Talladega, AL (August 29, 2025)– Talladega College is proud to announce a transformative partnership with the Alabama AI Center of Excellence (AAICE) to launch an AI-powered entrepreneurship and innovation initiative that will touch every corner of the campus—and extend far beyond it. This groundbreaking collaboration will integrate artificial intelligence, data science, and entrepreneurship into the fabric of the College’s academic and community offerings, creating new opportunities for students, faculty, and the broader Talladega region.
At the core of the partnership is the creation of an entrepreneurship/startup accelerator program and AAICE Labs, which will serve as catalysts for innovation and workforce development. The accelerator will be embedded across all departments and schools at Talladega College, empowering students from every discipline to engage in cutting edge business development powered by AI and data-driven tools.
“This partnership is not just about technology; it’s about transformation,” said Dr. Willie L. Todd, Jr., President of Talladega College. “Our collaboration with AAICE positions Talladega College as a hub of innovation, not only for our students but for the entire City of Talladega and surrounding communities. As we work to reimagine liberal arts, we’re building a bridge between education, economic empowerment, and the future of work.”
The initiative will also support community-focused economic development, including offerings that serve the City of Talladega, the local Chamber of Commerce, and other HBCUs across Alabama and the Southeastern region. The goal is to amplify AI and data literacy across sectors and populations, driving inclusive progress in a rapidly changing economy.
“AAICE is proud to partner with Talladega College in creating an inclusive innovation ecosystem that reflects the needs of students, educators, entrepreneurs, and the broader community,” said Boyd Stephens, Board Member of AAICE. “This initiative will open new doors for collaboration and ensure that underrepresented voices are centered in Alabama’s emerging tech economy.”
The proposed AAICE Labs—to be located on or near campus—will provide AI, data science, and data engineering training that integrates directly with the College’s curriculum, while simultaneously serving as a workforce development engine for the surrounding community.
“We believe Talladega College is uniquely positioned to become a model for how higher education and AI can drive economic growth,” said Andrew Albrecht, Board Member and Founder of AAICE. “This partnership isn’t about waiting for the future. It’s about building it now, together.”
The partnership is expected to move forward swiftly, with planning already underway for the accelerator and AAICE Labs. Updates on program launches and community involvement opportunities will be shared in the coming months.
