Innovation Power Hours Are Coming to Your Campus — Are You Ready?

This spring, The Alabama Collective is bringing Innovation Power Hours to HBCU campuses across the state — and you don’t want to miss it.

Innovation Power Hours are your opportunity to unleash your creativity, explore cutting-edge tech and turn big ideas into real-world impact. 

“Our HBCUs are home to some of the brightest, most creative minds,” said Charisse Stokes, Executive Director of The Alabama Collective. “Innovation Power Hours give students the tools and exposure to lead in tech, AI, and entrepreneurship. It’s about investing in the future workforce of Alabama and beyond.”

Whether you’re a student or a faculty/staff member ready to explore entrepreneurship or if you’re looking to get access to hands-on opportunities in innovation, this is where future leaders are made.

Innovation Power Hours are action-packed, high-energy experiences designed to:

✨ Spark creative thinking and problem-solving
✨ Dive into design thinking and AI-powered innovation
✨ Challenge you with real-world activities in tech, business, and entrepreneurship
✨ Connect you with industry leaders and changemakers
✨ Serve up food, music, prizes, and exclusive swag

 

You might even win prizes by pitching your idea!

Spring 2026 Campus Schedule:

  • Talladega College – Wednesday, February 11th

  • Stillman College – Wednesday, March 4th

  • Oakwood University – Thursday,  March 19th – [ Register ]

Why You Should Be There:

  • Participate in hands-on workshops, get inspired, and build connections that could shape your future.
  • Plug into Alabama’s growing innovation ecosystem, get access to resources and capital, and receive support in developing career-ready competencies in tech, entrepreneurship and AI.

Bring your ideas. Bring your energy. Bring your friends.

Let’s build the future — one Innovation Power Hour at a time.

Empowering Alabama’s HBCUs, Entrepreneurs, and Innovators.

impact at a glance

The Alabama Collective (TAC) is building a more inclusive, tech-driven economy across Alabama. Guided by the principles of Expose, Educate, Engage, and Empower, TAC connects talent, training, and opportunity—helping students, founders, and communities transform ideas into impact.