HBCU Innovation Internship program in Alabama nearly doubles student placements to 29 in 2025

The HBCU Innovation Internship program, a collaboration with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama and Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, has significantly expanded its reach, placing 29 students in 2025, nearly doubling the 16 placements from the previous year. This program aims to connect students from Alabama's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with vital resources in the innovation sector.

The program spans various sectors, including startups, accelerators, public-private partnerships, and incubators, all dedicated to enhancing Alabama's innovation ecosystem. Kelly Clark, managing director of the Prosper HealthTech Accelerator, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The talent is absolutely here—it’s just about capturing it.”

The Fall 2025 cohort features students from eight partnering HBCUs, including Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, and Tuskegee University, showcasing the diverse talent pool available in the state. This growth reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and opportunity for students in Alabama's innovation landscape.

The HBCU Innovation Internship program in Alabama has nearly doubled its student placements to 29 for 2025, up from 16 in 2024. This initiative connects students from Alabama's Historically Black Colleges and Universities with startups and innovation hubs, fostering a more inclusive ecosystem.