Calhoun County, AL — The Calhoun County Economic Development Council (EDC) celebrated a major milestone this week as the Alabama Department of Commerce presented a check for $858,000. Awarded through Alabama’s Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) program, the grant underscores the region’s commitment to fostering economic growth and industrial development.
The SEEDS program, part of Governor Kay Ivey’s “Game Plan” economic development initiative, is designed to enhance industrial site readiness and strengthen Alabama’s competitiveness in attracting industries. The funding allocated to Calhoun County will support the acquisition and development of high-quality industrial sites, creating opportunities for new industries and job growth.
Larry Deason, Chairman of the EDC, spoke about the importance of the collaboration that led to this achievement. “This reflects our area’s shared vision for economic growth. It’s exciting to see the efforts of our local leaders and state partners materialize into something that will benefit everyone,” Deason said.
Governor Kay Ivey emphasized the importance of SEEDS for the state’s economic future. “Through innovative programs like SEEDS, Alabama is ensuring that every community has the tools and resources to compete for the high-quality jobs of the future,” she said. “This investment in Calhoun County reflects our commitment to empowering local leaders and creating opportunities that strengthen both our workforce and our economy.”
Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised the program’s broader impact. “The investment in Calhoun County not only demonstrates our dedication to supporting local development efforts but also strengthens the region’s ability to compete on a global scale for jobs and investments,” she said.
Don Hopper, Executive Director of the EDC, highlighted the tangible benefits the SEEDS grant has brought to the Eastaboga area. “The SEEDS grant is a wonderful opportunity for the Eastaboga area,” Hopper told The Calhoun Journal. “We continue to see the industrial development from Welborn Cabinets to others that have looked or are looking, and so we’re glad to be able to buy additional property because that is one of our missions—basically to have product on the shelf, so to speak, that when companies are looking for a place to locate or if they’re expanding. It’s just a super opportunity. Glad that the state sees that we all need to have property available for industry.”
Hopper also noted that the funding supported the purchase of over 150 acres of property near the Oxford West Industrial Park, setting the stage for future industrial attraction and high-demand jobs.
Mayor Alton Craft of Oxford echoed the positive outlook, praising the EDC’s efforts. “The EDC continues to do a good job working together with all our municipalities to promote economic growth in our area. This SEEDS grant allows for site development that ultimately will bring new industry and create more jobs for our community,” Craft said.
The SEEDS program represents a significant investment in Alabama’s industrial infrastructure, with $40 million allocated statewide to support industrial readiness. To date, $30.1 million has been awarded, matched by $38.4 million in local funds, enabling development across 29 industrial sites spanning nearly 8,400 acres.
Calhoun County’s $858,000 grant stands as a testament to the region’s strategic planning and collaboration, ensuring it remains well-positioned for sustained economic growth and development.
