Turning Ideas Into Action: SPARK Launches to Support Local Entrepreneurs in North Alabama

gener8tor and Apollo Foundation support innovation and entrepreneurship in Huntsville in partnership with Innovate Alabama

HUNTSVILLE, AL - gener8tor is proud to announce the launch of SPARK, an exciting new program designed to empower innovators, builders, and developers in North Alabama to transform their ideas into viable startups. The program, launching in January 2025, offers foundational support to help participants validate their ideas, create minimum viable products (MVPs), and prepare for pre-accelerator opportunities. SPARK is dedicated to providing local startups and early-stage companies with the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to turn their ideas into thriving businesses.

Starting January/2025, the SPARK program will offer a 7-week immersive experience, combining personalized coaching, hands-on workshops, and access to a powerful network of industry leaders and mentors. Entrepreneurs selected for the program will gain invaluable insights into business development, product-market fit, and growth strategies tailored to their unique needs.

SPARK fills a critical gap in the entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting entrepreneurs who have a business idea but need help validating and launching it to the market, complementing Huntsville’s established gBETA program, which focuses on companies with traction and looking to raise capital.

"SPARK is all about turning big ideas into tangible realities," said Rochelle Silveira, Director. "This program gives entrepreneurs the tools and resources to take the first crucial steps toward building scalable startups in North Alabama."

Key highlights of the SPARK program:

• Timeframe: 7 weeks (January 23 - March 14, 2025)

• Format: In-person program in Huntsville, AL with 4 hours of weekly programming

• Eligibility: Open to entrepreneurs with venture-backable ideas based in North Alabama

• Hands-On Workshops: Participants will dive deep into critical areas such as business strategy, marketing, and fundraising.

• Mentorship: Entrepreneurs will be introduced to experienced mentors who provide tailored guidance and feedback.

• Pitch Opportunity: A culminating showcase event will give participants the chance to present their businesses to the community. 

Participants will benefit from weekly workshops, mentorship sessions, and hands-on activities tailored to early-stage startups. With a focus on validation, market research, and customer discovery, the program equips entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills to take their first steps toward traction.

The program will culminate with Pints & Pitches, a showcase event at The Camp where participants will present their ventures to the community.

Key Dates:

• Application Deadline: January 10, 2025

• Program Kick-Off: January 23, 2025

• Showcase Event: March 13, 2025

Applications for the SPARK program are now open. Entrepreneurs interested in joining the inaugural cohort can apply at https://www.gener8tor.com/spark/huntsville 

Entrepreneurs interested in learning more about gener8tor’s programming and resources or applying to a future program can visit the gener8tor SPARK and gBETA website, or reach out to Rochelle Silveira at rochelle.silveira@gener8tor.com or Sierra Pena at sierra.pena@gener8tor.com. Those interested in mentoring these companies or getting involved in other ways are also encouraged to connect.

###

About gener8tor 
gener8tor is a global venture firm and accelerator network that supports startups, workers, employers, artists and musicians across race, place and gender. gener8tor partners with companies, governments, universities and nonprofits to operate programs and conferences in more than 41 communities across 22 states and two countries. Fast Company named gener8tor one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators in 2021 and 2022. The International Trade Council recognized gener8tor as the Global Venture Capital Firm of the Year in 2022. 

About gener8tor in Alabama
In Alabama, gener8tor launched its first cohort in Huntsville in 2021 in partnership with RCP Companies, later expanding to Birmingham. In 2022, gener8tor partnered with HudsonAlpha and later expanded to Mobile, partnering with Innovation Portal.

In total, gener8tor operates 8 programs in the State. 3 Investment Accelerator programs, HudsonAlpha AgTech Accelerator powered by gener8tor in Huntsville, AL, and Prosper HealthTech Accelerator and Bronze Valley Accelerator powered by gener8tor in Birmingham, AL; and 4 gBETA Programs (Huntsville, Gulf Coast in Mobile, Prosper and Bronze Valley in Birmingham), and 1 gAlpha Program (Bronze Valley). Learn more about gener8tor’s programs in Alabama here.

About SPARK 
SPARK is a venture-creation program powered by gener8tor, designed to empower builders, developers, and innovators in North Alabama to bring their startup ideas to life. Focused on foundational support, SPARK provides participants with resources, mentorship, and workshops to validate their ideas, launch minimum viable products (MVPs), and prepare for the next steps in their entrepreneurial journey. This program is completely free and equity-free, offering access to a dynamic network of mentors and resources that reflect gener8tor’s commitment to supporting inclusive, transformative growth in every community.

About Innovate Alabama
Innovate Alabama is Alabama’s first statewide public-private partnership focused on entrepreneurship, technology and innovation with a mission to help innovators grow roots here in Alabama. Innovate Alabama was established to implement the initiatives and recommendations set forth in the Alabama Innovation Commission’s report, including smart policy solutions that will create a more resilient, inclusive and robust economy to remain competitive in a 21st-century world. With founding CEO Cynthia Crutchfield leading the charge, Innovate Alabama is also made up of a board of 11 innovation leaders appointed by Gov. Ivey, collaborating across sectors to advance industries, drive technology and facilitate an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. Learn more about Innovate Alabama at www.innovatealabama.org? 

About Apollo Foundation
Apollo Foundation’s  actions are deeply rooted in authentic aspirations. We’re building a legacy on Huntsville’s history of consistent innovation accompanied by associates and partners committed to bettering the world through action-based strategies. This approach is not just about business; it's a commitment to generating enduring positive change within the communities we serve. Launched by RCP in 2021 as the MidCity Accelerator Foundation, the now-named Apollo Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit company is dedicated to broadening opportunities within the workplace, marketplace, and all those who strive for a better world. Inside that mission, our focus is nurturing and advancing opportunities for underrepresented individuals, artists, creatives, businesses, and entrepreneurs.

About RCP Companies
RCP Companies is an Alabama-based real estate firm that provides acquisition, development and asset management services. RCP is dedicated to creating vibrant and creative public spaces that are carefully conceived to inspire social interaction and memorable experiences – well built, experiential environments where people want to live, learn, work, play and stay. As a developer of innovative places, RCP focuses on community empowerment and improved quality of life for the residents, visitors and surrounding neighborhoods. The company is currently master developing projects totaling more than $900 million.  More information available at www.rcpcompanies.com.