The HBCU CARES Innovators Fellowship & Legacy Launchpad is a 10-week entrepreneurship and innovation program designed to equip HBCU students with the mindset, skills, and tools needed to become bold entrepreneurs, tech leaders, and changemakers.

Over the course of 10 weeks, fellows will participate in weekly virtual sessions focused on entrepreneurial mindset, business development, financial literacy, branding, technology, and innovation. Through hands-on training, practical learning, and one-on-one advising, students will accelerate their ideas into viable ventures — culminating in a statewide pitch competition where they will compete for seed funding and launch support.  

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This initiative supports career development opportunities at our Alabama member institutions by connecting and preparing HBCU/HBCC students for career opportunities in the public sector. Through micro-grants, coordinated job fairs, and on-campus programming, we equip students with the skills, exposure, and connections needed for meaningful employment with the State of Alabama. The program aligns with Alabama’s strategic goal of replenishing its workforce with homegrown, diverse talent. 

Micro-grants are available to Alabama member HBCUs and HBCCs. Eligible applicants include institutional departments, faculty, or officially recognized student organizations proposing programs or initiatives that advance workforce development, public sector career readiness, and student engagement. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating measurable impact, strong institutional support, and alignment with the program’s goals.

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The Black Belt Certificate Program provides students with industry-recognized credentials in logistics, supply chain management, and advanced manufacturing. This initiative equips students for supervisory roles in high-demand sectors, strengthening economic opportunity in Alabama’s Black Belt and beyond.

AI Fest is an immersive experience designed to expose HBCU students to the transformative world of artificial intelligence. The program introduces students to Latimore, a Black-owned AI company, while connecting them to career pathways in AI-related fields. Through workshops, panels, and networking, students gain insight into how AI intersects with everyday life and future job markets.

This certificate-based program trains selected students on the practical use and application of artificial intelligence across various industries. Ambassadors gain foundational AI literacy, hands-on experience with AI tools, and exposure to emerging technologies. In addition to completing the training, ambassadors serve as on-campus champions—organizing AI-focused events, peer learning sessions, and serving as liaisons between their institution and industry partners. Participants also receive a stipend in recognition of their time, leadership, and successful completion of the program.

Thrive Well is a mobile health and wellness fair that brings culturally competent care and health education directly to HBCU campuses. The fair includes screenings, mental health resources, fitness demos, nutrition workshops, and opportunities to connect with Black healthcare professionals and wellness practitioners.

Policy Pathways prepares students to become informed advocates and civic leaders by offering immersive experiences in public policy, legislation, and governance. Through workshops, internships, and exposure to policy professionals, students gain a foundational understanding of how to shape equitable policies at the local, state, and national levels.