State of Alabama and Tech Non-Profit Team-up to Boost Economic Opportunity in State's Most Rural Communities

Groundbreaking $16M investment in the nonprofit Ed Farm with support from Apple and Alabama Power will bring critical tech training and broadband infrastructure to Alabama's "Black Belt" and beyond

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The State of Alabama, in partnership with the nonprofit Ed Farm, today announced the launch of the Alabama Digital Education Network (ADEN), an ambitious statewide workforce initiative that will establish a network of cutting edge "learning spaces" within the state's most rural communities. Backed by more than $16 million in new state funding, alongside programmatic and technology support from Apple and a connectivity partnership with Alabama Power, ADEN will establish future-focused community learning hubs in collaboration with anchor institutions including libraries, community centers, and schools.

"The launch of the Alabama Digital Education Network is a landmark moment for our state" shared Alabama Governor Kay Ivey "Alabama is a national leader in both workforce development and broadband connectivity, and this initiative builds on that success by ensuring every student has access to the tools they need to succeed in our modern economy. We are bridging the digital divide, bringing the power of technology and high-quality education and workforce training directly to our most rural communities, and securing a brighter future for all Alabamians."

According to Alabama Speaker of the House, Nathaniel Ledbetter: "Advancing Alabama's digital infrastructure plays a vital role in developing our workforce and providing strong opportunities for the people of our state. ADEN is much more than just a partnership with Ed Farm and Apple — it is a lifeline for West Alabama and will have a generational impact on the region. This project has been over two years in the making, and I'm incredibly grateful for all of Alabama's public and private partners' support.

Structured as a public–private partnership, ADEN will be delivered by Alabama-based nonprofit, Ed Farm, which will utilize Apple's cutting-edge curriculum through its Apple Foundation Program. The program offers Alabama residents an opportunity to build in-demand digital skills, address community challenges with technology, and create.

"At Apple, we have always believed in the power of education to create opportunity for learners of all ages, equipping people with the skills and tools to reach their highest potential," said Lisa Jackson, Apple's vice president of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives. "We have longstanding relationships here in Alabama to support teachers, students, and adult learners, and we are thrilled to build on that work alongside Ed Farm and state leaders."

The initiative builds upon a strong record of success: in just five years Ed Farm, with support from Apple, has already produced over $1M¹ in wage gains for Alabama workers through its Pathways to Tech program.

"This partnership will allow us to expand and accelerate our mission to grow digitally fluent learners who are prepared for the future of work," said Waymond Jackson, President of Ed Farm. "By scaling our proven model, we can create lasting economic opportunity across the Black Belt."

Delivering a digital learning experience at scale will be made possible with Alabama Power's connectivity infrastructure.

"Since 2017, we've installed more than 2,000 miles of fiber to make our grid stronger and support faster restoration efforts," said Alabama Power President and CEO Jeff Peoples. "We're grateful this infrastructure investment is helping ADEN advance workforce development and educational opportunities across rural Alabama."

ADEN's Montgomery hub at Alabama State University will serve as the largest site in the network, occupying multiple floors in the Alabama State Continuing Education Building in downtown Montgomery. As a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) rooted in the heart of the Black Belt, ASU brings crucial educational partnership and deep community ties to the initiative.

"Alabama State University is proud to serve as the Montgomery hub for this transformative initiative" said Dr. Quinton Ross, Jr. President of Alabama State University. "As a Historically Black College and University rooted in the heart of the Black Belt, we understand the vital role access to digital infrastructure plays in closing opportunity gaps and empowering communities. This partnership allows Alabama State to continue setting the pace in workforce innovation and community impact bringing bold, tech-driven solutions to the forefront of education. This initiative marks yet another historic milestone in our mission to lead, serve, and uplift."

Legislative leadership played a critical role in appropriating funding and convening program stakeholders, which drew broad geographic, and bipartisan support.

State Senator Bobby Singleton, who represents the 24th district, believes that "The launch of ADEN will be a transformative moment for the Black Belt with the potential to close long-standing gaps in access and ensure that every Alabamian has a fair shot at success in the modern workforce."

For more information, please visit: edfarm.org/aden.

1. Aggregated from self-reported survey data of Ed Farm Pathways to Tech program participants

About Ed Farm
Launched in partnership with Apple and Alabama Power Foundation in 2020, Ed Farm is a 501(c)(3) organization that empowers educators, students, and adult learners to not only thrive in today's digital age but prepare for the advancements of tomorrow. Through tech-focused programming, leading-edge learning environments, and innovative tools, Ed Farm is on a mission to close the growing digital skills gap in communities across the southeast and beyond. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Ed Farm is part of Propel Education alongside Propel Center. Website: edfarm.org

SOURCE Ed Farm