Birmingham's Bright Minds: How Local Visionaries Are Changing the Game

Birmingham is on the rise, and it's not by chance. The city's transformation is being driven by local innovators who are choosing to stay and build their businesses here. These entrepreneurs are not just creating jobs; they are changing the perception of Birmingham and putting it on the map.

Meet the Innovators

Bill Smith

• Launched multiple successful startups
• Kept headquarters in Birmingham
• Latest venture: a fintech deal worth a billion dollars
• Companies: Shipt and Landing

Shegun Otulana

• Moved to Birmingham from Lagos, Nigeria
• Sold Therapy Brands for $1.2 billion
• Plans to launch 40 new startups in Birmingham over the next decade
• Latest initiative: Innovate Alabama Venture Studio and Fund ($5 million commitment)

Dr. Del Smith

• CEO of Acclinate
• Turned down offers from other cities, including Atlanta
• Vision: Build a future S&P 500 firm in Birmingham

KultureCity

• Founded by Julian Maha and Michele Kong
• Inspired by their son's autism diagnosis
• Global movement for sensory accessibility training
• Transforming Powell Steam Plant into a National Center of Accessibility, Empowerment, and Innovation

The Impact

These innovators are not just building businesses; they are building a community. They are:

• Creating jobs
• Attracting visitors
• Putting Birmingham on the map

They are the reason why Birmingham's future is looking brighter than ever.