News
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10 powerful examples of historic preservation in action
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Historic Preservation, Potential-Proving, Yaysayers
It’s easy to take for granted the historic gems we have here in Birmingham. Many beautiful, story-filled buildings dot the map of our city, their silhouettes adorning our skylines and their façades serving as the vibrant background to our everyday lives downtown. However, without attention, investment and a commitment by our community to prioritize these treasures, our historic buildings and the authentic character they give our city can disappear.
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Why we say yay to two-way streets
Filed Under: Developer, Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Transportation, Yaysayers
REV Birmingham is a long-time advocate for making the switch to two-way streets downtown, and this is something recommended by planners studying our downtown for years. In fact, the team that developed the 2004 City Center Master Plan recommended many street changes but noted 4th Avenue North conversion should take place “immediately.” We believe this project is a catalytic moment for Birmingham – but you may find yourself wondering why that is.
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Introducing the six businesses that call Nextec home
Filed Under: Business-Proving, Developer, Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Historic Preservation, Potential-Proving, Why BHM
On the corner of 3rd Avenue and 16th Street North, you’ll find Nextec, a redevelopment of the 90-year-old, 65,000-square-foot Edwards Motor Company building (also formerly known as the Sticks ‘N’ Stuff building). With experience in historic renovation, developer Michael Mouron, chairman of Capstone Real Estate Investments, began this civic project in 2021 as a space for business startups to continue their work in the Magic City – a function encouraged by REV Birmingham.
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Support new business openings at 2023's final Woodlawn Street Market
Filed Under: Events, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Small Business, Woodlawn, Woodlawn Street Market
While the Woodlawn Street Market is always home to treasures, treats, and fanfare, this December iteration brings with it an added air of celebration – thanks to the presence of two new storefronts in Woodlawn’s business district.
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NiEl' Atelier Grand Opening Showcases Inspirational Journey of Ukrainian Family Achieving the American Dream
Filed Under: Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Get Involved, Small Business
In less than a year after arriving in the United States, the Vyshyvanyuk family, who recently fled from Ukraine, is now launching NiEl’ Bridal Atelier, a custom wedding dress and alterations business in Forest Park. Olena and Mykola Vyshyvanyuk, along with their three children – Viktoriia Vyshyvanyuk, Eva Vyshyvanyuk, and Loanna Vyshyvanyuk – made the courageous decision to leave Ukraine on November 7, 2022. This family’s inspiring story serves as a testament to the boundless opportunities that small businesses can achieve in Birmingham.
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How Techstars is empowering startups in Birmingham
Filed Under: Business-Proving, Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Small Business
Are you a startup looking for a foot in the door? Did you know we have an accelerator program that helps founders begin their entrepreneurial journey right here in the Switch district? TechStars is a dynamic three-month program that empowers entrepreneurs in their quest to discover product-market fit, gain traction, and access both capital and global mentorship. Operating in more than 30 cities worldwide, Techstars added Birmingham as a host for their energy-focused cohort.
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Cala Coffee: The Newest Coffee Shop Brewing in Birmingham
Filed Under: Birmingham Food & Drink, Downtown Birmingham, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Small Business, Why BHM
Amid the pandemic, when many found themselves at home searching for new hobbies, Josh Cosio and his wife embarked on a unique journey – roasting coffee at home. What began as a simple passion project soon evolved into something much more remarkable. Just two years after their inaugural batch of home-roasted beans, Cala Coffee has swiftly taken root, with not one but two locations opening in Birmingham.
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Season 2 of Magic City Match is ready to help Black entrepreneurs grow
Filed Under: Business-Proving, Downtown Birmingham, Events, Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Get Involved, Magic City Match, Potential-Proving, Small Business
Magic City Match is a program that transforms lives and opens doors for Black entrepreneurs and business owners. Led by REV Birmingham and powered by Prosper, this initiative aims to create opportunities for Black-owned businesses by matching them with brick-and-mortar spaces where they can thrive. After a successful pilot program in 2022, Magic City Match is back in action and ready to empower a new wave of entrepreneurs.
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Saving Places: Why the Liberty National Building Matters to Birmingham
Filed Under: Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Historic Preservation
The preservation of our urban treasures is a civic mission that requires a commitment from both the public and private sectors. This responsibility extends beyond developers or the city; it encompasses all of us who cherish Birmingham’s authentic character, its heritage, and its stories. Through intentional collaboration, we stand ready to converge whenever opportunities arise. The current buzz surrounding the sale of the Liberty National Building marks a pivotal juncture.
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How the Big Pitch winner Elysian Gardens is creating community.
Filed Under: Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Small Business, Yaysayers
Nestled within the heart of Avondale, Elysian Gardens stands as a testament to the power of artistic vision and community engagement. This whimsical sculpture park is a place where art and nature converge, offering visitors a unique experience that blends the world of sculpture with the charm of a bar and event space.