Birmingham’s small business community is experiencing significant growth, bolstered by innovative programs and inspiring success stories.
Entrepreneurship Center for Growth and Excellence
In February 2026, the Entrepreneurship Center for Growth and Excellence (EC) was launched to support local entrepreneurs. The EC serves as a central hub, connecting business owners with resources and strategies to foster growth. Key objectives include:
- Providing guidance for successful small-business ownership.
- Driving growth strategies for locally owned businesses.
- Convening business support organizations and advisors.
- Facilitating connections among entrepreneurs to share best practices.
Executive Director Kendra Key emphasized the EC’s commitment to assisting Birmingham’s small businesses with the tools they need to succeed.
Small Business Week 2026
From May 3 through May 9, 2026, Birmingham hosted Small Business Week under the theme “Build Big: Elevate Your Vision. Empower Your Journey.” This initiative aimed to connect entrepreneurs with essential resources, relationships, and opportunities to scale their businesses. The event brought together business owners, nonprofit leaders, lenders, corporate partners, and ecosystem builders to strengthen the city’s small-business landscape.
RISE Initiative
The RISE (Retention Incentives for Success and Expansion) initiative, established in March 2022, continues to support Birmingham-based businesses. RISE offers cash incentives and revolving loans to businesses retaining and expanding their employee base. Notable beneficiaries include:
- Robert Hill, a custom tailor since 1983, received $17,250 to relocate his shop to a new Southside location.
- Bridge and Root, awarded $15,000.
- Acclinate, awarded $30,000.
- Bodega on 5th, awarded $20,000.
These funds have been instrumental in helping businesses overcome challenges and achieve growth.
Success Stories
Local entrepreneurs are thriving, exemplifying the city’s supportive environment:
- The Bark Park: After winning the 2023 Birmingham Small Business Week Pitch Competition, owner Emondre Johnson expanded his dog daycare, overnight boarding, and grooming services into a brick-and-mortar establishment.
- Yo’ Mama’s: This family-owned restaurant relocated to a larger space in the Fourth Avenue Historic District, becoming the only Black-owned, sit-down eatery in the area.
- Foxhound Bee Co.: Starting with a single hive in 2012, Adam Hickman’s beekeeping supply company has grown into a 30,000-square-foot facility, offering a variety of products for beekeepers.
These stories highlight the resilience and innovation within Birmingham’s small business community.
Economic Growth
Downtown Birmingham is witnessing increased economic activity, driven by dining and events. According to REV Birmingham’s latest report, there is a notable rise in office occupancy and visitor numbers, contributing to the city’s economic momentum.
Birmingham’s commitment to fostering a vibrant small business ecosystem is evident through these initiatives and success stories, positioning the city as a hub for entrepreneurial growth and economic development.