Alabama Shines: Huntsville & Auburn/Opelika Snag National Economic Development Awards!

Get ready to cheer, ChumCity! Alabama is making waves on the national stage! Huntsville and the dynamic duo of Auburn/Opelika have just snagged the prestigious 2025 Mac Conway Award for Economic Development Excellence from “Site Selection” magazine!

What's the Mac Conway Award?

Think of it as the Oscars for economic growth! Named after McKinley "Mac" Conway, the founder of "Site Selection," this award recognizes the top dogs in economic development. Judges looked at job creation, big-time investments, and successful corporate projects. They even consulted the experts at the Milken Institute and Heartland Forward.

Why the Hype?

This award proves Alabama is where it's at for companies looking to invest and create jobs. As Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, put it, "Alabama’s communities are delivering results!"

Auburn/Opelika: A Growth Powerhouse

Auburn is booming! Just last year, the city welcomed three new companies and celebrated six expansions, resulting in 350 new jobs and nearly $182 million in investments! Mayor Ron Anders credits Auburn University and the city's vibrant business community for creating an "ecosystem of innovation."

Opelika is right there with them, bringing in over $2.6 billion in capital investment and more than 5,700 new jobs in recent years, according to Economic Development Director John Sweatman.

Huntsville: Rocket City Reaches New Heights

Huntsville continues to solidify its status as an innovation hub, ranking No. 4 nationally on the Milken Institute's list of top-performing cities! From aerospace to life sciences, and even a thriving music scene, Huntsville is on fire!

Lucia Cape, from the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, highlighted exciting growth in life sciences and the area's innovative music initiatives, like the Orion Amphitheater and the South Star Music Festival.

Alabama's Economic Boom is Real

Secretary McNair sums it up perfectly: "Alabama’s momentum in economic development is unmistakable!" These awards prove that strategic investment, a skilled workforce, and collaboration are the keys to creating a lasting economic impact across the state.