- Targeted advertising
- Promotional materials
- Partners magazine
- Media Relations/Publicity
- Website management
Business Information
- Proposal development
- Proposal development support for communities
- Buildings, sites and communities database
- PowerPoint slide library for communities
- Collaborative research projects with other economic developers
- Customized demographic reports
- Target industry research
Foundations for Growth Existing Industry Program
- Confidential database of existing industry information
- Strategic tool to find growth opportunities
- Method to predict companies at risk
- Analytics on workforce and infrastructure needs
- Assistance in designing local existing industry programs
- Training for community interviewers