The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development

The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development (UACED) was founded and approved by the Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System in 1989 as an economic outreach unit. For thirty-six years the center has utilized customized project teams to successfully provide technical assistance to rural elected officials, regional, state and federal agencies to grow the state economy. We take an asset-based planning approach to help municipalities and organizations respond to challenges and capitalize on economic development opportunities.

Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor Recreation in Alabama generates $6.6 billion and
accounts for 65,409 jobs,
​3% of all employees in
​the state

​Source: Recreationroundtable.org
​2023 Alabama Data

Tourism Development

In 2024, 29 million tourists to Alabama spent $23.9 billion for food, accommodations, travel, shopping and incidentals, according to the Alabama Department of Tourism
​
Source: Alabama Tourism Department Economic Impact Report 2024

​​Rural Workforce Development

To date, Flawless Hospitality Training has certified 1094 students covering 50 counties, representing 140 employers in Alabama
Source: https://flawlessal.com/

Click on interactive map to view projects. 

LATEST NEWS
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Photo Credits to Tuscaloosa News.
Modern ecotourism could unlock new Black Belt boom 
​August 20, 2024
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Image courtesy of Alabama News Center.
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