Private Sector Engagement

Rural, persistent poverty counties and coal impacted counties today, such as exist throughout Wider West Alabama and the Black Belt, tend to be largely rural with few large private sector employers. Yet, DRIVE is fortunate to have the clearly articulated support and investment of many of the largest private sector employers in the state. These investments will help move broadband coverage forward across the state, making outreach and education into rural areas in addition to remote working, possible in a way they have never been before. These private sector investments layer incredibly well with the state of Alabama’s investments in EV across the state, providing a new opportunity for increased private sector engagement in Wider West Alabama.

Since Phase I, our Coalition has received broad and unwavering support from the private sector, including all five of Alabama’s automotive OEMs, their suppliers, utilities companies, and workforce training providers.

These commitments have taken on different forms. Some of our partners have already made financial contributions. For example, MBUSI and Alabama Power have made in-kind contributions totaling over $1 million to support the construction of the AMP Center.

Others have committed their resources if the grant is successful. For instance, as part of the Drive, Ride, Walk initiative, Via Transportation has com-mi!ed to providing flexible transportation options to current and future employees in the region.

Others have committed to donate their state- of-the-art technology. To outfit new technology hubs as part of the Smart & Connected Rural Manufacturing initiative, Carbon will donate 3-D printers and software worth over $500,000.

Others still have committed to work with our initiatives to train and hire participants.