Comeback Town: Huntsville didn’t need UAB to win Eli Lilly — and that should terrify Birmingham
Birmingham’s Economic Development: Lessons from Huntsville
In his latest column for Comeback Town, Don Erwin reflects on economic development in Alabama, focusing on the recent success of Huntsville over Birmingham in attracting Eli Lilly’s new $6 billion pharmaceutical plant. This development, anticipated to create 450 permanent jobs and 3,000 construction roles, underscored a critical shift in perception regarding Alabama’s economic landscape.
While Birmingham has long been viewed as the state’s life sciences hub, with institutions like UAB leading the scene, Huntsville’s rapid triumph in securing high-profile projects—from Space Command to manufacturing plants—signals a changing dynamic. Erwin points out that despite Birmingham’s substantial academic resources and healthcare expertise, it struggles significantly in converting research funding into viable commercial outcomes.
The Waymaker Group’s recent study noted UAB’s impressive R&D but lamented inadequate technology transfer and local startup growth. This contrasts sharply with Huntsville’s strategic collaborations, exemplified by its proximity to the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, which was pivotal in Eli Lilly’s decision.
To reclaim its competitive edge, Erwin urges Birmingham to prioritize substantial economic development alongside community initiatives, emphasizing collaboration among local entities akin to the successful strategy employed during Alabama’s automotive boom in 1993. By collectively fostering a conducive environment for businesses, Birmingham can better position itself in the state’s evolving economic narrative.
Read the complete article here: https://www.al.com/news/birmingham/2025/12/comeback-town-huntsville-didnt-need-uab-to-win-eli-lilly-and-that-should-terrify-birmingham.html
