Applications are open for the second round of Innovate Alabama’s supplemental grant program, aimed at supporting the state’s entrepreneurs and innovators.

The state’s public-private partnership focused on technology, innovation and entrepreneurship, Innovate Alabama is aimed at creating a nexus of tech startups, with particular attention to underrepresented groups, such as women, minority and rural founders.

Cynthia Crutchfield became its first CEO in December.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by 5 p.m. Feb. 17. Award notifications for the second round of funding begin in March.

Eligible applicants must have had an active Phase I or Phase II SBIR or STTR grant on July 1, 2021, or later. Phase I recipients are eligible to apply for 50% of their award up to $100,000, and Phase II recipients are eligible to apply for 50% of their award up to $250,000. The grants are non-dilutive, meaning businesses receive the money without giving up shares of their company.

Last July, Innovate Alabama launched the grant program, awarding more than $4.5 million in supplemental funding to 30 grant recipients in six Alabama cities.

Crutchfield said the organization is on a “mission to continue fostering Alabama’s rich history of innovation by providing entrepreneurs the necessary capital and resources.”

To learn more and apply, visit the website.