Shoals Alabama Launchpad Event Grants Support To Finalists

Feb. 23, 2018

Michelle Eubanks, UNA, at media@una.edu, 256.765.4392 or 256.606.2033

FLORENCE, Ala. - Both finalists from last Tuesday's Shoals Alabama Launchpad Challenge received major funding to support their individual projects. With up to $100,000 in prize money up for grabs, the finalists had been gleaned down from multiple competitors during preliminary presentations that started in late 2017. Chonex, a poultry nutrient recycling firm, received the highest dollar amount at $85,000. Store-N-Dry 3D, a company that produces moisture wicking storage containers for 3D printing supplies was awarded $15,000. The event was held at Singin' River Live and with over 100 people in attendance. The two competitors were given 6 minutes each to present their ideas. A question and answer period was followed by the judges. Judges for the event were Carter McGuyer of Carter McGuyer Design Group, Inc., Karen Thomas of Agrin Health, and Eric Dobson of Angel Capital Group. The Alabama Launchpad Project, who oversees the event at the state level, is an initiative of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama and is designed to attract and retain growth-focused businesses within the local and state communities.The Shoals Alabama Launchpad event is a partnership between the University of North Alabama's College of Business, the Shoals Chamber of Commerce, Shoals Shift, and the Shoals Entrepreneurial Center. Grant funding for the project in the Shoals is supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission. For more information about innovative practices in the Shoals area:www.shoalshift.com. -30- Attached picture: Left, Bryan Gonzales of Store-N-Dry 3D. Right, Michael Lynch of CHONEX