BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A new statewide fellowship aims to turn big ideas from the state’s historically Black college and university students into real companies, and to keep that talent here in Alabama.

The group HBCU CARES — Consortium to Advance Research and Economic Strength — is launching a year-long Innovators Fellowship and Legacy Launchpad with support from Innovate Alabama.

At its core, the fellowship is designed to give students a strong start, including a structured, well-connected pathway from classroom concepts to high-growth ventures.

That includes hands-on training, mentorship, exposure to investors and real opportunities to test and pitch their ideas.

Consortium leaders say the goal is not only to help students launch companies but to help them become the kind of visionary l

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